Catholic schools have a long-standing and well-earned reputation for academic excellence and for educating the whole child. Rooted in faith, Catholic education affirms the inherent dignity of every individual and values the diversity each child brings to the school community.
Students are taught that they are uniquely created, deeply loved by God, and valued not only for their academic abilities, but for who they are as persons. This belief shapes the formation of young minds, hearts, and consciences and continues to guide Catholic schools today.
While firmly grounded in tradition, Catholic schools also recognize their responsibility to prepare students for a rapidly changing world. The demands of today’s society require schools to move beyond content delivery alone and toward learning experiences that cultivate curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability.
Through initiatives such as Alvernia University’s Total Experience Learning, Catholic schools within the Diocese of Allentown have been able to explore innovative instructional approaches that engage students more deeply and support the development of lifelong learners.
Innovation Rooted in Mission
At the heart of this work is a commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship in education. While foundational knowledge and core academic skills remain essential, educators are also called to spark curiosity, foster problem-solving, and encourage creative thinking. When students are given opportunities to explore authentic problems and apply their learning in meaningful ways, they begin to see education as relevant, purposeful, and connected to the world beyond the classroom.
Advancements in instructional strategies and educational technologies now allow schools to provide more personalized and efficient learning experiences. Through small-group instruction, targeted interventions, online tutoring, and project-based learning, teachers are better equipped to meet students where they are academically while challenging them to grow.
These approaches also create opportunities for students to pursue their interests, engage in service learning, and participate more fully in community and faith-based activities. When learning is connected to real-world challenges, it becomes both meaningful and transformative.
The PA Smart Grant and the Alvernia Partnership
The PA Smart Grant has played a critical role in expanding these opportunities across the Diocese of Allentown. In partnership with Alvernia University, the grant has enabled teachers and school leaders to participate in high-quality professional development and graduate-level coursework focused on innovation and entrepreneurship in education. Teachers have been provided multiple opportunities to learn the methodology and design engaging, student-centered learning experiences while remaining faithful to the mission and values of Catholic education.
More than 40 teachers are currently working toward, or have completed, four three-credit graduate courses culminating in a Graduate Certificate in Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Education.
All diocesan schools have been introduced to Total Experience Learning through a seminar titled “Taste of Experience Learning.” In addition, the grant has supported immersive professional development experiences in which instructors visit schools to model instructional strategies while teachers observe and collaborate.
Alvernia University received $450,000 through the PA Smart Advancing Grants for Career and Technical Education, part of a broader $10.35 million statewide investment to expand access to computer science and STEM education. This shared commitment among policymakers, higher education, and Catholic schools reflects a unified effort to prepare students for future success.
By integrating innovation, entrepreneurship, and STEM learning within a faith-centered framework, Catholic schools demonstrate that tradition and progress are not competing ideals. Together, they prepare students to navigate a complex world with confidence, competence, compassion, and a lifelong commitment to learning and leadership.
By Karen Rolston, Assistant Superintendent, Office of Education.
