By Tom Korta, CAO
Many beautiful reflections accompany the end of the school year. There is a simultaneous looking back and forward especially for seniors as they prepare for graduation, but also for the students/teachers/administrators who are returning next year. It is a great opportunity to reflect on the highs and lows of the previous year and make resolutions for a better year starting next fall. I thank God for this senior class and their faith-filled witness to our school. I am confident God will continue to hold them in the palm of His hand and they have learned they can turn to a Father who knows and loves them.
A Catholic education has as its ultimate end the formation of disciples. Yes we strive to have rigorous academics and yes we strive to have strong extra-curricular activities. Still, the heart of our school, the very reason we exist, is to pass along the deposit of faith in such a way that a relationship with Jesus Christ appeals to the heads and the hearts of each student. This cannot be accomplished if faith is treated as something outside of the classroom or activities. To the contrary, in order for it to be authentically experienced it must be fully integrated in all aspects of the school.
This sort of education cannot be a privilege reserved solely for those who can afford it. The Diocese of Lincoln has few peers across the country in its approach to supporting Catholic education. Our Catholic community has locked arms and declared that the health of the Catholic Church of tomorrow depends on the education of its youth today. That is why parish contributions account for roughly 37% of next year’s cost per pupil. That is also why so many generous benefactors have contributed time, talent and treasure to keep the cost of running our schools so low.
Two recent pieces of legislation provide an opportunity to help low-income families have access to a Catholic education. LB 593, the Opportunity Scholarships Act, provides tax credits for those who contribute to scholarships for eligible students. LB 1402, which passed just this past April, makes such scholarships a part of the state’s budget. Despite the victory of LB 1402, there is still an urgent need to fund Opportunity Scholarships for this coming year. By the time you receive this newsletter, you will have received an email from me explaining how you can take advantage of the tax credits in order to help struggling families.
Please take a moment to review your tax return from this year. If you filed a 1040N, line 17 indicates your tax liability to the state of Nebraska. You are eligible for a dollar-for-dollar tax credit up to half of line 17 (capped at $100,000 per individual). When you file your 2024 taxes, you will get this money returned as a tax credit. Please speak with your tax advisor if you have any questions.
Offering a Catholic education to every Catholic student who wants it is a benefit to the entire Church. Please join me in helping make this a reality for those who cannot otherwise afford it. God bless!
