FAQ

Why a Catholic School? 

Catholic schools are faith-centered communities that integrate thinking and believing in ways that encourage intellectual growth, nurture faith, and inspiration. They create a supportive and challenging climate which affirms the dignity of all people.

Which school is right for us?

God made each one of us unique with special gifts, talents, and needs.  As you begin the process of selecting a Catholic school, you will begin to discover the rich history behind each one. Several were founded based on religious orders from Italy, Poland, and Belgium. We encourage you to take the time to explore the school within your proximity and what it has to offer for your child(ren).

Do I have to be Catholic to attend at Catholic School?

No. Over 25% of our students enrolled are not Catholic and practice many different faiths.
 

Do you follow the Common Core Standards?

No  Our schools follow the standards set forth by the Arch Diocese of Phoenix or the Arch Diocese of Hartford.  Please visit Curriculum Overview for more details. 

What extra-curricular activities do you offer?

Our schools offer a variety of extra-curricular activities.  They do vary based on each school. Please check with your school to see what is available. 
 

Will my child attend Mass each week?

Several schools offer weekly, monthly, and Holy Days of Obligation Masses.  The schedule is determined by each school.  Students often have the chance to participate as Altar Servers, Lectors, Gift Bearers, or in the Choir.
 

Who decides the cost of the tuition? Is it the same at every school? 

Tuition at Parish schools is set by the Pastor who consults with his school board or finance committee.
Tuition at Central Catholic Schools is set by the Catholic Schools Office.
Tuition at Independent Schools is set by the Head of School and consultations with school board and finance committee.
For tuition details on each school, please visit its websites which can be found at Our Schools

Is there a cost to register my child at a Catholic Schools?

Yes.  Registration fees are charged and vary by each school.   Please refer to your school's registration fee policy.

What other fees are charged at Catholic Schools?

Book fees may be charged by schools.

Fees for clubs, sports, and extra-curricular activities may also be charged by each school.

Please check with your school for details of additional fees charged. 

How can our family afford a Catholic education?

Please refer to Tuition Assistance for more details. 

Is there a “Catholic Discount” for tuition?

If you are an active registered parishioner, some parish schools offer a parishioner rate for  tuition. The decision is made solely by the pastor. Please check with your parish or school for more information. 

Are there any other programs which help defray the cost of tuition? 

Schools have additional financial programs which may help defray the cost of tuition.  Please check with each school to find out what programs are in place since the offerings are not all the same. 
 

Is lunch included with tuition? 

Please check with each school regarding its lunch programs and costs.  Some are included while others have outsourced the lunch programs to Papa Gino's, Subway, or Local Culinary Programs.