3 Misconceptions About Catholic School

Education & Development Articles

If you are thinking about sending your child to Catholic school for their elementary, middle school, or high school education, you may be a little unsure of what to expect. Many misconceptions about Catholic schools exist, and these mistaken beliefs may impact how you think Catholic schools actually operate. Some of these common misconceptions do not reflect what a real Catholic school education entails.

Only Catholics Can Attend

You might think that you cannot send your child to Catholic school unless you are a practicing Catholic. Catholic schools simply could not stay afloat unless they practiced open enrollment. Because of this, they have open enrollment without religious discrimination. One study that looked into where Catholics send their kids to school showed that about 37% of Catholic children went to Catholic school during some period in their life. As a matter of fact, in some urban development areas, several Catholic schools report that no currently enrolled children have a Catholic background.  This means the student population is very diverse.  Teachers do not have the requirement to be a practicing Catholic to teach at a Catholic school. Consequently, educators have diverse religious backgrounds.

"Real" Science Is Not Taught in Catholic Schools

Teachers in Catholic schools are professional, licensed, and accredited educators. Like any other school, they are held to the same standard of excellence in education. Teachers conform to a standard of objectivity teaching a subject, which carries over into the curriculum itself. One of a Catholic school's basic principles can be looked at this way--having faith does not mean that you do not employ critical thinking and analysis.  Science courses cover difficult and controversial subjects taught in prestigious accredited schools such as biological evolution and molecular biology. No divisive barriers exist between religious belief and a solid educational foundation.

Catholic School Emphasizes Religion First, Education Second

Catholic education is about building a strong foundation of learning and growth for children from all walks of life, in order for them to become functioning adults. It would be impossible to do this without emphasizing traditional education over a child's religious education. The primary focus of the educators is to take the students through the accredited curriculum program, and not waste time with unnecessary extras.   

Instead of religion being the focal point, it is usually tied to one or two classes per day.  In some cases, these courses are electives.  

Prayer in Catholic school is not mandatory, although some teachers will choose to start their class lessons with a prayer. If your child is non-denominational or of a different religion, they have the opportunity to not participate when it comes time to pray in class. In present day Catholic schools, teachers encourage students to understand other groups and belief systems found in the world.

This exposes children to a diverse world perspective beyond their own personal religious background. Welcoming new technology and study programs that make religion a feature, not the meat and potatoes of the experience as a whole, is one way Catholic schools prioritize education, while still incorporating religion. These are just a few of the misconceptions about Catholic school you might encounter. Catholic schools are very similar to private schools; however, often times the cost is less than sending your child to a non-denominational private school. Sending your child to a Catholic school is a great way to enhance their education, as many Catholic schools tend to have smaller class sizes than public schools. If you are considering sending your child to a private school, do not overlook the various Catholic schools in your area, as they provide an excellent education.

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26 January 2015

Learning for a Lifetime

Ever since I was a small child, I submersed myself in books. Whenever I started a new work of literature, I was instantly transported to another exciting world. Besides burying myself in books, I also actually enjoyed going to school in order to learn new things. My love affair with learning motivated me to earn four college degrees. As an adult, I still enjoy becoming educated about unfamiliar things. Thankfully, I don’t ever have to stop learning. Many colleges and universities regularly provide continuing education courses for those whose thirst for knowledge is never quenched. Regardless of whether you wish to learn how to sew, dance, or excavate ancient ruins, you can discover your passion in a continuing education class. On this blog, you will find out more about this incredible opportunity to learn for a lifetime. Enjoy!