Q: What is a Private Catholic School?

A:  Private Catholic schools are schools which are owned and operated by an entity legally distinct from the Diocese, but which are formally recognized and approved by the Bishop as Private Catholic schools. The governing bodies of these schools submit to the Bishop's direct authority in matters of faith and morals, and to the Bishop's supervision over the Catholicity and religious education program.  The governing body is solely responsible for all other aspects of the schools operation including financial, personnel and educational programs.

The following is a list of standards which we will be required to meet as a Private Catholic School.  It is very important to note that we are currently in compliance with ALL of the standards.  Therefore, you will see very little change in our school as we become a Private Catholic School.  The number of sacramental and liturgical celebrations varies from school to school and will be determined as we continue through our period of discernment.

• The School shall conform to the authority of the Bishop in all matters of Faith and morals, especially as related to the Catholicity of the School, Religious education, and Church liturgical requirements and practice.

• The School shall provide for its students on a regular basis sacramental and liturgical services that are conducted by priests or deacons. Prayer services and other pastoral programs should reflect Catholic teaching and practice.

• Canonically, the responsibility for the preparation of students to receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist) rests with Pastors and their parish communities. The School shall cooperate fully and provide effective coordination with the pastors of the local parishes in this regard.

• The School shall ensure that its religious education program is in compliance with the religious education policies of the Diocese.

• The religion curriculum and textbooks provided by the School for the religious education and spiritual development of students shall be approved and periodically reviewed by the Catholic Schools Office. Additionally all religion textbooks must have been approved by competent ecclesiastical authority.

• The School shall strive to ensure that all aspects of education in the School are rooted in Catholic teaching.

• The School shall not knowingly permit the use of school facilities or invite to the School, support and/or endorse any speaker, program, political or other groups or persons who publicly oppose or bring into question the teachings of the Catholic Church.