Our Catholic schools are critical to the future, not just of our Church but of our world.
They educate not just the mind, but the heart and spirit as well.
Bishop David A. Zubik
Holy Cross Academy is one of five Catholic Elementary Schools that are part of The North Hills Regional Catholic Elementary Schools (NHRCES). The NHRCES was incorporated in 2017 as the first regional grouping of Catholic schools in the Pittsburgh Diocese in order to continue offering families access to Catholic elementary schools that are academically excellent, spiritually vibrant, and financially sustainable.
All Diocese of Pittsburgh parishes in the North Hills region, whether or not there is a school on its property, share in the operation and support of the Catholic elementary schools, allowing each to have a voice and be invested in the mission of Catholic schools. The schools are governed by a board of clergy and lay leaders who represent every parish and parish grouping, giving them a voice and investment in Catholic education.
Stabilizes budget and cash flows
Consolidates costs and vendors to achieve savings
Advocates for financial aid needs
Researches and procures grants for schools
Increases fundraising through enhancements to the Gift Card program in all of our schools
Works to market the benefits of a Catholic education to parishes and community at large
Standardizes curriculums
Increases feedback and collaboration through the Regional School Advisory Council, Teacher Focus Groups, and weekly meetings with the NHRCES’ principals.
Increases and improves technology use within the schools. Most recently, brought the school’s student to computer ratio to 1:1
Coordinates and supports region-wide staff development efforts both spiritually and academically
Acts as liaison between the diocese and our schools and works with the other regions in the east and south (and the newly anticipated west) to share best practices and innovations across the diocese