List of Services

• Travis Washko - President Travis Washko, president of the Erie Catholic School System, brings a global perspective and deep Pennsylvania roots to his leadership in education. With over two decades of experience guiding teams and organizations in both the United States and abroad, he has built a reputation as a leader committed to service, formation, and excellence. Prior to joining Erie Catholic, Travis served in senior leadership roles where he focused on strategic growth, mission alignment, and building collaborative cultures that empower educators and families alike. His work has been shaped by a conviction that schools are more than classrooms; they are communities that form disciples and leaders for life. As president, he is dedicated to strengthening Erie Catholic’s mission, supporting its schools, and ensuring Catholic education thrives for generations to come.
  Travis Washko - President
• Lisa Panighetti - Vice President of Academic Affairs Lisa Panighetti, Vice President of Academic Affairs, rejoined Erie Catholic in September of 2023. From 2014-2017, Lisa served as the Principal of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and St. Boniface School. In 2017, with the creation of the Erie Catholic School System, Lisa was named principal of Our Lady of Peace until 2021 when she accepted the position of Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment for the Diocese of Erie. Prior to her work with the Catholic Schools, Lisa taught Elementary grades and was a Reading Specialist for the Erie City School District. Lisa has a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, a Master's Degree in Reading and a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership form Edinboro University. She also holds a certificate in Curriculum and Instruction from Gannon University. Lisa lives with her husband Justin and her two boys who attend one of our Erie Catholic Schools. She is both personally and professionally invested in Erie Catholic's academic success and with her knowledge, skills and experience feels blessed to be able to fulfill this important role.
  Lisa Panighetti - Vice President of Academic Affairs
• Nicole Reitzell - Vice President of Advancement As VP of Advancement at Erie Catholic School System, Nicole helps donors have a meaningful impact within Erie Catholic. With more than 15 years of experience connecting donors to causes they care about, Nicole manages all aspects of Erie Catholic's fundraising efforts. She has developed fundraising programs for several Erie nonprofits, and comes to Erie Catholic following five years at the Erie Downtown Development Corporation where she served as VP of Community Engagement & Social Impact. With two boys of her own in the Erie Catholic School System, Nicole is deeply invested in the success of Erie Catholic, its school campuses, faculty, staff, and students.
  Nicole Reitzell - Vice President of Advancement
• Lesley Ridge Allen - Vice President of Communications, Marketing, and Enrollment Lesley Ridge Allen is the Vice President of Communications, Marketing, and Enrollment for the Erie Catholic School System. With a background in public relations, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship, she brings more than 15 years of experience helping organizations grow and thrive. At Erie Catholic, she leads efforts to strengthen the system’s brand, expand enrollment, and share the story of how faith, academics, and community come together to develop the whole child. She and her family love exploring Erie, catching local sporting events, and enjoying live music together.
  Lesley Ridge Allen - Vice President of Communications, Marketing, and Enrollment
• John Schroeck - Vice President of Educational Technology With a passion for both education and technology, John brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our schools. As a seasoned professional in the field, he has dedicated his career to leveraging the power of technology to enhance learning experiences and empower both students and educators. As the Director of Technology, he spearheads initiatives that seamlessly integrate cutting-edge technology into our curriculum, ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the digital age. From interactive smart classrooms to innovative online learning platforms, John is committed to providing our students with the tools they need to succeed. But his role extends beyond just implementing technology. John is a true collaborator, working closely with faculty and staff to develop personalized strategies that leverage technology to meet the unique needs of our students. Whether it's implementing a new learning management system or providing professional development opportunities for educators, he is dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. In addition to his work within our schools, John is also a leader in the broader educational technology community. He actively participates in conferences, workshops, and professional organizations, staying ahead of the latest trends and developments in the field. This ensures that our Erie Catholic School System remains at the forefront of educational technology, continuously adapting and evolving to meet the needs of our students and prepare them for success in an increasingly digital world.
  John Schroeck - Vice President of Educational Technology
• Donald P. Smith - Vice President of Finance Donald P. Smith, LTC - US Army (retired), MBA, oversees financial management operations and develops business plans and strategies to support the mission of Catholic education in concert with the President and the Board of Directors. A 23 year Army veteran, he has extensive financial management and organizational leadership experience, most notably as the Commander of the 33rd Financial Management Support Unit, and the Deputy Controller for both the U.S. Army’s 10th “Mountain” Division at Fort Drum, NY and U.S. Forces – Afghanistan. Don earned his Master of Business Administration from Webster University in St. Louis, MO.
  Donald P. Smith - Vice President of Finance
• Lori Suprynowicz - Vice President of Human Resources Lori joined Erie Catholic School System as Human Resources Manager in February of 2023. She is an Erie native and has an extensive Human Resources background with over 25 years’ experience skilled in leadership, labor laws and compliance, training, recruitment, administering benefits and leave, payroll, and enforcing company policies and practices. Lori is a graduate of Technical Memorial High School and Erie Business Center. She has served on the Safety Risk Management Committee as well as the HR Roundtable at Manufacturer Business Association. She looks forward to continuous professional development in her role at Erie Catholic.
  Lori Suprynowicz - Vice President of Human Resources
• Sr. Katherine Horan, OSB - Director of Spiritual Development and Student Services Sr. Katherine Horan, OSB, is a Benedictine Sister who has been in the field of education for over 36 years. Educational experiences expand in both public and private schools. She has served the Diocese of Erie and the Erie Catholic School system in many capacities as teacher, assistant principal, and principal. She returned to Blessed Sacrament in 2022. This upcoming school year, Sr. Katherine will take on a new role within the system. Education: Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education Bachelor of Science, Special Education Bachelor of Arts, Multi-media, and Graphic Design Masters in Education with a Reading Specialist Certification Principal Certification
  Sr. Katherine Horan, OSB - Director of Spiritual Development and Student Services
• Jerry Toth - Director of Maintenance Jerry Toth oversees All Maintenance at our 6 ECSS Schools. Jerry has over 40 years Maintenance and Construction Experience From 2007- 2019 Jerry served as Maintenance Supervisor for Blessed Sacrament School and from 2019-2023 served as Maintenance Supervisor for BSS, St. George and St. Jude Schools until his promotion to Director of Maintenance in June 2023.
  Jerry Toth - Director of Maintenance
• Tanner Verplancke - Athletic Director Tanner Verplancke is the athletic director, a role that leads and strengthens Erie Catholic's commitment to education-based athletics rooted in teamwork, character, and Catholic values. Verplancke brings deep experience across multiple levels of interscholastic and collegiate athletics, having worked with student-athletes and coaches in a wide range of sports programs. Most recently, he served as the assistant athletic director at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas, where he was responsible for supporting and enhancing the student-athlete and fan experience across football, women’s basketball, volleyball, softball, and tennis. A native of Buffalo, Wyoming, Verplancke began his career in athletics at the University of Wyoming, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing and a minor in economics. He later earned a master’s degree in sports management from Minot State University, where he also supported athletic operations.
  Tanner Verplancke - Athletic Director
• JC Kerner - Secretary, Central Office JC Kerner is the Central Office Secretary for the Erie Catholic School System, where she plays a vital role in supporting the administrative functions of six schools. JC ensures smooth daily operations, serving as a key point of contact for staff, families, and the community. With a passion for helping others and a commitment to Catholic education, she contributes to a positive and efficient work environment.
  JC Kerner - Secretary, Central Office