Episode Details

The Catholic School Leaders Podcast
Host: John Mihalyo

Guest: Sarah Schneider, Associate Director of Enrollment, Catholic Schools Center of Excellence (CSCOE)

Episode Summary

In this episode, John sits down with Sarah from the Catholic Schools Center of Excellence in Minnesota to discuss how collaboration, visibility, and intentional leadership are driving enrollment growth and strengthening Catholic school communities.

Sarah shares how CSCOE supports 151 Catholic schools across Minnesota through enrollment support, professional development, grants, and shared learning—helping schools avoid isolation and move forward together. The conversation focuses on the real challenges principals face when wearing multiple hats, and practical ways leaders can stay visible, build relationships, and use time more intentionally.

This episode is packed with realistic advice for principals, pastors, and Catholic school leaders navigating limited time, limited resources, and big expectations.

Key Topics Covered

• What the Catholic Schools Center of Excellence (CSCOE) is and how it supports schools
• Why collaboration matters more than competition
• The reality of principals wearing “all the hats”
• Why visibility of school leaders builds trust and enrollment
• Simple ways principals can use video and social media effectively
• Scheduling time intentionally instead of reacting all day
• How transparency builds trust with parents and staff
• The importance of knowing and clearly articulating your school’s differentiator
• Why Catholic schools must confidently share what makes them unique

Schedule a Time to Meet with John Mihalyo Here

Visit the Catholic Schools Center for Excellence website here. 

Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance:

As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.