Striving Forward

(L-R) Ignacio Aguilera, associate superintendent; Frank Perez, superintendent; and Dr. Maggie Harrison, assistant superintendent, pose for a photo in the hallways of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School. (NTC/Juan Guajardo)

In an effort to strategically realign educational departments within Diocese of Fort Worth schools, Bishop Michael Olson recently announced several position changes.

The changes come, Bishop Olson explained, in response to robust North Texas population growth and the upcoming launch of the Texas Education Savings Account, or ESA, initiative. ESAs, a state-funded school choice program, provide funding for Texas students wishing to attend private or home-based schools rather than public schools. Diocesan officials predict the program will increase Catholic education accessibility for families previously unable to afford it.

Among other changes announced by Bishop Olson, Frank Perez, former associate superintendent, now moves up to superintendent. Dr. Maggie Harrison, former Cassata Catholic High School president, has been appointed assistant superintendent. Ignacio Aguilera, who formerly held teaching and administrative positions in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, will now serve as the diocese’s associate superintendent.

Bishop Olson voiced support and congratulations to all three in their new roles.

“These changes reflect the diocese’s deep commitment to strengthening its schools; expanding access to high-quality, Christ-centered education; and preparing students for lives of purpose, virtue, and leadership,” Bishop Olson said.

Strong academics, strong faith

Superintendent Frank Perez credits his educational career path to his wife.

“When we became engaged, she asked if I ever thought about becoming a teacher,” Perez said. “I told her not really. I wasn’t that crazy about school when I was in school.”

Perez joked that his interest grew when his wife, also an educator, pointed out that they would have summers off together.

“More importantly though, she pointed out that I could be like the teacher I never had,” Perez said. “Or be like the teacher I did like, whose class I really enjoyed and made a difference. I’d never thought of it that way.”

Perez first taught pre-K in public school then taught elementary through high school grades before moving into administration.

Perez, when asked about the big-picture vision of his new role as superintendent, stressed strong academics, navigating education in the age of AI and emerging technology, and the importance of staying competitive with other area schools.

“What we lean on, though, is one thing nobody else can offer, which is being unapologetically and faithfully Catholic,” Perez added. “Strong academics is a nonnegotiable, but strong faith, too.”

Perez emphasized, too, the importance of preparing for the ESA program — both for existing and possible new students to come — as well as the urgency of getting out word about the opportunities ESAs make possible.

“We have that balance of having to provide services for existing families as well as potentially new families coming in,” Perez said. “That’s what we’re called to do as a Church, and we're an extension of that.”

Perez encouraged families thinking of applying for an ESA to begin researching and visiting diocesan schools now.

Outside of work, Perez spoke of his enjoyment of the outdoors and love of country, rock, soul, and other music genres.

Preserve the Catholic identity

Although she helped tutor fellow students during her school days in Toronto, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Maggie Harrison said she, too, never envisioned a career in education early on.

“But the Lord gently led me toward a life of service through teaching and mentoring,” Harrison said. “What started as a love for learning became a vocation rooted in giving and faith.”

Harrison discussed her goals for her new position.

“I feel a deep responsibility to help shape a future where our Catholic schools are not only strong in academics but also places where faith is lived and nurtured,” Harrison said. “Where every student has the opportunity to encounter Christ, grow in their God-given gifts, and be formed as a light for others.”

Harrison characterizes challenges as gifts from God.

“While there are real obstacles ahead, I choose to focus on the many blessings already present in our diocesan schools,” Harrison said. “Passionate educators, faithful families, and students eager to grow in both knowledge and virtue.”

Harrison expressed excitement over the ESA program but also the importance of maintaining sustainability, staffing needs, and preservation of a strong Catholic identity.

“If implemented thoughtfully, [ESAs] could make Catholic education more accessible to families who have long hoped for it,” Harrison said. “Allowing us to welcome even more students into our Christ-centered communities.”

Harrison said she enjoys reading and studying languages in her free time.

Passion for Catholic education

Associate Superintendent Ignacio Aguilera said a “deep desire” to help form young people inspired his passion for Catholic education.

“Not just academically, but spiritually and morally,” the El Paso native said. “Over the years, I’ve served as a catechist, teacher, assistant principal, principal, and now in diocesan leadership. “Each role has strengthened my belief in the transformative power of our Catholic schools.”

Aguilera said he strives to make diocesan schools the best in every way.

“My primary goal is to support our principals, teachers, and families so that each of our schools can thrive as vibrant communities of faith, academic excellence, and virtue,” Aguilera said. “I want to help strengthen our shared mission of forming disciples who are equipped to live joyfully and faithfully in the world.”

Overcoming challenges requires both faith in God, and teamwork, Aguilera said.

“It’s essential that we continue to build strong relationships with our pastors, parents, and parish communities,” Aguilera said. “Because our schools are not just places of learning; they are vital parts of the Church’s life.”

Aguilera enjoys studying theology and philosophy as well as bicycle riding in his free time.