Intentional School Culture with Theresa Rothstein

In this episode of "In Search of Catholic School Excellence," Thomas Boles interviews Theresa Rothstein, principal of Sacred Heart School in Patterson, California. Theresa shares her journey from parent to principal, the school’s unique legacy of multi-generational families, and the intentional community-building that has driven significant enrollment growth. The conversation highlights innovative programs, strong relationships with families and the local community, and practical advice for school leaders seeking to foster a thriving, mission-driven Catholic school environment.Theresa reminds us to first focus on developing the vision, getting the “balcony view” to see where we want to take our schools, taking care of some early easy wins, and then really “anchoring yourself in the mission.” That mission has to not just be some pretty words but something that we are willing to chase everyday. She also encourages us to surround ourselves with “leaders that can affirm and support you”  since some days will be tougher than others but it is important to “remind yourself that you are making a difference and you made an impact today.” The rest will come into play.To get a copy of the Building a Mission Worth Chasing Worksheet visit us here. If you need help really diving into your mission or making those dreams a reality please schedule a time to talk with us today. https://bit.ly/Build-IT-Better-TogetherSacred Heart Catholic School in Patterson, California, serves students in Preschool through Grade 8, with comprehensive, rigorous academic programs in all curricular areas along with a strong Catholic setting and instruction in Catholic tradition.  We have been teaching children for decades.  Students, teachers, and parents alike contribute to developing and maintaining our strong sense of community.  There are many opportunities for students to experience and develop their faith during the school day, including but not limited to daily morning prayer, leading a decade of the Rosary, daily Religion classes with sacramental preparation, chapel masses, monthly First Friday Mass and celebrations of the holy days of obligation and feast days.  Parents are our partners in faith development and serve as the first teachers.  Parents are also an integral factor in the success of the school and devote much time and energy to fund development and community building activities.  At the core of Sacred Heart Catholic School is a staff made up of people who truly care about the students, who are dedicated teachers, and who are strong role models.  We celebrate our Catholic heritage, and invite families of all faiths to join us, all are welcome, and every student will receive and education that stresses Christ-like conduct, family, values and community service.We are intensely proud of our graduates, who leave us well prepared to face the challenges of high school and beyond.  Please visit our school and experience our family.  See for yourself why Sacred Heart Catholic School helps children to grow into truly good humans. Theresa Rothstein has had every role at Sacred Heart Catholic School from pre-school parent to school volunteer, then classroom teacher, to now principal. She has seen first-hand how welcoming the school was, she was compelled to get-involved and called to serve in leadership long after seeing her own graduate move on from the school.  Throughout her time, she has embraced, encouraged and empowered the community to become part of the family and the school has grown considerably as a result of their combined efforts. You can see it on her face and hear it in her voice, just how much this place means to everyone involved.  It truly is a wonder to feel how different the school is from the moment you walk in.  We are grateful she has shared a piece of it with us. 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