4 Myths about Catholic School

If you recently began researching private schools in Orlando, you undoubtedly discovered the dozens of Catholic schools within the Diocese of Orlando. Many families who are not Catholic by faith may incorrectly believe Catholic schools are only for families who attend a Catholic church. This is one of many myths concerning Catholic schools. Below are others that we want to dispel as you discover how appropriate a Catholic education is for almost every student.Myth 1You have to be rich to afford a Catholic education. The TruthCatholic schools are renowned for the sheer variety of students with different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Our schools offer need-based financial aid and scholarships that can lower the price of a Catholic education substantially. We also offer tuition reductions for Catholic families and families who enroll more than one child in our schools in most of our schools.Myth 2Catholic schools focus only on academics. The TruthA Catholic education is truly well rounded, with teachers developing their students’ minds, bodies, and spirits. The rigorous academic program is integrated with faith and athletics, both within the regular school day and as extracurricular sports teams. Children are taught to be moral citizens capable of taking on a global perspective.Myth 3Catholic classes are all taught by nuns and priests. The TruthAlthough our teachers are role models of the Catholic faith, the majority are laypeople. Most of our educators have earned an advanced degree in teaching and have a solid understanding of the Catholic faith and teaching. The interweaving of religion in most school lessons gives students a strong faith formation outside their religion classes. Myth 4Catholic students are not exposed to the outside world. The TruthMany believe that when the school doors close in the morning, students remain immersed in Catholicism throughout the day only to emerge in the afternoon to a completely different scenario in the “real” world. Instead, one of the cornerstones of a Catholic education is service, and students regularly volunteer at food banks, nursing homes, and with other organizations to serve those in need. Our students take on school-wide and classroom volunteer projects and use their time and talents within the community to learn how to help others. There are myriad advantages to enrolling your child in a Catholic school. Approximately 99 percent of Catholic-school graduates enter post-secondary education, compared to the 85 percent of public school students who enter college. Catholic graduates are also more likely to vote, perform community service, and graduate with an advanced degree. Give your child the advantage of a Catholic education by enrolling her in one of the Diocese of Orlando’s private schools. Contact the Diocese at 407-246-4800 to learn how to enroll your child, and read our blogs for information pertaining to our schools and educational philosophy.