Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Need to Know About FIRE Foundation of Wichita
What is the history of FIRE Foundation?
The FIRE Foundation (Foundation for Inclusive Religious Education) was founded nearly 30 years ago in the Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph, Missouri, by a group of dedicated parent advocates who believed every child deserves access to a Catholic education alongside their peers. Since then, FIRE has grown into a national network with twelve affiliate foundations, including FIRE Wichita, established in September 2024.
FIRE Wichita was founded by two passionate parents whose children with significant special needs are already included in Wichita Catholic schools. Their vision is to build a culture of belonging where all children—regardless of ability—can experience a quality, faith-filled education.
Our mission also extends to supporting teachers and administrators, providing the tools, training, and encouragement they need to welcome and teach all learners in inclusive Catholic classrooms.
How does the mission of FIRE Foundation of Wichita differ from the Holy Family Special Needs Foundation (HFSNF)?
The FIRE Foundation of Wichita is a parent-founded, independent 501(c)(3). Our mission focuses exclusively on Catholic school inclusion, particularly for students with significant special needs who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend a Catholic school.
FIRE Wichita works hands-on with parents, teachers, and schools to build a culture of belonging. Our grants fund staffing support, adaptive tools and technology, and teacher training, often in partnership with institutions such as Notre Dame’s Partners in Inclusive Education (PIE) program, the Learning Research Network, and others. Through our national affiliate network, we also help local educators connect with inclusive Catholic schools across the country to share best practices and learn from successful models.
The Holy Family Special Needs Foundation (HFSNF), a diocesan ministry, has a broader mission. HFSNF funds programs that foster the human, intellectual, and spiritual growth of individuals with disabilities—such as Special Olympics, Holy Family Camp, and faith formation.
I have a child with special needs and want to enroll in a Catholic school. What’s the best way to begin, and how can FIRE help?
Start by reaching out to your parish pastor and school principal to express your interest in Catholic education for your child. The FIRE Foundation of Wichita can assist you in preparing thoughtful questions and help guide those early conversations if needed.
Be open about your child’s diagnosis, current supports (such as an IEP or 504 plan), and—most importantly—your hopes for their faith-filled education. Creating an “All About Me” profile that highlights your child’s strengths, challenges, and goals is a great way to help the school see your child as the unique individual they are.
If the school is open to inclusion but needs additional resources, they can apply for a FIRE grant to support staffing, teacher professional development, adaptive technology, or other tools that make inclusion possible.
I am a Catholic school teacher or administrator in the Diocese of Wichita. How can I access professional development offered by FIRE?
We’d love to support you! Contact us at info@firefoundationwichita.org or 316-992-6934 to learn more about our professional development opportunities. These include online learning modules, inclusive school tours, professional learning communities, conference experiences, in-service PD, and connections with other inclusive Catholic schools nationwide through our FIRE affiliate network.
I am a school administrator or teacher who wants to make my Catholic school more inclusive for students with significant needs. Where do I start?
The first step is to reach out! The FIRE Foundation of Wichita is here to help Catholic schools build a culture of belonging for students with special needs. Begin by talking with your school leadership—your principal, pastor, and special education staff (if applicable)—to share your interest and discuss your school’s current needs and opportunities.
From there, FIRE Wichita can:
• Offer guidance on best practices for inclusive classrooms and school-wide culture.
• Provide training and resources for teachers and staff.
• Help develop strategies for engaging families and the wider community.
• Connect you with a network of inclusive Catholic schools across the country.
Every school’s inclusion journey looks a little different—but you don’t have to go it alone. Partnering with FIRE helps ensure that every child can learn, belong, and thrive in a supportive Catholic environment.
How can I volunteer or get more involved with the FIRE Foundation of Wichita?
We love welcoming individuals and families who share our passion for inclusive Catholic education! There are many ways to support our mission, including:
• Assisting with newsletters, mailings, or marketing materials
• Joining our fundraising committee or volunteering at one of our annual events
• Serving as a “Friends of FIRE” parent liaison with a partner school
• Contributing your writing or grant-writing skills
• Partnering as a business sponsor or donor
If you’d like to get involved, please contact us at info@firefoundationwichita.org or 316-992-6934. We’d love to connect and help you find the right way to share your gifts with FIRE Wichita!
