In Search of Catholic School Excellence

Thomas Boles
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In Search of Catholic School Excellence Exploring the programs, people, and practices making a difference in Catholic education. Join host Thomas Boles as we hear from principals, teachers, and innovators shaping the future of Catholic schools. Whether you're a leader looking for ideas or an advocate for Catholic education, this show is your guide to what’s working—and why it matters. Be sure to check out the show notes, as each episode comes with a companion guide to help you implement the ideas discussed during the episodes.

  1. 2 days ago

    More Opportunities, More Connections Expanding School Programs Without Breaking the Budget

    More Opportunities, More Connections – Expanding School Programs Without Breaking the Budget What if your school could offer more opportunities for students without adding significant costs or stretching your staff even thinner?  In this episode, Thomas and Becky explore creative, affordable ways to expand enrichment programs, clubs, and extracurricular activities by tapping into the talents of teachers, parents, alumni, and community partners. From music and STEM to study halls, service projects, and student-led clubs, they share practical examples of how schools can start small, make the most of existing resources, and build programs that students love.  Discover how a few thoughtful additions can strengthen student engagement, deepen family connections, and help every child find something that makes school special. If you need help with planning a new program, please schedule a time to talk with us today. https://techteam.fun/Build-IT-Better-Together To receive a copy of the Catholic School Excellence Toolkit - A Reflective Workbook for Visionary Catholic School Leaders,  click here. It is the companion to the podcast: In Search of Catholic School Excellence. Becky Wong has been a teacher, admin, tech coordinator and innovator in Catholic Schools for over 25 years.  She not only assists schools as part of the Tech Team but has been instrumental in guiding the Archdiocese of San Francisco as it navigates the edtech decisions and ever-changing landscape of classroom technology.  The In Search of Catholic School Excellence Podcast is brought to you by I Love My Tech Team.  When technology doesn’t work, Catholic school leaders lose time, trust, and momentum. We partner with schools to restore reliable systems, empower teachers, and create the foundation for innovative learning centered on students. Lead Your School Into What’s Possible with I Love My Tech Team. Restoring What’s Broken. Advancing What’s Possible. Find out more at https://ilovemytechteam.com

    More Opportunities, More Connections Expanding School Programs Without Breaking the Budget

  2. 23 Oct

    The Tech Budget - Planning Today for a Smooth Tomorrow

    The Tech Budget - Planning Today for a Smooth Tomorrow Is your school's technology budget a thoughtful plan or just a way to pay for things when they break? In this episode, Thomas and Becky Wong explore how Catholic school leaders can take a proactive approach to  technology spending that saves money, reduces classroom disruptions, and makes the most of limited resources.  They break down the essential components of a technology budget, including student and teacher devices, replacement cycles, software subscriptions, network infrastructure, technical support, and professional development. Along the way, they share practical strategies for stretching technology dollars, avoiding unnecessary purchases, and creating predictable costs instead of surprise expenses.  Whether your school has a dedicated technology budget or is just getting started, this conversation will help you build a sustainable plan that keeps technology running smoothly so teachers can focus on teaching and students can focus on learning. If you need help with working on your budget, please schedule a time to talk with us today. https://techteam.fun/Build-IT-Better-Together To receive a copy of the Catholic School Excellence Toolkit - A Reflective Workbook for Visionary Catholic School Leaders,  click here. It is the companion to the podcast: In Search of Catholic School Excellence. Becky Wong has been a teacher, admin, tech coordinator and innovator in Catholic Schools for over 25 years.  She not only assists schools as part of the Tech Team but has been instrumental in guiding the Archdiocese of San Francisco as it navigates the edtech decisions and ever-changing landscape of classroom technology.  The In Search of Catholic School Excellence Podcast is brought to you by I Love My Tech Team.  When technology doesn’t work, Catholic school leaders lose time, trust, and momentum. We partner with schools to restore reliable systems, empower teachers, and create the foundation for innovative learning centered on students. Lead Your School Into What’s Possible with I Love My Tech Team. Restoring What’s Broken. Advancing What’s Possible. Find out more at https://ilovemytechteam.com

    The Tech Budget - Planning Today for a Smooth Tomorrow

  3. 15 Oct

    Beyond Fundraising – Building a Stronger School Through Strategic Advancement w/ John Mihalyo

