The above tagline, taken from the Gospel of Luke (11:31), is the brand message of Catholic education. What is the something greater here? It is faith, it is Christ and it is you.

Catholic education is not just about cursive writing or erasers and blackboards—it is so much more. Catholic education is about forming the whole child, it is about knowing who the child is, who the child is called to be, and going full force to seek the excellence of the child.

Yes, Catholic education imparts knowledge; we strive for developing the mind to seek the truth and challenge the current culture of confusion and opinions with clarity of Truth. After all, what good are excellent test scores (our SAT scores outperform the average state and even federal SAT scores) if the child does not know how to employ that knowledge or understand that we are called to build up each other, the common good, and then serve each other in charity.

In my role in Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Hartford, I see the test results and watch the proven methodologies to teach, but what we all might not see is the more important formational aspects of our children—developing them into good citizens and not just consumers. In elementary school, we begin the process of understanding that God made all peoples in His likeness and image, and that all are called to be holy. We teach them to pray for each other, to be concerned about the other’s needs, and to care for one another. Each child is called to forgive and move on when feelings are hurt. Tomorrow is another day. In high school, the idea of service forms our young adults. That actions have consequences, and that in a world filled with others, we are all accountable—no matter who we are.

The following recount of a true story says it all: at a girl’s field hockey game between a public school and Catholic high school, a young girl with special needs was a team member of the public school. She sat on the sideline not playing. The Catholic school was ahead, and the teen captain of “All Saints” Catholic school went to the captain of the public school and suggested they put the girl with special needs in the game and give her a chance to play. When it came time for this young woman to hit the puck into the goal, the Catholic team stepped aside and her shot went in. Both teams erupted and carried the player around the field on their shoulders. It was an amazing human connection. In the end, it was not just about winning or losing, it was about the good of the child and the common good of all.

In Catholic schools, the teaching of faith and a moral code of righteousness is not a 45-minute class once or twice a week. Faith is woven into every discipline because “who we are” as well as “why we are” is important. We need good, well-formed citizens to heal our nation and our culture. Seemingly, we have enough consumers. We need Catholic education.

On April 21, from 1-3 p.m., Northwest Catholic High School is holding an open house with student-led tours, classroom demonstrations, and meetings with students and faculty and parents. It is an investment for sure, but the dividends are priceless and the outcome can benefit your child’s future. For more information go to: www.northwestcatholic.org or contact cnoers@nwcth.org or amandrola@nwcath.org