''Public districts might want to look at the state's Catholic schools for a model." This quote from Jim Stergios, CEO of the non-partisan Pioneer Institute for Public Policy, is from his March 31, 2020, op-ed in the Boston Globe. Mr. Stergios lauds Catholic schools across the Commonwealth for their seamless response to this crisis, maintaining teaching and learning, and the established routine for students and families during these challenging days.

Public school systems are simply not as nimble as the network of Catholic schools in Massachusetts. Just as in Catholic schools, there are many spectacular, caring teachers in the public systems across the Commonwealth, but pivoting to meet the needs of students in these districts has not happened as successfully as in the Catholic schools. As parents with students in both Catholic and public schools, my wife and I experienced this difference first hand. Our children in Catholic schools shifted almost seamlessly; the work was the same, the expectations the same, only the platform had changed. It was nothing short of remarkable.

During this pandemic, now is the time to learn from what is working and share best practices. This is not a Catholic or private school versus public school conversation. This conversation is about how to continue to meet the needs of students and families during this time, regardless of the type of school -- district school, charter school, Jewish day school, Catholic school or another private or religious school.

Catholic schools are not in competition with public schools. In fact, as the largest network of schools in Massachusetts, Catholic schools provide an extraordinary benefit to the Commonwealth and to local public school districts. If Catholic schools were to go away, the cost to taxpayers and the burden on public school districts would be profound. Catholic Schools are demonstrably good for the students served and for the public schools. During this time of uncertainty, this is something of which we can be certain.

We can also be certain that the Spirit is at work in the world. He is at work with the healthcare workers, teachers, delivery people, truckers, grocery store workers and other essential employees who are keeping us fed, educated and healthy during this trying time. The Spirit is also present in the opportunities that will emerge from the changes required by COVID-19. We must believe this as we consider that some Catholic schools will close over the coming months in the Archdiocese of Boston, as we have seen happen already in the Fall River Diocese.

There will be sadness and a sense of loss as some Catholic schools close. However, we must look beyond the sadness and loss and see the possibility. The possibility of emerging with stronger Catholic schools that continue to lead and be an example. Catholic schools must still serve as beacons of hope for students and families, and educate and engage thoughtful leaders who will serve our Church and our world.

Mr. Stergios recommends that public schools should look towards Catholic schools for a model in shifting to this new environment. I think that is only the start. We must all look towards each other for the best answers to the challenges facing us. We must remove the worry about being right and focus on doing right.

Catholic schools continue to thrive and succeed because of committed teachers, principals, pastors, and benefactors who see the extraordinary impact they have on students and families. They are all driven by the belief that providing children, especially at-risk kids, an opportunity to have a high quality education grounded in faith will forever positively change their lives. This is a belief supported by facts and experience. Catholic school students, especially poor and non-white students, have better outcomes than their peers who do not attend Catholic schools.

There was an empty tomb on Easter morning, but that was not the end. In these coming weeks and months there will be changes. There will be challenges. As Catholics, we must view these challenges in the light of the hope of Easter and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

Stay healthy and believe.

- Michael B. Reardon is executive director of the Catholic Schools Foundation, www.CSFBoston.org.