Key Benefits of a Catholic School Education

There are many reasons why you may be considering a private education for your children instead of allowing them to attend the local public facility. This is especially true of those who are devoutly religious. However, you don't have to aspire to the Catholic teachings to enjoy the benefits of a Catholic school education.

Civic Duty

While you might not think about it, children who graduate from a private institution are more likely to be involved in civic activities. In fact, in a survey conducted, Catholic school graduates were at the top of those who participated in both civic and community activities. This includes voting, volunteering, and donations to charity. They also spend more time writing letters to legislators than their public school counterparts.

Importance of the Arts

Unlike public facilities, which are cutting art and music for budgetary reasons, private institutions have them at their center. Things like art, literature, drama, tradition, and music are part of the church's rich history. They are seen as a true expression of praise to God. This is why these programs are still a large part of the curriculum. Students attend classes in art and music on a weekly basis from pre-school on up to middle school graduation.

Service to Others

One thing you will find as part of any Catholic school education is the promotion of service to others. It is an essential component of their curriculum. Many schools require that students perform a specified number of hours volunteering in the community. The grade at which these children must begin performing their volunteer work may vary. Younger classes may be asked to adopt an "Angel" for Christmas to help provide gifts to a family less fortunate. Older children may be asked to help in a local food bank or church food pantry. However, all children from pre-school on up are taught how important it is to respond to the needs of others.

Self-discipline

All schools try to teach children to take responsibility for their actions and to control themselves. In a Catholic institution, this self-discipline is taught as a moral imperative. Instead of simply telling students that they need to act more "grown up," they are taught to be "Christ-like." They take "What Would Jesus Do" as a serious question when teaching children about their actions. They are shown to view each behavior in light of the Gospel law of love and the Ten Commandments. They are encouraged to ask themselves if their choices are pleasing to God.

Devout parents also enjoy the added benefit of teaching their beliefs to their children. Catholic schools hold the teaching of the mysteries and scriptures in high esteem. Children learn about the fullness of the church and are immersed in the Paschal mysteries each day. It works to back up what parents are teaching their children about their beliefs at home.

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