Although traditionally considered a small and elite portion of the private school population, Catholic schools are rapidly growing in popularity. The Alliance of Catholic Education cites that one in 10 teens attend a Catholic school. Numbers are growing, though, as more families discover the many benefits of this educational option. Let's learn more about how these institutions are growing in the U.S.
Post-COVID Growth
Lincoln Snyder, the president and CEO of the National Catholic Educational Association, cites that there was an enrollment spike at the height of the COVID pandemic in which these religious institutions saw a 3.8% growth from 2021-2022. This was followed by a 0.3% growth in 2022-2023. In addition to these increases in enrollment, retention rates also stayed high during this time at about a 93% to 98% retention rate. The facilities of these renowned institutions ensured that students continued to grow within their community. While most public schools closed and pivoted to online learning, many students at private religious programs continued their high-level academic program while remaining safe and cared for.
Making the Sacrifices Necessary
One reason that growth continues at a healthy rate for Catholic schools is that today, more parents are making sacrificial choices to value their children's education. After families enrolled in public schools experienced the curriculum that their children were being exposed to during remote learning, families began to pivot and look for alternative options. They started realizing that they may need to seek other options, such as homeschooling or Catholic school, for the health, stability, and flourishing of their children.
The Catholic School Difference
Although some Catholic schools will accept students from different faiths, the schools themselves are faith-based private institutions that are affiliated with the Catholic church. These programs are defined by high expectations of students both academically, spiritually, and personally. There is a strong priority placed on moral values and virtuous living. These values are put into action through words and deeds both within the curriculum and beyond in the community.
In addition to rigorous academic standards, you can expect a tight-knit community where students can explore their talents and gifts through extracurricular activities and community service. Spiritual and religious education is also an essential part of this type of institution's experience, which is a benefit you can't get in public school. These are just a few of the ways that these academic structures have grown recently. If you'd like to learn more about this educational option, please contact Regina Pacis Academy. We are here for your child's educational needs.