    Beyond Fundraising – Building a Stronger School Through Strategic Advancement w/ John Mihalyo What does it take to move your Catholic school from simply getting by to truly thriving? In this episode, Thomas talks with John Mihalyo of Elementary Advancement Solutions about why school advancement is about much more than fundraising events and annual appeals. John shares practical strategies for strengthening enrollment, retaining families, telling your school's story, and building lasting relationships with your community.  Through real examples of schools that have turned small successes into major accomplishments, they explore the importance of having a clear vision, communicating what makes your school unique, and creating momentum through intentional action. Whether your school is struggling to meet its budget or dreaming about its next big opportunity, this conversation challenges leaders to think about where they want their school to be in five years—and what they can do in the next 90 days to start making it happen. If you need help putting a plan together, please schedule a time to talk with us today. https://bit.ly/Build-IT-Better-Together To receive a copy of the Catholic School Excellence Toolkit - A Reflective Workbook for Visionary Catholic School Leaders,  click here. It is the companion to the podcast: In Search of Catholic School Excellence. John Mihalyo is the founder and CEO of Elementary Advancement Solutions, a consulting firm dedicated to helping Catholic and faith-based schools grow in enrollment, strengthen their leadership, and build thriving communities rooted in mission. With more than 20 years in school administration—including 15 years as a Catholic school principal—John brings a deep, practical understanding of what school leaders face every day. Since launching Elementary Advancement Solutions, John has partnered with schools in 18 states and across 3 countries. His clients have seen an average enrollment increase of 19.6% and more than $1 million in new advancement revenue. His work centers on simple, sustainable systems that move schools forward—without overwhelming their teams. https://elementaryadvancement.com/ The In Search of Catholic School Excellence Podcast is brought to you by I Love My Tech Team.  When technology doesn’t work, Catholic school leaders lose time, trust, and momentum. We partner with schools to restore reliable systems, empower teachers, and create the foundation for innovative learning centered on students. Lead Your School Into What’s Possible with I Love My Tech Team. Restoring What’s Broken. Advancing What’s Possible. Find out more at https://ilovemytechteam.com

    Beyond Fundraising – Building a Stronger School Through Strategic Advancement w/ John Mihalyo

  4. 16 Sept

    Dreaming Bigger - Expanding Possibilities for Our Schools

    Dreaming Bigger - Expanding Possibilities for Our Schools When was the last time you gave yourself permission to dream about what your school could become? In this episode, Thomas and Becky explore why schools need to make space for big ideas instead of simply putting out fires and keeping things running.  They discuss how leaders can invite teachers, families, students, and the wider community into the dreaming process, turn ambitious ideas into achievable first steps, anticipate obstacles, and build the support needed to make those ideas happen.  Dreaming bigger doesn’t have to mean launching an expensive new program or building a state-of-the-art facility—it can start with asking a simple question: “What could we do?” The goal is to create a school culture where people are encouraged to share ideas, experiment, and work together toward possibilities that make the school more authentically its own. If you need help with working on a dream, please schedule a time to talk with us today. https://bit.ly/Build-IT-Better-Together To receive a copy of the Catholic School Excellence Toolkit - A Reflective Workbook for Visionary Catholic School Leaders,  click here. It is the companion to the podcast: In Search of Catholic School Excellence. Becky Wong has been a teacher, admin, tech coordinator and innovator in Catholic Schools for over 25 years.  She not only assists schools as part of the Tech Team but has been instrumental in guiding the Archdiocese of San Francisco as it navigates the edtech decisions and ever-changing landscape of classroom technology.  The In Search of Catholic School Excellence Podcast is brought to you by I Love My Tech Team.  When technology doesn’t work, Catholic school leaders lose time, trust, and momentum. We partner with schools to restore reliable systems, empower teachers, and create the foundation for innovative learning centered on students. Lead Your School Into What’s Possible with I Love My Tech Team. Restoring What’s Broken. Advancing What’s Possible. Find out more at https://ilovemytechteam.com

    Dreaming Bigger - Expanding Possibilities for Our Schools

  5. 20 Aug

    You Don’t Have to Lead Alone with Dr. Vince Cascone Building Ownership Around Your School’s Mission

