Dear Parents and Guardians, 

Last October, we introduced our new survey tool, ParentPulse. This tool provides a vehicle for us to partner with parents. As part of the process, each parent receives an invitation every few months to complete a short survey. These surveys will be staggered – parents will receive the invitations via e-mail or text at different times.  Our first survey focused on possible changes to our school uniform. 

You recently received a letter outlining feedback from our stakeholders about the uniform, along with our new policy.  While the main purpose of our fall survey was to gather input on the uniform, we received other feedback that we also want to share with you. The comments reflect a range of experiences and insights regarding the school environment, academic rigor, activities and athletics, Catholic identity, and community engagement. 

Parents expressed many notable strengths through the survey, which we will continue to support and celebrate:  

• Appreciation for the strong sense of community at CDH.
• Supportive atmosphere fosters student growth and encourages involvement in both academics and extracurricular activities. 
• Dedicated teachers genuinely care about their students, often going above and beyond to ensure their success.
• The high quality of education provided, with many praising the rigorous curriculum and the dedication of the teaching staff. 
• The feeling that their children are being challenged academically while also receiving the support they need to thrive.
• The small class sizes allow for more personalized attention.
• Positive experiences regarding their children’s growth and development.
• The variety of extracurricular activities, with many praising the JROTC and performing arts departments. 
• The commitment to service as a part of CDH’s Catholic identity.
• Overall, many parents expressed great pride in the school and community.  

We also received feedback from parents regarding growth areas at CDH, which will help focus our attention for ongoing improvements:   

• A desire for improved communication regarding school events and policies, particularly for new families. 
• The need for more consistent communication from teachers about grading policies. 
• Concerns about excessive homework loads and the impact on student well-being. 
• Suggestions to enhance the college planning process. 
• Some believe the athletic experience can overshadow the academic one, and that there should be greater emphasis on extracurricular activities offerings. 
• Concerns that CDH needs to strengthen its Catholic identity.
• A desire for more opportunities for parent involvement, especially for families from outside the St. Paul partner schools.  

Thank you for your attention to this feedback and for assisting us with continuous improvement. You will receive a new ParentPulse survey soon to gather additional information to support our improvement efforts. 

We are proud of our school and committed to partnering with parents in efforts to grow and improve. 

Sincerely,

Mona Passman, Principal