« back to spotlight stories

CWS Partner Feature: Catholic Diocese of Cleveland

Though the majority of her week is spent learning as a student in the classroom, sophomore Bryce is gaining hands-on experience in curriculum, priority standards, and more, thanks to her Corporate Work Study Job at the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland. She is gaining exposure to state education standards and providing administrative support which ultimately helps the teachers across the diocese.

We sat down with Bryce’s supervisors Dolores Bruno, Education Technology Specialist, and Jenny Miroglotta, Curriculum Coordinator, from the Office of Catholic Education in the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland to hear about their experience with our Corporate Work Study Program (CWSP).

Why did the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland decide to become a CWSP Partner?

Jenny and Dolores both agreed that it was a no brainer to become a CWSP partner since the mission of Saint Martin and the mission of Catholic education align perfectly. Their office has been a partner since 2018, and they look forward to learning from the students each year.

What tasks/work does Bryce assist with?

Jenny: “Bryce is a phenomenal worker who is capable of completing detailed tasks. She created standards checklists for curriculum, created a Google spreadsheet inventory for teacher supplies, and has helped update our standards-based report cards.”

Dolores: “Our office has a Digital Academy, which is a learning management system that the OCE uses to house the diocesan curriculum as well as provide resources, groups and online professional development for teachers and administrators. Bryce is the only other person in the office besides me who is trained to build digital courses in the Academy– that’s how much we trust her!”

How have you seen Bryce grow?

Dolores: “Bryce is not afraid to take initiative! I remember showing her how I would complete a certain project she was assigned and let her start the task. About 30 minutes later, Bryce walked in my office and shared how she thought she had a better way of completing the task. I was blown away by her suggestion on how to improve something I have done for years. Her ideas and input have given us a new perspective which is refreshing.”

What skills do Saint Martin students bring to your office?

Dolores: “We are very impressed by Bryce’s soft skills! She recently had the opportunity to participate in a local listening proess to give feedback prior to Pope Francis’s Synod of Bishops. In a room filled with catechetical and education leaders, Bryce was not afraid to contribute and provided amazing insights. Her soft skills and social skills are beyond that of a 16 year old! We think some of this can be attributed to the professional development training she has received through Saint Martin.”

How do Saint Martin students change your work environment?

Jenny: “For various reasons, our office has far less support staff than we used to have leaving a number of jobs that we don’t have the staff for anymore. Bryce has been able to fill that gap and complete tasks that have been on our to do lists for over 2 years. She helped us get caught up and is a great extra set of hands.”

What do you enjoy most about the program?

Both Jenny and Dolores agree that it is a win-win partnership for both sides. Their office benefits because they have students completing real work in the office and helping to improve processes. Students also benefit because they are gaining skills and responsibility in a professional setting. As former educators, Jenny and Dolores love the interactions with students again and say that it is a way to be involved and build relationships.