Department of Catholic Schools Guiding Principles
Phone 408-983-0185 | Fax 408-983-0192 | Email education@dsj.org
The Diocese of San José proudly serves 26 Catholic elementary schools, 6 Catholic high schools, and nearly 14,000 students across Santa Clara County. We believe that Catholic schools transform the lives of children and their communities, and we are energized by the opportunities ahead.
The Department of Catholic Schools provides leadership, service, and support to all who carry out the mission and ministry of Catholic education in our Diocese. Under the guidance of Superintendent Pamela Lyons, our team works collaboratively with pastors, principals, educators, and families to ensure vibrant, sustainable school communities where every student can thrive.
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Our Commitment
The Department of Catholic Schools is committed to ensuring the
future of Catholic education in the Diocese through a focus on:
Communion
Nurturing a personal relationship with Christ and an encounter with one another; cultivating a strong Catholic culture; calling us together into one community as we leverage strengths, build shared knowledge, and collaboratively seek opportunities to further the mission of Catholic education.
Formation
Recognizing that forming our children requires a commitment to the ongoing formation of all those who serve within our ministry; fostering leadership at every level; pursuing intentional, engaging, responsive instruction that ensures that every child is able to thrive.
Stewardship
Embracing our responsibility to ensure that vibrant Catholic schools positively impact present and future generations; addressing issues of equity and accessibility; engaging in critical reflection and transparent, responsible use of data to support ongoing growth.
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Pamela Lyons
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
Pamela Lyons, Superintendent of Catholic Schools
Pamela joined the Diocese of San José in August 2025 following a nationwide search. She brings more than two decades of experience in Catholic education, most recently serving as Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of San Francisco. Lyons holds a Master of Catholic School Leadership from the University of Notre Dame and a B.A. in English from St. Mary’s College. Her leadership advances the Diocese’s broader pastoral vision—Renewed in Christ, Together in Mission—which calls for strengthened leadership, vibrant parish and school partnerships, and renewed efforts to evangelize through Catholic education.
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Department of Catholic Schools Staff
Elizabeth Trela
Associate Superintendent of Schools
Maribel Ortiz
Associate Superintendent of Schools
Marisol Mendoza
Director of School Operational Vitality
Joanne Miley
Operations Coordinator