BOSTON — After 16 years working for the betterment of Catholic education in the archdiocese, superintendent of schools Sister Kathleen Carr, CSJ will be stepping down from her position as of July 1.

“Change signifies growth and change is necessary within every organization. The time has come for change in leadership at the Catholic School Office,” Sister Kathleen said in the April 3 letter announcing her decision.

She also affirmed her commitment to spending the remaining months in her post completing the 2010 Initiative report. The 2010 Initiative, launched last October, is a plan to improve, strengthen and revitalize Boston’s Catholic schools by the year 2010.

Sister Kathleen has worked in the Catholic Schools Office for the Boston Archdiocese for 16 years. For the last six years, she has served as superintendent of the schools.

Cardinal Seán P. O'Malley praised Sister Kathleen for her service to the ministry of Catholic education.

“Sister Kathleen has devoted almost two decades in providing leadership for the mission of Catholic Schools on behalf of the children we serve. We are most grateful for her faith and her enthusiasm and wish her well as sister [Kathleen] moves on to serve the Church through new opportunities,” the cardinal said.

Sister Kathleen said that it has been her privilege to serve the educational mission of the archdiocese.

“My commitment to Catholic education remains a central focus of my ministry,” she added. “During my years with the Catholic School Office and as superintendent of schools I have worked to strengthen and improve our preschools, elementary and secondary schools. Going forward I hope to further the Church’s influence in education at all levels, recognizing the increasing importance of integrating faith with academics and ongoing faith formation throughout adult life.”

Sister Kathleen also thanked those who work in the Catholic School Office for the “faith-filled ways” they “continue to provide children the opportunity for a Catholic school education.

“During these many years, I have been fortunate to work with a wonderful team of professional educators at this office,” she said. “Their leadership and dedication have been sustaining forces during this tumultuous period in our Church’s history.”

“May we be drawn by our God into the depth of His love and, strengthened by that love, continue to proclaim the Gospel message with faith and hope,” she added.

Secretary of Education Sister Clare Bertero will lead the search for Sister Kathleen’s successor.

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