    You Don’t Have to Lead Alone with Dr. Vince Cascone Building Ownership Around Your School’s Mission What makes a great Catholic school? After 19 years as a principal and seven years as a superintendent, Dr. Vince Cascone believes it starts with strong leadership—but strong leaders don’t do everything alone.  In this episode, Vince shares how principals can stay focused on mission amid the daily noise, build trust through relationships, involve teachers, parents, and students in meaningful ways, and create a sense of shared ownership throughout the school community. From enrollment and retention to leadership teams and student voice, the conversation explores how bringing the right people to the table can help principals carry the load while keeping everyone moving in the same direction.  If you need help with how to center your community on the same page, please schedule a time to talk with us today. https://bit.ly/Build-IT-Better-Together To receive a copy of the Catholic School Excellence Toolkit - A Reflective Workbook for Visionary Catholic School Leaders,  click here. It is the companion to the podcast: In Search of Catholic School Excellence. Dr. Vince Cascone spent 19 years as a Catholic school principal and 7 years as a superintendent.He’s been where you are. He understands the weight of leading a school community — and he’s seen firsthand what becomes possible when principals have the right support. His school earned a U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon award. He’s been recognized as both the NAESP National Distinguished Principal and the NCEA Distinguished Principal of the Year. He also teaches a Master's-level School Leadership course at Benedictine College. "I built Seton Educational Services because no principal should have to do this alone." https://setoned.org/ vcascone@setoned.org The In Search of Catholic School Excellence Podcast is brought to you by I Love My Tech Team.  When technology doesn’t work, Catholic school leaders lose time, trust, and momentum. We partner with schools to restore reliable systems, empower teachers, and create the foundation for innovative learning centered on students. Lead Your School Into What’s Possible with I Love My Tech Team. Restoring What’s Broken. Advancing What’s Possible. Find out more at https://ilovemytechteam.com

    You Don’t Have to Lead Alone with Dr. Vince Cascone Building Ownership Around Your School’s Mission

  6. 13 Aug

    Community Engagement - Building Relationships, Strengthening Our Schools, Together

    Community Engagement—Building Relationships, Strengthening Our Schools, Together A thriving school isn't built only by what happens inside its classrooms—it grows stronger through the relationships it builds with the people and businesses around it. In this episode, Thomas and Becky explore practical ways schools can become active members of their neighborhoods instead of simply existing within them. From partnering with local restaurants and businesses to collaborating with neighboring schools, senior centers, and community organizations, they share real examples of how authentic relationships create opportunities that benefit students, families, staff, and the broader community. You'll discover how community engagement strengthens enrollment through word-of-mouth, creates meaningful learning opportunities, provides valuable resources, and helps schools become trusted neighborhood institutions. Most importantly, you'll be encouraged to take small, intentional steps that can lead to lasting partnerships and a stronger sense of belonging for everyone connected to your school. Whether you're looking to improve marketing, enrich student experiences, or simply become a more visible presence in your community, this episode offers practical ideas you can begin implementing right away. If you need help with developing your community engagement plan, please schedule a time to talk with us today. https://bit.ly/Build-IT-Better-Together To receive a copy of the Catholic School Excellence Toolkit - A Reflective Workbook for Visionary Catholic School Leaders,  click here. It is the companion to the podcast: In Search of Catholic School Excellence. Becky Wong has been a teacher, admin, tech coordinator and innovator in Catholic Schools for over 25 years.  She not only assists schools as part of the Tech Team but has been instrumental in guiding the Archdiocese of San Francisco as it navigates the edtech decisions and ever-changing landscape of classroom technology.  The In Search of Catholic School Excellence Podcast is brought to you by I Love My Tech Team.  When technology doesn’t work, Catholic school leaders lose time, trust, and momentum. We partner with schools to restore reliable systems, empower teachers, and create the foundation for innovative learning centered on students. Lead Your School Into What’s Possible with I Love My Tech Team. Restoring What’s Broken. Advancing What’s Possible. Find out more at https://ilovemytechteam.com

    Community Engagement - Building Relationships, Strengthening Our Schools, Together

  7. 30 Jul

    Let's Talk Books - Voices of Reason: Lessons from Liberty's Leaders. A Conversation with author Robert Begley

