Encyclopedia Dubuque
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HALBACH, Arthur A.
Halbach, Arthur A. (Staceyville, IA, Sept. 8, 1901--Dubuque, IA, July 15, 1999). A graduate of LORAS COLLEGE, Msgr. Halbach received his theological training at the Catholic University in Washington, D. C. He was ordained on May 21, 1932. Upon the completion of his doctorate, he taught at Loras from 1946-50. He served as the head of the archdiocesan school district from 1950-1953. (1)
Msgr. Halbach was the third superintendent of schools for the Dubuque Archdiocese succeeding Bishop Edward Aloysius FITZGERALD. He urged the adoption in the parochial schools of Guiding Growth in Christian Social Living, a publication of the Commission on American Citizenship of the Catholic University of America. In 1952, course outlines for general science, biology, physics, chemistry, and physical science were developed for the high schools. Elementary and secondary social studies curricula emphasizing Christian social principles were adopted. Supervisors' associations were formed to establish uniform school policy and stimulate teacher growth and improved methods.
On September 18-19, 1952, the first organized program of in-service for elementary and secondary teachers was held at St. Francis School in Dyersville. The Association of Elementary School Supervisors was organized in late 1951 while the Secondary Supervisors' Association held its first meeting on September 23, 1952. Because suitable material in Iowa history was unavailable, Father Halbach appointed a committee to prepare a study guide for the archdiocesan schools incorporating the principles of Christian social living.
In 1953 and 1954, a Christian Social Living Workshop was sponsored for directors of education, supervisors, principals and interested teachers of the archdiocese. Civics clubs were organized for upper elementary grades under the theme "Know Your Neighbor, Help Your Neighbor," The first draft was presented in 1952 with revisions in 1955 and a complete rewriting in 1964, Msgr. Halbach was appointed head of the Education Department of LORAS COLLEGE on May 29, 1953. He was succeeded by Msgr. Justin A. DRISCOLL.
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Source:
1. Obituary, Telegraph Herald, July 18, 1999, p. 8