Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

ORLANDO — On July 1, 2024, Dr. Erika Wikstrom will assume the role of Secretary for Education/Superintendent of Catholic Schools. A respected educator, Wikstrom specializes in developing curricula and instructional designs tailored to students' diverse needs through the perspective of Catholic faith.

Wikstrom's career with the Diocese of Orlando Catholic Schools began in 2013 at Bishop Moore Catholic School, where she initially served as an English and advanced placement art history teacher. She was later named the school's director of instruction before becoming principal at Trinity High School. After three years, she returned to Orlando in 2020 to serve as principal of Bishop Moore.

Her experience extends beyond the diocese; she has taught in Orange County Public Schools and the Upward Bound Program in Orlando and served as an adjunct professor at Rollins College. Additionally, she worked as an elementary teacher and middle school program director for Montessori at Roseborough in Mount Dora.

Wikstrom holds a bachelor's degree in humanities from Rollins College, a master's degree in art history from the University of York, a master's degree in business administration from the University of Glasgow, an education specialist degree from National Louis University, and a doctorate in education from National Louis University. She has also completed the Emmaus Catholic Leadership program at Boston College Roche Center and studied at Harvard University Graduate School of Education.

A member of St. Margaret Mary Parish in Winter Park, Wikstrom serves on several community and professional boards. As she steps into her new role, she aims to build on Henry Fortier's foundation while embracing innovation to address evolving educational needs. Fortier held the position for 13 years, marking the longest tenure in diocesan history.

"I view my role as a support to our principals, empowering them to use their unique gifts and talents to make their communities the best they can be," said Wikstrom. "As the spiritual leader of our schools, I am committed to ensuring we follow Bishop Noonan’s vision and maintain a strong Catholic identity beginning in the classroom."

"After all," she added, "as Catholic educators, whether we are teachers or administrators, our primary goal is the spiritual and faith formation of all our students."

By Linda Caldwell

Special to The Florida Catholic

June 20, 2024