Believe it or not, this is one of the first questions I field when meeting with a prospective family. As the only Catholic school in Lamoille County, and one of only a handful of private schools in the area, it’s a very reasonable question and I always appreciate responding. Let me begin by answering the question, “Can non-Catholics attend All Saints Catholic Academy,” with an emphatic “YES!”
There are many reasons a family might consider All Saints Catholic Academy. For many, it is the Christian environment that is the culture of the school – which includes teachers and staff who love what they do, parents who are actively involved, and students who are compassionate, and full of school pride. For others, it’s the rigorous curricula that promises to focus on learning; challenging each student to reach his/her maximum potential. Whatever the reason, we are always thrilled to welcome new faces to our All Saints Catholic Academy family.
Religion is a class that is taught daily at our school, Mass is celebrated weekly, Reconciliation is offered three times per year, and Adoration is observed monthly. For some of our students, this is an extension of their families’ Catholic tradition. For others, it’s an opportunity to learn firsthand what is presented in the religion curriculum. It’s also a time for students of other faith backgrounds to share their families’ traditions and customs. Learning about and appreciating different viewpoints and practices creates empathy and understanding. Perhaps if more students attended All Saints Catholic Academy, religion wouldn’t be such a taboo topic at social gatherings twenty years from now!
Every so often, I am asked why All Saints Catholic Academy isn’t just an independent, private school. “What’s the difference?” they wonder. The Catholicity is the difference. Whether a student is Catholic or not, the Catholicity of the school creates the environment we all treasure. If your children currently attend or if you’ve visited, you know that feeling you have when you walk through the school’s front doors? The feeling you just can’t quite put your finger on? That’s the Catholicity of the school – which is the love God has for all of us, Catholic or not.
All Saints Catholic Academy welcomes families of all faiths. We not only welcome them but cherish them as our brothers and sisters in this quick journey on earth; we encourage your family to experience the difference that is Catholic education.
Posted by Mrs. Wilson
