All Saints Catholic Schools Network launches in Grand Forks, Sara Dudley named President

Bishop John Folda has announced the official formation of the All Saints Catholic Schools Network, a strategic initiative poised to significantly enhance and strengthen Catholic education across the Grand Forks community. This pivotal development unifies Holy Family–St. Mary’s Catholic School and St. Michael’s Catholic School under a single, cohesive educational framework, with exciting plans for a future dedicated middle school.  

The formation of the All Saints Catholic Schools Network is the culmination of extensive discussions initiated in 2024 by the pastors of Holy Family Church, St. Mary’s Church, and St. Michael’s Church. Driven by a shared vision and invaluable feedback gathered through numerous parent meetings and community surveys, it was determined that a unified network would best serve the growing needs of Catholic families and students in the region. With increased enrollment at both schools, the All Saints Catholic Schools Network will cultivate resource development, shared mission, and opportunities in Catholic education in Grand Forks.  

Bishop John Folda also announced the appointment of Sara Dudley, principal of St. Michael’s School in Grand Forks, as the inaugural President of the newly incorporated All Saints Catholic Schools Network. Dudley, a seasoned Catholic educator with a proven track record of leadership and vision, will lead the network’s mission to enhance and strengthen Catholic education across Grand Forks. Dudley will retain her role as principal. 

Dudley brings 11 years of dedicated service and leadership from St. Michael’s Catholic School, where she worked tirelessly to grow its mission and foster a vibrant faith-based learning environment. Her extensive experience is complemented by academic credentials, including a Master’s Degree in Education Leadership, a Department of Public Instruction Principal and Superintendent Credential, and a specialized micro-credential in executive leadership from the Roche Center for Catholic Education at Boston College.  

“I am incredibly grateful and humbled by this opportunity to serve the All Saints Catholic Schools Network,” said Dudley. “Having dedicated over a decade to growing Catholic education at St. Michael’s, I am excited to bring that same passion and vision to our entire network. Together, with our committed pastors, school communities, and the grace of God, we will ignite the mission, building a powerful future for our students rooted in faith, academic excellence, and community.” 

Further inspiring this new chapter, Bishop Folda has also announced the network’s future middle school will be named for Carlo Acutis. This future facility will serve as a dedicated environment for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders, offering specialized curriculum, robust faith formation, and a nurturing atmosphere tailored to the unique developmental needs of adolescents.  

Carlo Acutis, who will be canonized by Pope Leo in September, was a young, digitally-savvy Catholic who serves as a powerful patron, embodying a joyful and modern example of faith for today’s youth. The Grand Forks community is invited to embrace this transformative vision as the All Saints Catholic Schools Network embarks on its goal to “IGNITE THE MISSION” and build a vibrant future for Catholic education for generations to come. 

The middle school will open its doors by adding one grade at a time, beginning with 6th grade in the 2025-2026 school year, followed by 7th grade in the 2026-2027 school year. Planning and fundraising is in progress for the new middle school, to be located across the street from St. Michael’s School.