​Ways to Prepare for Catholic School

In choosing a Catholic school education, you are taking the first step in assuring a bright future for your child. The Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Hartford believe that a rigorous, well-rounded education should be available to everyone and they welcome students of all faiths, ethnic groups, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Follow these simple steps to prepare your child to be a successful, lifelong learner:

Apply

1. Visit the Office of Catholic Schools website and find a school near you that will be the best fit for your child’s individual needs.
2. After you’ve found the ideal school, visit its webpage for entrance requirements, forms, and deadlines.
3. Fill out the application (you can find these online on each school’s website).
   1. Be prepared with the following:
      1. Basic information about student
      2. Birth certificate
      3. Basic information about mother and father
      4. Basic information about guardian with whom the child lives
      5. Information on previous school(s)
      6. Information on sacrament(s) received (if applicable)
   2. Pay nominal registration fee
4. Check on tuition costs, as well as whether payment plans, financial aid, or scholarships are offered.

Enroll

1. Once your child is accepted, the next step is enrollment. The school will provide you with specific instructions that can also be found on the school’s website.
2. Request that your child’s previous school transfers the official academic records to the new one.
3. Pay nominal enrollment fee (if applicable).

Get Ready

1. Acquire a copy of the school’s handbook. You can download one from the school’s website or obtain one from the school administrator. Familiarize yourself with school policies and talk to your child about behavioral and academic expectations.
2. Read through the school’s vision and mission statement and explain why you have chosen this specific school to your child.
3. Find out the dress code requirements. For links to uniform stores and ways to save money on school clothes, check back with our blog: “Simple Savings: Cost Effective Tools for Faith-Based Schools.”
4. Ask for a supply list (many schools list them online) and make a fun day of shopping for them.

Make the Transition

1. Ask the administration, support staff, teachers, and parish (if applicable) for any transitional programs offered to new students.
2. Network with other parents.
3. Become involved. Volunteer in the classroom and for school events.

Your child is now on the way to being immersed in a community that fosters high personal standards and educational excellence. It is with extreme pleasure that we welcome you to our family.