There’s a lot of thought and consideration that goes into making the best choices for your child’s education. Choosing the right Catholic school is an important decision that extends beyond academics. Parents are often seeking a place where their child can thrive academically, morally and socially. With so many Orlando Catholic schools to choose from, knowing what to look for can help you find the right fit. Here are some key factors to consider when making your choice:
Academic Rigor and Curriculum
A strong academic foundation is essential to preparing children for future success, whether that’s in higher education, their career or other areas of their lives. Look for a school that offers a well-rounded curriculum, balancing core subjects and special classes, like art, music, technology and foreign language. Also, consider how the school supports diverse learning styles and needs. For example, do they offer accelerated classes for certain subjects? Overall, the school’s commitment to academic excellence should be evident across all grade levels.
Philosophy, Mission and Values
Understanding a school’s mission can offer valuable insight into its priorities and approach to education. Look for one that clearly communicates its commitment to nurturing both the mind and heart, with values rooted in Gospel teachings. Pay attention to how the school fosters respect, responsibility and compassion in its students, as these are all values that will shape your child’s character throughout their life. A strong mission guides everything from classroom instruction to how students interact with one another, participate in the community and grow in their faith each day.
Faith Focus
Faith is central to the Catholic school experience, and it’s important to consider how deeply it’s integrated into the daily lives of students. Look for schools that encourage faith development and teach Catholic values across the curriculum to help your child build a stronger relationship with God. Ask how faith formation is supported both inside and outside the classroom. At St. Charles Borromeo, students have opportunities to connect with their faith through daily prayer, religion class and weekly Mass.
Community Involvement
Serving others is at the core of Jesus’s teachings, so Catholic schools should place a strong emphasis on service. See how the school encourages students to participate in and lead community outreach efforts that reflect the values of compassion and generosity taught in the Bible. Whether that’s through food drives or volunteer opportunities, these experiences help students put their faith into action. A school culture centered around service teaches children that helping others is not just a good deed, but a pillar of being a follower of Christ.
Extracurriculars and Leadership Opportunities
Extracurricular activities allow students to discover their interests and develop leadership skills outside the classroom. Whether it’s participating in team sports or student organizations like the National Junior Honor Society, these programs foster confidence, teamwork and a sense of belonging. When deciding on a school, consider the range of extracurricular activities and leadership opportunities available and how students are encouraged to take initiative and thrive as individuals.
Diversity and Inclusion
A welcoming environment that respects all cultures and backgrounds is key to a healthy school community. Catholic schools today often reflect a rich trapestry of cultures, languages and perspectives. Look for signs that diversity is present and celebrated in the curriculum, school events and family involvement opportunities. An inclusive environment promotes respect and helps students grow into empathic, compassionate individuals.
Student Outcomes
How the school prepares students for success beyond their current grade level is an important consideration. Look at indicators like graduation rates, alumni achievements and how the school measures academic and personal growth. These outcomes often reflect the school’s efficacy and long-term investment in students’ overall development. It also gives you a good understanding of how the school supports students in reaching their goals.
School Community
A strong Catholic school community involves supportive relationships among faculty, students and families. Look for a school that encourages parental involvement, open communication and a shared responsibility in students’ education. A school with qualified, experienced faculty who are committed to students’ well-being is better prepared to offer guidance and support. A collaborative environment goes a long way in enhancing students’ education and fostering personal growth.
Talk With Other Parents and Tour the Campus
Sometimes the best insights come from talking with other families who are a part of the school community you’re researching. Ask parents about their experiences with the school and what they appreciate most about it. Touring the campus can also help you gain a clearer sense of the school’s atmosphere, values and how students and teachers engage with one another.
Choosing the right Catholic school for your child is ultimately about finding a school community that nurtures students’ minds, hearts and spirits—preparing them not only for academic success, but for a life rooted in faith and service. Our Orlando Catholic school, located in the Catholic Diocese of Orlando, is committed to proclaiming the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ. We believe in teaching the whole child and want students to love learning, helping them grow into well-rounded, contributing members of society. Learn more about us by contacting us here.
