Above the Norm:
Emphasis on Core Learning, Christian Values Foster High Standards
A number of independent studies have been conducted on why Catholic schools are consistently some of the most successful schools in the United States. Catholic school students have some of the highest standardized test scores and college matriculation rates in the nation. Emphasis on the core subjects as well as community service components and opportunities for leadership through athletics and other extra-curricular activities, make Catholic school students prepared and engaged for higher studies and for greater leadership roles.
The center of the Catholic School advantage is the philosophy that permeates the total education program and the lives of the faculty and students. This philosophy challenges students to improve the world by sharing Gospel values and living Christ’s message of salvation. They grow to understand the roots of their faith and their responsibilities as Christians. As noted in Mount St. Joseph’s and Christ the King’s Mission Statements, Catholic students, teachers and families are invited and encouraged not only to seek personal excellence but also to respond to the needs of the larger community and the world in order to create a just world. As a faith community, we emphasize those values that encourage students to accept others rather than exclude them, to understand the difference between right and wrong, and to commit themselves to serve God by serving others. This is, in large part, why the service requirements exist at Catholic schools.
Excellence is fostered through high standards, strong motivation, effective/positive discipline and an atmosphere of caring. This high quality of student performance is supported by the evidence:
• Catholic school students score significantly above the national averages on standardized testing.
• Research shows that because of a greater emphasis on homework and study, Catholic school students develop more effective writing skills.
• Catholic high school students attend post-secondary education at a rate in excess of 80% and are more likely to complete their program of studies. MSJ’s current average exceeds 90%, one of the highest college entrance rates in Vermont.
Mount St. Joseph Academy and Christ the King School, while providing a stimulating and demanding education, give students a high level of individualized attention and personal sharing. This commitment is reinforced by participation in programs for advanced students and also for those experiencing difficulties. As an example MSJ offers both Honors and Advanced Placement courses and provides opportunities for upper division students to take courses through Virtual High School and at Castleton State College and the College of St. Joseph. During the course of this year, MSJ will also develop a college resource center for the use of all students, as well as institute an Educational Support Team (EST) for students experiencing academic difficulties. You are invited to inquire into the advantages that a Catholic education offers by visiting our web sites at: www.msjvt.org or
www.cksrutland.org.
