The Springfield Diocese will have its first lay person oversee the Catholic schools.
Daniel Baillargeon, 39, a native of New England with extensive experience in Catholic education, including as a missionary in Central America, will become superintendent of the Springfield diocesan schools on July 1st.
To counter declining enrollment, he said he plans to promote the benefits of Catholic education.
"What really are the benefits, because the benefits are clearly there. Research shows our students do really well," said Baillargeon.
Results of a strategic study on the future of the Catholic elementary schools in western Massachusetts are due this fall.
Also, later this year, the new Pope Francis High School in Springfield will open its doors to students.