Catholic Diocese of Arlington
Encourage and teach with patience

Following a nationwide search, Sister Bernadette McManigal, B.V.M. has been named Superintendent of Schools for the Catholic Diocese of Arlington.

 “At a time when Catholic education seeks strong, faith-filled and creative leaders, I welcome Sister Bernadette as a permanent part of our Catholic educational team. She has proven to be a dedicated collaborator in these past seven months, during which time she has served as Interim Superintendent,” said Bishop Paul S. Loverde.

During her seven months as Interim Superintendent, Sister Bernadette has immersed herself in all aspects of the school system. She hosted an Enrollment Management seminar for pastors and principals, advocated for an increase in tuition assistance to help families during this economic downturn and supported the unique mission of our schools by working to maintain a strong Catholic identity at the elementary and high school level.

 “Please join me in collaborating with Sister Bernadette to ensure that our children grow not only in age, but also in wisdom and grace as they progress through our schools,” said Bishop Loverde.   

Sister Bernadette has also worked with the Diocese of Richmond to pursue services to which Virginia Catholic schools are entitled through federal legislation, continued the curriculum mapping program as an assessment of student learning and will initiate a mentoring program for new principals and teachers. 

 “I want to thank Bishop Loverde for giving me the opportunity to work with the Catholic schools in the Diocese of Arlington and consequently to serve in this local Church.   The Catholic schools in Arlington are strong in the areas of Catholic identity and academics, thanks to the leadership of former Superintendent Dr. Timothy McNiff and the Assistant Superintendents in the Office of Catholic Schools. It is my desire to work with the staff and the principals to build on these strengths and to promote our excellent Catholic schools,” said Sister Bernadette.

 Sister Bernadette, a member of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Dubuque, has had many years of experience in the field of education. She served in both New York and Chicago as a teacher and principal. In addition, Sister Bernadette also worked as an educational consultant in the Dioceses of Kansas City and Joliet before becoming the Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Lexington, a position she held for nine years.