Children across the archdiocese are heading back to the classroom this week, if they haven\u2019t already. The atmosphere is filled with excitement as they meet their new teachers, unpack their new supplies and reconnect with old friends after a summer apart.<\/p>\n
As the school year kicks off anew, it\u2019s important to remember the \u201cwhy\u201d of Catholic education. Why invest in your child\u2019s formation in faith and intellect?<\/p>\n
1. Catholic schools offer a transformative education for the whole child: body, mind and spirit.<\/strong><\/p>\n A Catholic education is one that focuses on the whole person, forming children to be the future saints God is calling them to be! Catholic education not only teaches facts, but actually forms children\u2019s intellects\u00a0and\u00a0<\/em>their souls, equipping them to think critically, discern faithfully and pray fervently.<\/p>\n 2. Faith is infused in every subject area and throughout the day\u2019s activities.<\/strong><\/p>\n In Catholic school, faith permeates every single thing that students do. Whether it\u2019s looking at their academics through the lens of faith, attending Mass or learning more about their faith and the sacraments, students are formed in faith to be devoted leaders and faithful servants of others.<\/p>\n 3. Catholic schools offer a well-rounded education.<\/strong><\/p>\n Catholic school students are encouraged to be curious, ask questions and expand their knowledge of the world around them as God has created it. They are formed as whole persons, body, mind and spirit, to see the world differently. After all, we\u2019re forming future saints!<\/p>\n 4. Students are taught discipline and respect for their teachers, adults and others.<\/strong><\/p>\n The Christian tradition has a longstanding honor for parents and those in authority. It\u2019s a commandment for a reason! In our Catholic schools, deference, respect, honor and discipline are taught as virtues for a healthy, holy, integrated life. Walking in the footsteps of Christ, we\u2019re called to love one another, and we teach our students to do the same!<\/p>\n 5. We partner with parents, who are the primary (and the first!) educators of their children.<\/strong><\/p>\n This profound, beautiful vocation of parents is honored in our Catholic schools! Since parents are the primary educators of their children, we work in tandem with parents and families to meet students\u2019 needs and to form students according to Christian values. It\u2019s truly a team approach!<\/p>\n Your support of the Archbishop\u2019s Catholic Appeal impacts youth formation, ensuring that students of all backgrounds have access to quality, faith-filled education and activities. By donating, you help nurture the next generation of Catholics. Every gift makes a difference. To contribute, please visit: archden.org\/GiveNow<\/a>.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n+++<\/span><\/h3>\n