Catholic Schools Blend Tradition and Innovation

Diocese of Allentown partners with Alvernia University to prepare students for the future

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Catholic schools in the Diocese of Allentown are blending their long-standing tradition of academic excellence and faith-based education with innovative instructional approaches. Through a partnership with Alvernia University and funding from the PA Smart Grant, teachers are receiving professional development in areas like project-based learning, personalized instruction, and STEM education to better prepare students for the demands of today's rapidly changing world.

Why it matters

As Catholic schools navigate the evolving needs of 21st century learners, this initiative demonstrates how they can preserve their core mission and values while also embracing new teaching methods and technologies. By equipping students with critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability, these schools are positioning their graduates for long-term success.

The details

The Diocese of Allentown's partnership with Alvernia University has enabled over 40 teachers to pursue a Graduate Certificate in Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Education. Additionally, all diocesan schools have participated in a 'Taste of Experience Learning' seminar to learn about Alvernia's Total Experience Learning methodology. The $450,000 PA Smart Grant has supported these professional development opportunities as well as the integration of STEM education within the Catholic school framework.

  • The PA Smart Grant was awarded in 2026.
  • The 'Taste of Experience Learning' seminar was held for all diocesan schools.
  • Over 40 teachers are currently working towards or have completed the Graduate Certificate program.

The players

Diocese of Allentown

The Catholic diocese overseeing schools in the Allentown, Pennsylvania region.

Alvernia University

A private Catholic university partnering with the Diocese of Allentown to provide professional development and a graduate certificate program focused on innovation and entrepreneurship in education.

PA Smart Grant

A $10.35 million statewide investment by Pennsylvania policymakers to expand access to computer science and STEM education, including a $450,000 grant awarded to Alvernia University.

Karen Rolston

Assistant Superintendent in the Office of Education for the Diocese of Allentown.

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What they’re saying

“While firmly grounded in tradition, Catholic schools also recognize their responsibility to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.”

— Karen Rolston, Assistant Superintendent, Office of Education (ad-today.com)

“When students are given opportunities to explore authentic problems and apply their learning in meaningful ways, they begin to see education as relevant, purposeful, and connected to the world beyond the classroom.”

— Karen Rolston, Assistant Superintendent, Office of Education (ad-today.com)

What’s next

The Diocese of Allentown plans to continue expanding its partnership with Alvernia University and leveraging the PA Smart Grant to provide more teachers with professional development in innovative instructional approaches.

The takeaway

This initiative demonstrates how Catholic schools can honor their rich tradition while also embracing new teaching methods and technologies to better prepare students for the demands of the 21st century. By blending faith-based education with innovative learning experiences, these schools are positioning their graduates for long-term success.