MARSHFIELD, Wis. - Columbus Catholic Schools has named Peter Weiss its next president, effective Monday, Oct. 19. Weiss brings experience in Catholic education, strategic planning and social justice work to the Columbus Catholic community.
"Through prayer and a thoughtful interview process, we are pleased to welcome Peter Weiss as the new president of Columbus Catholic Schools," said Father Dan Thelen, dean of Columbus Catholic Schools. "We look forward to his arrival and the leadership he will bring to our community. We pray that God blesses his transition and his mission to lead our students forward in faith."
"I am grateful and humbled to take on the position of president of Columbus Catholic Schools," Weiss said. "As I went through the interview process and met people from this community, it was clear that a deep faith in God and a commitment to serving students and families is what drives this system."
"I am excited to build on the strong foundation of Catholic education in Marshfield and steward the resources shared so generously to ensure that Columbus Catholic Schools continues to serve the families of this community for generations to come," he said.
Weiss comes to Columbus Catholic from the Diocese of Green Bay. Thomas Reichenbacher, superintendent of Catholic schools for the Diocese of La Crosse, who has served as Columbus Catholic's interim president during the search, said Weiss's love for the Catholic faith and his ability to listen and develop a plan make him a strong fit for the Columbus Catholic community.
Weiss's appointment follows the renewal of Columbus Catholic Schools' accreditation in 2025-26, in which the accrediting team commended the system's Catholic identity and educational programs.
Weiss will meet with faculty and staff on his first day. School leaders plan to introduce him to parents and the broader community at parent-teacher conferences and athletic events in the weeks ahead.
"As I begin this new role, I am praying for everyone in the CCS community, and I ask for your prayers for my family and me as well," Weiss said.
About Columbus Catholic Schools
Columbus Catholic Schools serves students from preschool through 12th grade in Marshfield, within the Diocese of La Crosse, at St. John the Baptist Primary School, Our Lady of Peace Intermediate School, and Columbus Catholic Middle and High Schools. Rooted in the love of Jesus Christ, its mission is to instill in students faith, knowledge and a desire to serve others. Learn more at https://www.columbuscatholicschools.org