Supports Catholic Schools for Education

To the Editor:

I am often asked, “Why should I choose a Catholic School for my child?” And while this question is simple and direct, the answer is not as easy to define.

First, the Catholic school is a place where relationships are encouraged, built and made stronger. Within our walls students and staff alike are encouraged to build relationships with God and with one another.

Second, the Catholic school is a place of community. Since their inception in the 19th century, American Catholic schools have been places where a spirit of family and hospitality has been formed. By their very nature, the Catholic schools are places where young people are known by name and where they are encouraged to leave a mark on their school by making a difference in the community.

Here they receive an education that benefits their entire being, not just their mind.

Third, our schools are places where expectations are high. Our secular society has, in many ways, lowered expectations for our young people. Within our Catholic schools, we work day in and day out to make sure that our students know that they have more potential than society would lead them to believe. Our disciplinary codes foster self respect, and our high academic standards encourage students to go above and beyond mediocrity.

Fourth, the climate of the Catholic school is filled with faith. In a nation where the separation of Church and State has been practiced for centuries, our schools need not be shy about practicing religion. One of the more recent trends in public education has been the introduction of character education: a systematic curriculum that encourages students to be kind, honest, responsible and the like. We are proud that the Catholic tradition has been practicing character education for more than 2,000 years, teaching love, forgiveness and service to others in the tradition of Jesus Christ.

Finally, and most significantly, the Catholic school seeks teachers and staff members that are truly educators. For decades now, our teachers have been challenged to “teach as Jesus did.” As is well-documented, our teachers are clearly not here because of the high earning potential. They are in our schools because they believe in the mission of the school and in the philosophies of Catholic education. As a result, we have an adult community that goes above and beyond contractual duties to seek out the best means available to educate children.

Families in the Oneida area are fortunate to have the choice of St. Patrick’s School. I strongly urge families who want an excellent education for their children to call 363-3620 to see for yourself why you should choose a Catholic education at St. Patrick’s School.

Chris Mominey, Superintendent of Schools, Syracuse Catholic Diocese

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Supports Catholic Schools for Education

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