Schools to get funds from capital campaign

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By Anne Marie Amacher

The Diocese of Davenport anticipates distribution of income from $1.65 million to diocesan schools when all pledges have been paid for the diocese’s capital campaign, which is underway. So far $20.4 million has been pledged toward the $22 million goal.

Sister Laura Goedken, OP, the diocese’s development director, said money for Catholic schools will be placed in a Catholic school fund within the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Davenport.

Beginning in the summer of 2012, a percentage of that fund will be distributed to diocesan schools. The amount available will be divided by the total number of K-12 students enrolled. Each school will receive a check for an amount equal to the number of students. About 4,100 students attend diocesan schools. Local school boards will decide how to allocate funds.

“It’s not a huge amount, but they can spend it however they want. We look on this fund as a beginning for a strong Catholic schools fund.  We welcome growth in this fund with further gifts and also giving through your will,” Sr. Goedken said.

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At Lourdes Catholic School in Bettendorf, Principal Katie Selden said, “We are grateful for the opportunity to receive campaign money that will directly impact our students’ learning.” Funded projects and activities could range from curriculum updates to adding to technology resources within the building.

Chad Steimle, principal at John F. Kennedy Catholic School in Davenport, said the amount received will determine funding priorities. Funds could assist with operating costs or smaller maintenance projects or potentially assist the parish and school’s expansion project.

Keokuk Catholic Schools Principal Laurie Mendenhall said needs at the school range from a new roof and outside brick work to a new driveway. The school board has not discussed how funding might be allocated.

Julie Delaney, principal at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School in Davenport, said the amount of money received and when it is distributed will determine how it is spent. Needs range from building expansion and renovation to technology. The school board will discuss funding ideas at greater length later on.

Cheryl Lafferty, principal at All Saints Catholic School in Davenport said, “I am delighted to know that we will be supported through the campaign.” While space is an issue at All Saints, the school board won’t make commitments for funds until it knows the amount received.

Ron Glasgow, principal at Notre Dame Junior/Senior High School in Burlington, said the school has needs for air conditioning and technology issues.

The “Moving Forward in Faith and Hope” campaign is expected to wrap up this summer. Some pledges however, are being paid over a five-year period.


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