Is Catholic Education Really that Bad? - Why do all of our friends choose homeschool over Catholic School?

ryanmac · #1 Sep 15, '09, 9:58 am

We're new to the Catholic faith (RCIA April 2009) and just beginning to develop Catholic friendships in our area.

Recently we were at a party with about 10-15 couples in their 20s and 30s (all devout, cradle Catholics... the prayerful, daily-mass, serving, tithing, orthodox types). At some point the conversation turned to education and we found out that ALL of them are home schooling their children instead of Catholic education.

100%!

And it's not like they all go to one parish, they're spread out at orthodox parishes around the area.

It turns out nearly all of them grew up attending Catholic schools around the country. And all of them praise God that they're still faithful at all, since very very few of their childhood friends remain faithful after their Catholic education.

While a group of 20-30 devout Catholics from all over the country that attend various parishes around the area all finding unity in their education beliefs is a miracle in itself, I have to wonder if our sampling is too small.

But they're not alone. During our conversion process we spoke with others who were excited about our journey toward Rome, but warned us never to let our children attend Catholic school.

This is what brings me to you all. We're 4 years away from having to make these decisions ourselves, but I'm curious if you echo the opinions of the young devout Catholics we know.

So what do you think? Is Catholic school really that detrimental to one's faith? Are you sending your children to Catholic school? If so, what are the tell-tale signs one can look for to determine if a school would be a benefit or hindrance to the faith of your children?

As a bit of background, I was raised in fantastic public schools that I would love to raise my children in -- if they weren't 2000 miles away. My wife was raised in conservative Christian schools (Protestant) and had fabulous experiences and grew tremendously in her faith there. We're not anti anything by culture. But it was disconcerting to see such a resounding chorus of disapproval from our most faithful friends.

Thanks.