Join Rob Birdsell and Erin Barisano in an inspiring dialogue with Dr. Steve Cheeseman, President of NCEA. Dr. Cheeseman shares encouraging insights on the future of Catholic education, noting renewed hope and mission‑driven energy across schools nationwide. School communities are strengthening Catholic identity, embracing growth, and responding creatively to teacher and leader shortages. He highlights NCEA’s shift toward becoming a strategic partner through actionable data, leadership development, and operational vitality initiatives, including a new national data dashboard. Nationally, enrollment remains stable with growth in several regions, especially early grades. Cheeseman also emphasizes the importance of responsible technology and AI integration, ensuring students develop digital literacy while preserving the humanity at the heart of Catholic education.