For the third consecutive year, enrollment at Catholic schools is higher than in the academic year that preceded it, according to diocesan officials, who forecast an opening student count of more than 18,400 children across 50 parochial schools, including independent Catholic elementary, middle and high schools.
“The foundation of authentic Catholic education is a commitment to the Catholic faith and its teaching,” said Bishop Michael F. Burbidge. “I am so grateful to the parents, teachers, faculty and staff who each year renew this commitment to embrace the faith through Catholic education.
“This same faith teaches us that each young person is a gift from God who deserves to be formed intellectually, physically, emotionally, and most importantly, spiritually. Our teachers selflessly offer their time and considerable talents to partner with parents to cherish, nurture and educate each of their students. After all, parents are the primary teachers of their children. This partnership is one of the reasons our students find such great success,” he said.
“I thank parents who continue to put their trust in our growing Catholic schools. Parents, teachers, faculty and staff can be assured of my prayers as the school year begins,” Bishop Burbidge said.
“For the third year since the pandemic, enrollment in Catholic schools in the Diocese of Arlington continues to grow, with an expected opening student count of over 18,400,” said Joseph E. Vorbach, diocesan superintendent of schools. “In large measure, parents who sought an in-person option for their children in 2020 have been impressed with the mission focus of our Catholic schools and chosen to remain with us. Other families have joined us in the ensuing years, and we are grateful for the opportunity to partner in the education of their children and in doing so fulfill our mission to serve Christ and his church.”
