In the Spotlight: Yvonne Schwab holds keys to school success

When Yvonne became the principal of St. James the Less Catholic School eight years ago, the school's population had been in serious decline. She rolled up her sleeves and, as a strategy to boost enrollment, worked closely with her parish administrator to encourage the Columbus Latino population to attend St. James. She also encouraged other minorities to visit St. James.

As a result of her efforts, the population of the school has doubled, test scores have risen, and the school has become a model of differentiation and inclusion. Students are involved in authentic service learning and are able to see that their own financial situation does not prevent them from helping others. Teachers have been trained to address the needs of bilingual students and children of poverty. The school has expanded its arts and music program, has instruction in English and Spanish, and all students learn American Sign Language.

Mrs. Schwab says, "I work with our staff to develop the potential and the promise that each student possesses. Our children come from Vietnam, Cambodia, China, Russia, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Mexico, El Salvador, Puerto Rico and all parts of the United States. We have children of all faiths, income levels, academic levels, and family structures. I believe that we are a window to the world and this gift of diversity allows us to relate to everyone as brothers and sisters in Christ."

Mrs. Schwab and her staff have worked with the University of Notre Dame's Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) and the Catholic School Advantage Campaign, which has provided the staff with necessary training for the school's diverse population. Yvonne Schwab received the 2011 National Catholic Education Association Distinguished Principal Award.  She was also named a Whitehouse Champion of Change under President Obama's Winning the Future initiative.

The Principals Academy will be offered again this summer June 24-28, 2013. Registration is now open.