If you're getting ready to enroll your child into school for the year, there are many things to keep in mind when finding the right fit for your child. Most parents choose public school because it's convenient and generally free of charge to attend, but there are many benefits to choosing a private school over a public one. If you have a strong religious background, or you want a more individualized curriculum for your child, having him attend a private school with a strong Catholic background (such as Saint Thomas Academy) may be a great option. Here are a few advantages and strong points to consider if you wish to have your child attend a Catholic school.

Catholic-Based Curriculum

If you are Catholic and so is your child, having a strong religious presence throughout your child's school day can be comforting and reassuring. Unlike public school classrooms, most Catholic private schools offer prayer before school and throughout the day. Bible study is also generally incorporated into the educational schedule plan for the day. If you attend the same church that is affiliated with the school, you can stay in better communication with the school staff and happenings within your child's classroom. Most Catholic middle schools offer a smaller student class size than most classrooms in public schools. With a lower student to teacher ratio, your child gets more individualized attention. 

Tuition Costs

With most Catholic private schools, there is often a tuition requirement in order to enroll and attend class. These costs cover maintaining the school, purchase of equipment and paying the school staff. Don't be discouraged from filling out an enrollment form for your child. You may be able to get a discounted rate if you're a member of the church affiliated with your child's school or if you volunteer to help out in the classroom or in other areas of the facility. Some schools offer scholarships for playing sports or achieving a high G.P.A. This can help out to significantly offset tuition costs if you're having financial difficulties.

Uniforms And Dress Code

Most Catholic schools have a strict dress code policy and many require students to wear a uniform each day. While parents may be required to pay to rent or purchase the uniforms, many uniforms and other school supplies are combined with tuition costs and dues. For most private schools, this allows you to make payments over the course of the semester or school year. This is an advantage over having to buy schools and supplies for your child throughout the year in the public school system. 

Extracurricular Activities

Depending on the size and budget of the Catholic school your child wishes to attend, many more extra-curricular activities including sports and clubs may be more accessible than in a public school. Because public schools are government funded, many classes including foreign language classes and art are often cut. Because each student's tuition helps to expand the educational curriculum in the private school, more opportunities often abound. 

A Catholic-based Christian school should offer a strong education with an even stronger influence of religion with each lesson in the curriculum. If this sounds like a good foundation for your child, consider a private school as opposed to a public one.

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