The Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph Catholic Schools Office is pleased to announce the appointment of Christy Cook as president of Bright Futures Schools.
 
Cook is a mission-driven nonprofit executive with more than 18 years of leadership experience in Catholic education, nonprofit operations, fundraising and community engagement.  Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to strengthening individuals, families and communities through faith-centered leadership, strategic planning and sustainable growth initiatives.
 
Her extensive background in Catholic education and nonprofit leadership will help further the mission and long-term vitality of Bright Futures Schools as they continue providing exceptional Catholic education opportunities for students and families in Kansas City’s urban core.
 
In addition to her professional experience, Cook has deep roots in the Kansas City community and a strong understanding of the needs of local families, parishes, schools and community partners.  Her collaborative leadership style and passion for Catholic education make her well suited to guide Bright Futures Schools into the future.
 
“I am honored to serve the Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph and support the mission of Catholic education through Bright Futures Schools,” Cook said.
 
The Diocese invites the community to join in welcoming Cook to this important leadership role and in praying for her as she begins this new chapter of service to Catholic schools throughout the Diocese.
 
About Bright Futures Fund
 
Bright Futures Fund is a 501(c)(3) corporation within the Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph dedicated to strengthening and sustaining Catholic education in Kansas City’s urban core. Supporting schools, students and families through community partnership and investment, the Fund helps create environments where children can grow academically, spiritually and personally. Guided by faith and a belief in the dignity and potential of every child, Bright Futures Fund is committed to expanding opportunity and building brighter futures for generations to come.    https://www.brightfuturesfund.org/

At St. Pius X High School, the joy of the Easter season was beautifully reflected as students were welcomed into the Catholic faith.

Surrounded by a supportive community of peers, faculty, and family, these students took a meaningful step in their faith journey, entering into full communion with the Church during this sacred time. Their “yes” to Christ is a powerful witness of faith, renewal, and grace.

We celebrate with these students and give thanks for the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives. May they continue to grow in faith, hope, and love as members of the Catholic Church.
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To find out more click on  https://catholickey.org/2026/04/07/the-knock-at-the-door/

Throughout Lent, students across our schools prayerfully participated in the Stations of the Cross, taking time to reflect on Jesus’ journey to the cross. Gathered in churches and outdoor spaces, students led prayers, read reflections, and walked reverently from station to station.
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These meaningful moments provided an opportunity for students to grow in faith, deepen their understanding of Christ’s sacrifice, and unite as school communities in prayer. Through quiet reflection and thoughtful participation, students were reminded of the love, compassion, and hope found in Jesus’ journey.

We are grateful for our teachers who helped guide students through this special Lenten tradition. May the lessons learned while walking with Jesus continue to inspire hearts throughout the season and beyond.

There is something powerful about students learning from one another. Our older students have been partnering with our younger learners for special reading time, creating meaningful connections that go far beyond the pages of a book.

Through this Reading Buddies experience, our older students are growing as servant leaders — modeling patience, responsibility, and encouragement. They are learning that true servant leadership is rooted in service, compassion, and kindness. By taking time to read aloud, ask questions, and support emerging readers, they are helping to build both confidence and skills in their younger peers.

For our younger students, this time brings excitement and inspiration. They look up to their reading partners and are motivated to grow as readers themselves. The friendships formed during these moments strengthen our school community and reflect the caring spirit that defines our Catholic schools.
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We are proud of our students for embracing opportunities to serve and lead. Through simple acts like sharing a story, they are truly letting their light shine. 💡

  Catholic Schools Week is a special time for our school communities to come together and celebrate the gift of Catholic education. Rooted in faith and guided by Christ, our schools strive each day to nurture the whole child—academically, spiritually, and socially.

  Throughout the week, we honor our dedicated teachers and staff, recognize our amazing students, and thank our families for partnering with us in faith-filled learning. From classroom activities and prayer services to service projects and school spirit days, Catholic Schools Week highlights what makes Catholic education truly unique.

   At the heart of everything we do is our mission to form disciples, inspire excellence, and encourage service to others. We are proud to provide an environment where students grow in knowledge, deepen their relationship with God, and learn to share His love with the world.

Thank you for being part of our Catholic school family. Together, we continue to let our light shine!

Looking for the right school for your child?

A Catholic School Open House is the perfect opportunity to discover what makes our schools a great choice. Experience strong academics, faith-filled learning, and a welcoming community dedicated to educating the whole child.

Join us for an upcoming Open House and see why Catholic education makes a lasting difference.

Cathedral School, St. Joseph - January 27 from 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm.
Holy Rosary, Clinton - February 6 from 9 am to 11 am 
Our Lady of Hope, Kansas City - January 24 from 10 am to noon.
Our Lady of the Presentation, Lee's Summit - February 24 at 5 pm.
St. James, Liberty - January 24 from 6 pm - 7 pm.
St. James, St. Joseph - February 4 at 3:30 pm.
St. Peters, Kansas City - January 25 from 10 am to noon.
St. Regis Academy - February 12 from 6 pm to 7:30 pm.
St. Therese, Kansas City North - January 21 at 8:30 am.
St. Thomas More, Kansas City - January 25 from 10 am to noon.
Visitation, Kansas City - January 24 from 10 am to noon.

The Feast of the Epiphany celebrates the moment when the Magi followed the star and encountered the Christ Child, revealing Jesus as the Light of the world for all nations. This cherished tradition invites us to reflect on our own journey of faith—seeking Christ with open hearts, offering our gifts in service, and recognizing God’s presence in our daily lives. As we celebrate Epiphany, may we be inspired to follow Christ’s light and share His love and hope with our school and parish community throughout the year. ✨  

This week, we celebrate the mission, joy, and purpose found in our Catholic schools. Want to know what makes teaching in our Catholic schools so special? Listen to Mr. Gardner share why he chooses to teach here — where faith, community, and academic excellence come together each day. 

If you’re searching for a place where your child can grow in knowledge and in faith, now is the perfect time to explore our schools.
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📍 Find a Catholic school near you and discover the difference!  www.catholicschoolsystem.net/school-locations.html

St. Joseph Catholic Academy (SJCA) announced a new Direct Admission Partnership with Missouri Wester State University (MoWest), offering students an even clearer path from high school to college.

Through this partnership, qualifying Bishop LeBlond seniors will receive guaranteed admission to MoWest upon graduation, making it easier than ever to continue their education close to home.  The program recognizes students' hard work and academic success while removing barriers to the next step of their educational journey.  

Together, we are helping students build bright futures - grounded in faith, guided by purpose and strengthened through education.  

Read more at: bit.ly/47tjyED