Are you considering a Catholic school education for your child? Or, perhaps, your child is already a student at
Our Lady of Grace Catholic School (OLGCS). You may wonder why so many people choose to send their children to a Catholic school versus a public school. Below, we’ll discuss some of the reasons why parents decide on a Catholic education for their children and the benefits a child can gain from that education.
What Are the Primary Reasons Children Attend Catholic Schools?
Many parents are concerned when it comes to their children’s education. They want their children to receive the best education possible, so their child will have a better chance of success as adults.
Some of the primary reasons parents send their children to a Catholic school are:
Catholic schools offer a high level of academic excellence infused with virtues.
Catholic schools provide an education in the Catholic faith with an emphasis on Catholic values.
Catholic schools like OLGCS help children develop healthy social relationships and sense of community with a Pre K – 8th grade school model.
Catholic schools offer a supportive environment for children to develop and showcase leadership skills.
What Are Some Benefits a Child Can Receive from a Catholic School Education?
Academic Excellence
A Catholic education can provide your child with a solid academic foundation. Students learn mathematics, social studies, English, science, foreign language, art, and religious studies. Some schools may offer an emphasis in certain areas, like STEM or the arts. At OLGCS, our
STEM education program begins in preschool and continues through to the 8
th grade.
While public school students may transfer to a new school for the middle school years (6
th, 7
th and 8
th grades), OLGCS students remain in the same school building as our pre-school and primary grades. Studies show that middle-schoolers who stay in the same building perform better academically with fewer absences.
According to research, in general, Catholic school students perform better than public school students. For example, Catholic school students tend to score higher on standardized tests in every subject area. Additionally, 99% of Catholic high school students graduate, with 86% of these students going on to a four-year college.
Catholic Faith and Values
Catholic students can grow closer to God through
their faith by learning about Catholic doctrine in the classroom, attending Mass weekly as a school, partaking in the Sacraments, and praying daily. Additionally, the faith of OLGCS students is deepened during the liturgical seasons of the Church year with special activities and events, such as Stations of the Cross, Seder Meals, and Advent celebrations.
Furthermore, a Catholic education teaches students core values to help them mature into Christ-like people. Students learn self-discipline, how to accept responsibility for their actions, and to make good decisions based on the tenets of their faith. They also learn about commitment, respect of others, and service. At OLGCS, students are encouraged to participate in service projects to help others within their community. Because, with a good moral base, students can grow up to be productive, virtuous citizens who are committed to the greater good.
Healthy Social Relationships and a Sense of Community
When children go to a Catholic school, they develop a strong bond with their fellow students, their school, their church, and their home to create a strong sense of community. In the classroom and through extracurricular activities (like
student clubs and
CYO athletics) and service opportunities, students can develop close, healthy friendships with other students. They come to understand that everyone is unique and valuable regardless of their cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.
Supportive Environment
A Catholic school provides a safe, supportive environment for students – one that is a Christ-centered zone. Parents often take a more active role in their children’s education. They volunteer countless hours to their children’s schools – helping with field trips, participating in PTO, and
raising funds. Additionally, parents support their children by attending and participating in school programs and events.
Should I Send My Child to OLGCS?
The best way to know if a Catholic school education and OLGCS is right for your child is to schedule a visit. You’ll have an opportunity to see the school and visit a classroom to get a feel for the place. You can meet and talk with the administrators and teachers to
get to know them. Also, you can learn more about our STEM program and the extracurricular activities we offer. You’re welcome to attend one of our Open Houses or to schedule a family tour. We also can offer your child the opportunity to shadow a current student during school to see what they think about OLGCS. Contact Terra Olson at
[email protected] to schedule a visit.
Chances are good once you visit, you’ll see all the benefits that a Catholic school education can offer your child at OLGCS!
- Elaine of the Our Lady of Grace Catholic School Blog Team