Why Choose a

There has probably never been a

tougher time to be a parent, which is

why there's never been a better time to

choose a Catholic school.

by

The following is taken from To Teach as Jesus

Did, the American Bishops statement on education.

"We (the bishops of America) affirm our conviction that the Catholic school retains its immense importance in the circumstances of our times, and we recall the duty of Catholic parents to entrust their children to Catholic schools, when and where this is possible, to support such schools to the extent of their ability, and to work along with them for the welfare of their children."

AOnly in such a school can they experience learning and living fully integrated in the fight of faith. The Catholic school strives to relate all human culture eventually to the news of salvation, so that the light of faith will illuminate the knowledge which students gradually gain of the world, of life, and of mankind."

Catholic education is intended to "make peoples' faith become living, conscious, and active, through the light of instruction." The Catholic school is the unique setting within which this ideal can be realized in the lives of young people everywhere.

When parents choose a Catholic School for their children, it sets their children apart as a family so committed to their children's education that they are ready to make extraordinary sacrifices.

Parents, by making the sacrifice necessary to send their children to Catholic school, show them education is a high priority.

When a teacher chooses to teach in a Catholic School, we have a person ready to make extraordinary sacrifice in order to mentor our youth to deeper ideals and values. Catholic school teachers view their work both as it career and as a ministry.

When a Student enters the Catholic School environment where the entire parish, parents, and teachers, join in the pursuit of academic excellence, the result is a totally serious approach to education. The intensity of the quest for learning and personal formation is powerfully communicated to the student. It shows:

Standardized tests at the local, state, and national level have consistently indicated a higher level of learning in Catholic Schools

Catholic schools have earned the reputation of providing excellence in education for all students--not just for the academically talented.

There is an alarming rate of depression and suicide among the youth of our country. These are the extremes, however, every child in our society is being subjected to influences that erode the spirit. In this most formative and vulnerable time of their lives, our children need a strong spiritual formation in their lives.

Catholic schools seek to prepare our children in mind and spirit so that they can live lives full of hope, joy, and peace, no matter what challenges they meet.

Because of small class size and because of close parental involvement each student is given special attention so that, whether they are academically advantaged or disadvantaged, their needs are met.  A child may need accelerated learning in one area and special tutoring in another subject.

Catholic School Educators, in cooperation with parents, teach students the peace and joy of relying on God.

Our children are a complex mix of spirit, mind, and body. What happens in our mind, for example, has deep affect in our spirit. Catholic school philosophy includes the whole person so that there be a balanced growth.

Each day in the Catholic school presents opportunities for students to put their values to use--in the classroom, at lunch, and during recess.

Why not let my children choose their school?

The personal formation of our children is too important to be based on the likes and dislikes of our child. For example, we would never leave a major medical decision up to our child. Parents always try to give the best they know to their children.

What about sports?

Sports are recognized as an important component of a child=s growth. A complete and exciting sports program is offered at our Catholic schools. Again, balance is important here. The proper emphasis of sports needs to be determined in light of the long range needs of the student.

What are the costs?

There is nothing more valuable that you can give to your child than a strong intellectual and spiritual formation. The financial cost per year is about what you would pay for a good TV set or a couple of car payments. What you get in your Catholic school is far more valuable and enduring than anything else you could buy. If necessary, financial aid is available. Our Bishop has said that no child should be deprived of a Catholic education because of lack of money.

What about transportation?

Our Catholic schools work closely with the public school system and the busing company. Car pooling among families for special events is also available. In Nekoosa and Port Edwards, special sacrifice is needed in our middle school and high school families. It is worth every ounce of energy and time we invest.

Come and visit our Schools:

• Sacred Heart School (grades k4, k5, and 1-6)

710 Vilas

Nekoosa, WI 54457

886-3761

e-mail:sachtnek@wctc.net

webpage:

http://www.rc.net/lacrosse/sacred-heart

Fr. John Swing, Pastor

Ms. Jean Stelzer, Principal

• Assumption Middle School (grades 7-8)

440 Mead St.

Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

422-0950

• Assumption High School (grades 9-12)

445 Chestnut

Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

422-0910

Parents and Catholic School educators are partners in teaching values to students. What is taught at home is also taught is the classroom.