As parents you want the best for your children. Catholic schools provide an environment which encourages your children to discuss and live their beliefs. In Catholic schools, young people learn to question, to establish confidence in their own good choices in life and to experience the sense of accomplishment stemming from individual achievement and responsibility. Families of children attending Catholic schools offer many reasons for their choice:
- Integrated program based on religious beliefs and values which will help your children understand themselves and their relationship with God
- Individualized attention
- Caring, qualified and dedicated teachers fully devoted to every student’s success
- Demonstrated superior performance on New York State standardized tests
- Art, music and drama programs
- Outstanding preparation for success in high school, college and life
- Competitive athletic programs and extracurricular activities to develop students’ talents.
Catholic schools differ in size, location, and environment. Only you and your child know which of these are most important to your family, and finding the right match will open the door to endless possibilities for achievement and personal growth for your child.
Identify Your Child's Needs
Begin this journey by identifying your child’s needs, strengths, weaknesses, goals and personal preferences. Does your child need a superior reading program? Will your child need extra help with writing skills? Is your child interested in music lessons? Is there a sport in which your child participates and enjoys? Do you need an after school program for your child? This information will help you narrow your choices.
Gather Information
Use this website and call the area schools to gather information regarding transportation, tuition, the admission process, teacher to student ratio, diversity of student body, and special services to students.
Arrange Visits to Each School of Interest
Once you have an idea of the choices available to your family, arrange visits to each school. Attending a school function or two (such as an open house, concert, or sports event) will give you and your child valuable insight into the atmosphere and culture of that school. Meeting with administrators and speaking with teachers enables you to gain an understanding of each school’s approach to education and will help you to ‘get a feel’ for a particular school.
Register Your Child Early
Individual schools have an application form and policies on tuition and financial aid. Pay attention to deadlines, complete the applications and financial aid forms. If you have questions or need help in filling out the forms contact the school. Register your child early to ensure their spot in the school of your choice.
The right Catholic school can facilitate personal, social and academic growth, and put your child on the path to independence for a successful high school and college experience and responsible and productive adulthood. Investing the time and energy to fully research your options is a worthwhile and rewarding endeavor. Whichever school you choose, you can be assured that your child will receive a strong academic education in an environment structured to have a lasting value.