Photo Credit: Leaven photo/Lori Wood Habiger Archbishop Shawn McKnight has issued the following statement regarding the president of Bishop Miege High School, Phil Baniewicz:
“The executive committee of Bishop Miege High School’s (BMHS) Board of Trustees has placed Phil Baniewicz on administrative leave, effective June 5, 2025. I support this action of the executive committee for the well-being of the school. Due to recent reports concerning his ability to oversee a safe environment for BMHS, a thorough investigation has been initiated.
“The executive committee of the board of BMHS has appointed Joe Schramp as interim president.
“As this is a confidential personnel matter, no further information will be provided until the investigation is concluded.
“Our commitment is to make our schools and parishes places where every child feels safe, supported, and valued. This necessitates not only immediate action when concerns arise but also a continuous evaluation of our policies to ensure we are doing everything possible to prevent harm. Through our efforts of accountability and transparency, we aim to foster trust and to respect the dignity of every person.
“In keeping with our protocols, our Office for Protection and Care is prepared and eager to listen to you, using a trauma-informed approach. Please call or text our hotline number at 913-276-8703 or visit archkck.org/reportabuse.
“I ask you to join me in prayers for all involved in this situation: our students, their families, Mr. Baniewicz, our school community and our archdiocesan community.
“Thank you for your prayers and for your witness of faith. May Mary, Mother of the Church, protect us and guide us as we strive to follow her son, Jesus.”
Media and Public Inquiries:
For general questions or inquiries related to the investigation, please contact the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas Office of Communications at communications@archkck.org. Anyone with questions or concerns about safe environment should contact our Office for Protection, as stated above.