Celebrating the Mission of Catholic Education
 
The Catholic Church runs the largest network of non-governmental schools in the United States. Total Catholic elementary/middle and high school enrollment for the 2018-2019 academic year was 1,789,363. 
 

• Elementary/middle schools: 5,092 schools educating 1,239,449 students.
• High schools: 1,197 schools educating 549,914 students.
• 6,289 total Catholic (elementary/middle and high) schools in the United States.
• Catholic schools save about 20 billion tax dollars every year.

All through my life, I had the blessing of the best  Catholic education, inspiring deep devotion to the Lord and instilling faith and a great sense of mission.
 
Today, Catholic education needs to refocus on this primary mission of Jesus: to build on our Baptismal grace and anointing to become missionary disciples and visionary apostles.  Behind the success of every Catholic student and teacher, there is a believing community. Let us encourage our parents, students, and educators to continue the mission of Jesus in the Catholic Schools with new fervor and dedication.
 
The Holy See expounds its primary mission
highlighting these five essential marks of a Catholic School.
 
1. Inspired by the Supernatural Vision
2. Founded on Christian Anthropology of the Whole Person
3. Animated by Communion and Community
4. Imbued by the Catholic Way of Life; Love of    Wisdom and Passion for Truth
5. Sustained by Gospel Witness
 
Let us continue to pray, support, and do all that is
possible to enhance this vision of Catholic Education.
 
Peace and Blessings!
 
Fr. Tom