The Gregorian calendar lists the beginning of a new year as January 1st. However, families with children are quick to correct—the new year actually begins with the start of school. Our Catholic schools have embarked on the fall session, and with this our students have begun journeying into a year of growth in which faith and academics go hand-in-hand throughout the day and extend into the home. The 34 elementary and seven high schools welcomed students this school year from a diverse cross section of Orange County. The Catholic school advantage is alive and well!
Though each Catholic school has its own charism, the underlying premise of all of the schools in the Diocese is strong faith formation which gives rise to strong moral development, respect of self and the value of service to others. This is in addition to a balanced and rigorous academic curriculum integrating technology and high standards. Partnering with parents, our schools provide a safe and welcoming environment for all. Our credentialed teachers have that special edge—competent and caring! This cultivates an effective and supportive learning environment whether a child is in preschool or grade 12.
Research has shown 99 percent of our secondary students graduate. In the Diocese of Orange, there is a 99.7 percent rate of these students going on to colleges and universities. The impressive listing of these places of higher learning (many of which are Catholic) definitely gives credit to the foundation they have received in their earlier years.
Many parents ask, “Can I afford to send my child to a Catholic school?” My response is always the same: “Can you afford not to?” Tuition assistance is available in all of our schools and each school works diligently to accept all children. It is understood that every parent wants what is best for their children, and though sacrifices are often needed, the Catholic school provides the strongest foundation, next to the home, for the life journey of a child.
There continues to be open enrollment at most of our schools and families are always welcome to take a tour at any that are of interest. School websites are informative and give a living snapshot of the life of a school. To find a school go to occatholicschools.org. All are welcomed to take a tour!