Advisory Council

Vatican II and Catholic Councils

Since Vatican Council II (1962-1965),the Catholic Church motivates the establishing and fostering of councils for Catholic Schools to:

• Promote the concept of lay ministry and responsibility.
• Develop ownership and stability for the future.
• Offer financial advice.
• Develop and defend policy.
• Serve as a good public relations source.
• Enable the principal to spend adequate time as an educational leader.

What is a Catholic School Council?

Loyola Sacred Heart Catholic High School is established and maintained as an entity of Missoula Catholic Schools, a regional school system in the Diocese of Helena to promote the Catholic education of the children of western Montana.

The Bishop, as the chief catechist of the diocese, has final authority over the school. He relies on the Diocesan Superintendent of Schools to exercise the administrative jurisdiction in accordance with diocesan policies, state accreditation standards (where applicable) and the laws of the State of Montana. The Bishop also appoints school administrators and members of the school council. Together, these groups are responsible for the operation of the schools.

Just as a parish council serves with the pastor on behalf of the total parish community, so the school council serves with the school administration on behalf of the total school community. Today's Catholic school administrators, with the many demands that are made, need assistance from a group of people who are committed to Catholic schools and are willing to work for the good of the schools and Catholic community.

The Council is a consultative body to the school administration and to the Bishop, subject to the regulations promulgated by the Bishop or the Diocesan Superintendent of Schools acting on behalf of the Bishop. The following individuals are currently representing Missoula Catholic Schools as Advisory Council Members: