Catholic schools offer distinct education

By Jeff Henderson

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Catholic Schools Week celebrations have become a tradition since its beginning in 1974. This year's theme is “Catholic Schools: Faith, Academics, Service.”

Those three priorities make Catholic schools stand out from other educational institutions. At Catholic schools, children learn the basics of Christianity and how to have a relationship with God. They benefit from high academic expectations, which help each student reach his or her potential. Students also learn the importance of service, both as an expression of faith and a manifestation of good citizenship.

The 51 Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Dubuque are all fully accredited by the Iowa Department of Education. These schools offer education that is distinctive because:

l Catholic schools have the freedom to teach the total person - mind, body and spirit.

l Catholic schools play a key role in educating students of low-income families. These students achieve at a very high level by all academic measures defined by Iowa Tests of Basic Skills.

l 99.8 percent of students at Archdiocesan Catholic high schools graduate. Of these graduates, 97.3 percent go to on college, compared to 81.2 percent of Iowa public school graduates. Surveys indicate that 91 percent of Archdiocesan graduates will earn a college/university degree within five years of their graduation.

l Catholic schools provide significant economic benefits to the state, employing more than 1,100 full-time staff members, generating nearly $500 million annually in economic impact and saving taxpayers an estimated $69 million a year in education costs.

In addition to contributing to the quality of life in their hometowns, Catholic schools also rely on their communities for the support and resources that enhance their success. The Cedar Rapids metro community has been an outstanding supporter of Catholic education for more than 100 years. The local business community will be given an opportunity to renew commitment to this educational alternative as the Xavier Foundation kicks off its Annual Business Appeal, with a goal of $115,000 to support of Xavier High School.

Catholic Schools Week offers us an opportunity to recognize those who aid us in our mission - our parents, teachers, staff, administrators, board members, volunteers, the parishes and benefactors. These dedicated individuals provide our students with an outstanding education as well as examples of how service can make a difference in our community.

Jeff Henderson is the Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Dubuque and former principal of Xavier High School.