This is a question we receive from many non-Catholic parents looking for a private, Christian education for their children. The answer is “No, your child does not have to be Catholic to attend our school.”
Historically, Catholic schools exist predominantly to educate children from Catholic families, but in recent years, the Catholic church has advocated a more inclusive approach to Catholic education. The Church now welcomes children who are socio-economically disadvantaged, those who are from indigenous or multicultural backgrounds, those who have special educational needs, and those who have faiths other than Catholic. In fact, nationally, about one-fifth of students in Catholic schools are non-Catholic, according to the National Catholic Educational Association. And, this number often increases in inner-city Catholic schools where 70% to 80% of students are non-Catholic.
Reasons Why Parents Send Non-Catholic Children to Catholic Schools
Research shows that families from different faiths choose to send their children to Catholic schools for a variety reasons, including:
What to Expect When You Send Your Child to a Catholic School
Your child will receive an excellent curriculum in English, math, science, history and social studies. However, what sets Catholic schools apart is that faith is integrated into the curriculum. MDG also emphasizes the liturgical seasons of the Church year by having special activities and events, such as Stations of the Cross, Seder Meals, and Advent celebrations.
Additionally, your child will attend religion class and pray daily, typically, in the mornings and before meals. Once a month, your child will attend school-wide Mass, although non-Catholics don’t partake in Communion. Our faculty and Catholic students will offer your child guidance during these activities, such as when to stand and sit during Mass.