    Let's Talk Books - Voices of Reason: Lessons from Liberty's Leaders. A Conversation with author Robert Begley Great leaders aren't just good communicators—they're people whose words reflect their character. In this episode, Thomas sits down with communication coach and author Robert Begley to discuss Voices of Reason: Lessons from Liberty's Leaders. Drawing from some of history's most influential speeches, Robert shares practical lessons that can help educators, school leaders, and students become more confident, ethical, and persuasive communicators. Together they explore: Why communication begins with character, not charismaHow great speakers combine credibility, logic, and emotionPractical ways to overcome the fear of speaking in front of othersWhy schools should intentionally teach students how to think, speak, and listen wellHow effective communication builds trust, strengthens leadership, and helps people speak with courage when it matters most Whether you're leading a faculty meeting, teaching a classroom, or helping students find their voice, this conversation offers timeless principles for communicating with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Robert Begley - Most speakers talk. Few connect. Even fewer move people to act. At Speaking With Purpose LLC, I help executives, entrepreneurs, and rising leaders transform their communication so they both inform and influence. Whether you’re in a boardroom, on a stage, or pitching investors, your message needs to land with clarity, stick emotionally, and inspire change.   I’ve coached NYPD officers aiming for promotion, immigrants telling their freedom story, and CEOs selling big ideas to tough rooms. In each case, we didn’t just “polish” a talk—we built a message that commands the room and cements leadership as part of their identity. If you’re an expert who’s tired of being overlooked because your message doesn’t come across as confidently as your ideas deserve. Let’s change that. Ready to lead with your voice? Let’s speak with purpose. https://www.speakingwithpurpose.llc/ https://rbegley.substack.com/ If you want to see how the lessons of this book can influence your school, please schedule a time to talk with us today. https://bit.ly/Build-IT-Better-Together The In Search of Catholic School Excellence Podcast is brought to you by I Love My Tech Team.  When technology doesn’t work, Catholic school leaders lose time, trust, and momentum. We partner with schools to restore reliable systems, empower teachers, and create the foundation for innovative learning centered on students. Lead Your School Into What’s Possible with I Love My Tech Team. Restoring What’s Broken. Advancing What’s Possible. Find out more at https://ilovemytechteam.com

    Let's Talk Books - Voices of Reason: Lessons from Liberty's Leaders. A Conversation with author Robert Begley

  8. 22 Jul

    Let's Talk Books - Controlled Chaos - A Conversation with author Eric Hall

    Let's Talk Books - Controlled Chaos A Conversation with author Eric Hall What if the most memorable lessons in school weren't found in a worksheet, but in an experience students never forgot? In this episode, Thomas sits down with retired teacher and author Eric Hall to discuss his book, Controlled Chaos, a collection of stories and lessons from 27 years in the classroom. Eric shares how creativity, humor, and meaningful relationships transformed everyday lessons into unforgettable learning experiences—and why engagement is one of the most powerful teaching tools we have. Together they explore: How to create classrooms where students want to come to schoolBuilding strong classroom communities through trust and connectionPractical ways to make ordinary lessons extraordinaryHow small changes can create lasting memories and deeper learning Whether you're a classroom teacher, principal, or instructional leader, this conversation will inspire you to look at your school through your students' eyes and discover new ways to make learning meaningful, memorable, and full of joy. Eric Hall is an award-winning educator, writer, and storyteller who has spent more than 27 years inspiring students in the classroom. A fifth-grade teacher in Cheboygan, Michigan, Hall is a three-time Teacher of the Year recipient, a winner of the American Red Cross Everyday Hero Award, was named one of the Top Educators of America, and has received a special teaching tribute from the Governor of Michigan. Known for his humor, creativity, and heart, Eric has built a career helping students see learning as both meaningful and fun.Beyond the classroom, Hall is a contributing writer for Edutopia, We Are Teachers, TEACH Magazine, and The Educator's Room. His reflections on teaching blend practical insight with laugh-out-loud storytelling, reaching educators and parents alike. His unique approach to education has even been featured on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, where his classroom adventures reached a national audience. If you want to see how the lessons of this book can influence your school, please schedule a time to talk with us today. https://bit.ly/Build-IT-Better-Together The In Search of Catholic School Excellence Podcast is brought to you by I Love My Tech Team.  When technology doesn’t work, Catholic school leaders lose time, trust, and momentum. We partner with schools to restore reliable systems, empower teachers, and create the foundation for innovative learning centered on students. Lead Your School Into What’s Possible with I Love My Tech Team. Restoring What’s Broken. Advancing What’s Possible. Find out more at https://ilovemytechteam.com

    Let's Talk Books - Controlled Chaos - A Conversation with author Eric Hall
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In Search of Catholic School Excellence Exploring the programs, people, and practices making a difference in Catholic education. Join host Thomas Boles as we hear from principals, teachers, and innovators shaping the future of Catholic schools. Whether you're a leader looking for ideas or an advocate for Catholic education, this show is your guide to what’s working—and why it matters. Be sure to check out the show notes, as each episode comes with a companion guide to help you implement the ideas discussed during the episodes.

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