The Madeleine Choir School’s 30th year sees new electives program, facilities, faculty

Friday, Aug. 29, 2025

Jennifer Payne

As the doors open for the 2025–2026 school year, The Madeleine Choir School is entering a season of historic “New Beginnings.” From the appointment of a new middle school principal, to the launch of a middle school electives program, a newly appointed athletic director, a state-of-the-art field house and a brand-new early childhood development center, the energy on campus is full of possibility and promise.

A New Principal, A Renewed Vision for Middle School

Joining the leadership team this fall is Matthew Douglas, who steps into the role of middle school principal with a deep commitment to faith and community. “The mission of The Madeleine Choir School particularly resonates with me at this point in my life – its vision to inspire young people to become engaged scholars, effective communicators, dedicated liturgical musicians and responsible global citizens is inspiring to someone who has made their career in Catholic education,” he said. “This enduring commitment shows that the school is well-positioned to nurture the next generation of Christ-centered leaders.”

A historian by training, Douglas is completing a Ph.D. in 17th-century history. He brings a wealth of teaching experience across all levels of education – middle school, high school and college – and combines academic expertise with a deep commitment to Catholic education.

“My goals this year are simple,” he said. “To celebrate 30 years of this school as a cornerstone of the cathedral community, to continue a legacy of academic innovation with a diverse and talented faculty, and to remind myself every day of the privilege of walking alongside our students during these formative years.”

He also looks forward to enriching the middle school experience through a new electives program, offering students opportunities to explore courses like robotics, American Sign Language, drama and yoga. “Our students are being nurtured as whole people – scholars, athletes, musicians and leaders who are using their God-given gifts in service to others.”

A Fresh Start in Athletics

This year also marks the arrival of a new athletic director and physical education instructor, Mary Ann Falcosky, who brings a vision for expanding student athletics in a meaningful way. With the opening of the L.S. Skaggs Field House, students will benefit from upgraded facilities that support both competitive sports and physical education. From basketball games to dance classes, the new space reflects the school’s commitment to student wellness and teamwork.

With experience as a physical education instructor in Catholic schools, Falcosky most recently served as the associate head coach of the University of San Diego’s women’s basketball team. Since 2005, she has guided and coached collegiate student-athletes across the full spectrum of athletic and life skills. She brings a great passion and vision for expanding and developing the competitive sporting and athletic programs at the cathedral school, filling Skaggs Field House in Hitzelberger Hall with opportunities for our scholar-artist-athletes, alumni and adults.

Planting Seeds: Early Childhood Development Center Now Open

Even The Madeleine Choir School’s youngest learners are part of this anniversary year. The new Emma Eccles Jones Early Childhood Development Center is open, welcoming three classes of PreK-3 and PreK-4 students into classrooms designed for play, exploration and faith-filled beginnings. The center reflects the school’s mission to serve children at every stage of development and to create a joyful environment where curiosity and compassion take root early.

Rooted in Tradition, Reaching Toward the Future

While attending the annual Summer Choir Camp, Principal Douglas reflected on what makes the choir school such a unique place.

“From the choir loft to the classroom, this community has welcomed me with open arms,” he said. “This is a school where Christ’s love is lived daily, and where tradition meets innovation in beautiful ways. To say I’m blessed is an understatement.”