For parents thinking about a Catholic school for their child, now is the perfect time to take a closer look. Investments at Catholic schools have modernized programs and practices to meet the needs of students in today’s competitive learning environment. Teachers, principals and administrators are focused on student success – including academic achievement, character development and the moral teachings young men and women need in an increasingly complex and competitive world.
“Catholic schools in Westchester County provide a wide variety of options for families. Our schools offer diverse programs, are academically excellent and are anchored by a faith-based curriculum. We are committed to enhancing the lives of our students, so that they in turn can enhance the lives of others. My husband and I choose to send our daughter to Catholic school. We are so pleased to see how inspired she is ¬– on many levels – each and every day,” says Noelle Beale, Ph.D., Regional Superintendent for Catholic Schools of Central Westchester.
A Teacher’s Choice
Dedicated faculty instill a love of learning early on in pre-K and kindergarten, and continue to develop students’ zest for learning throughout their lives. One elementary school teacher who is committed to this goal is Sheila Alagia of St. Peter’s School in Yonkers. Alagia currently teaches math, and over her 27-year career has also taught history and reading. She graduated from Catholic elementary, high school and the Catholic University in Washington D.C., which made a career teaching in a Catholic setting a natural fit.
“Moral values are woven into everything we do. We have the freedom as teachers to take the time for reflection and prayer when a student may need it most,” says Alagia. “In a Catholic school setting we see students, families and staff identify as a family. Parents make the financial commitment toward their child’s success and seek out teaching in a classroom that reinforces the values they teach at home. Teachers are making the choice to teach here. For me it has been very fulfilling and I find much joy in what I do. We’re all in this together in helping our children, our future leaders, grow academically, spiritually and emotionally.”
Academics
Reflecting the academic quality of Catholic Schools, the New York State Education Department Examination results for the Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York continue to improve. The 2015-16 academic year test results show that Catholic schools have a higher percentage of students meeting or exceeding proficiency standards than New York City Public Schools in both Math and ELA (English Language Arts). More Catholic school students met or exceeded proficiency standards in ELA than New York State Public School students.
Application Process
If you are interested in sending your child to Catholic school here is a step-by-step guide for applying to a Catholic school in the Archdiocese of New York.
Step 1: Find a School
Before you apply, parents are encouraged to visit one or more Catholic Schools convenient to work or home to see firsthand how a Catholic education can put students on the path to academic and personal success. Start by visiting buildboldfutures.org to learn more.
Step 2: Complete and Submit Your Admissions Application
Once you have selected your school, start your online application via ApplyCatholicSchoolsNY.org. Review all of the information provided regarding increased financial assistance available, income eligibility guidelines, age qualifications and document requirements before you start your online Admissions Application. Families can apply for grades pre-K (age 3) through 8 starting on Dec. 1, 2016 via one of three methods:
- Online at ApplyCatholicSchoolsNY.org
- By phone at 646-794-2885, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., if you are unable to access a computer or would like to access Spanish- language representatives and/or translation services for other languages
- At the school of interest if you would like help from the school’s staff in completing the online applications for Admissions and Financial Assistance.
Note that for the 2017-18 school year, new students entering pre-K (age 3) through grade 8 who complete and submit their Admissions Applications on or after the early admissions date of Dec. 1, 2016 will receive their decisions sooner. Families completing both the Admissions and Financial Assistance Applications (including all required documents) for students entering kindergarten through grade 8 by Feb. 15, 2017 will receive decisions regarding acceptance and financial assistance no later than March 31, 2017, and likely sooner (note: pre-K students are not eligible for financial assistance). No Admissions fees or initial deposits are required. There is a $35 fee for the financial assistance application.
Nick Iacono is the Director of Communications and Public Relations Archdiocese of New York (ADNY). ADNY has its central offices of the Superintendent of Schools at the Terrance Cardinal Cooke Catholic Center, 1011 First Ave., 18th floor, New York. 212-371-1000. buildboldfutures.org.
By the Numbers
- Number of Private/Parish/Regional Elementary and High Schools in Westchester: 47
- Enrollment in Private/Parish/Regional Elementary and High Schools in NY State overall: More than 67,000 students
Students Overall
- 77% Catholic
- 23% Non-Catholic
Ethnic Diversity
- 45% White
- 29% Latino
- 15% African-American
- 11% Asian and other backgrounds
