Transition Letter
Dear Parents, Alumni, Students, and Friends of Saint Joseph Catholic Schools:
These are exciting times for Catholic schools in Ogden, Utah. We have much to be proud of in the performance of our schools and the success of our students. Formed in 1877 and 1954, respectively, Saint Joseph Catholic Elementary and Middle School and Saint Joseph Catholic High School have been vital elements of our community and important options for pre-K – 12 education. Our schools stand as beacons of Catholic mission and academic success in our area.
Building on the strengths of our programs, the boards of the elementary/middle school and the high school have been engaged for several years in conversations around possible unification of the two independent systems to further enhance and integrate the schools’ missions, and to create efficiencies in operations. This effort included preliminary work on an integrated strategic plan for the two schools. In addition, Bishop Wester authorized the formation of a Blue Ribbon Commission whose charge was to consider the long-term sustainability of the high school in light of current economic conditions and the community interest in a Catholic high school in the Ogden area. Finally, an external review of the schools was conducted jointly over the summer by the Institute of School and Parish Development and the National Catholic Educational Association. Each of these studies has strongly supported the overall health and continued operation of the schools and has recommended that they be formally combined into a unified system under the Salt Lake Diocese with a single school board of limited jurisdiction.
Work has already begun to integrate the two school systems. For the past year, the two schools have shared an advancement team, financial processes, the lunch program, and buildings and grounds maintenance. Moving forward, in addition to a common school board, the transition calls for the development of a President – Principals model for the system as is common in other parts of the United States. Dr. Dale Ostlie, past president of the high school board, has been asked to lead the transition effort. Principal Norm Allred has graciously agreed to serve in the capacity of Vice Principal for Mission and Catholic Identity, overseeing the high school religion program and strengthening the relationships and communication with the area parishes. Mr. Allred will continue to serve in the capacity of principal of the high school until such time as a new principal is appointed. Ms. Nancy Essary will remain as principal of the elementary/middle school.
As we build a unified system for the twenty-first century, please keep the schools in your prayers. If you have any questions about the transition process please feel free to contact Dale Ostlie at (801) 589-0108 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Alternatively you may contact Sister Catherine Kamphaus, Superintendent, at 801-328-8641 ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) or Sister Genevra Rolf, Associate Superintendent, at (801) 328-8641 ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ).
Sincerely,
Sr. Catherine, Superintendent
