Why Do Parents Send Their Children to Catholic Schools Despite Not Being Religious or Catholic?

Parents often find themselves in a unique position when it comes to sending their children to Catholic schools, even if they themselves are not religious or Catholic. This decision is rooted in a variety of factors, including the perceived educational benefits, moral values instilled, and the structured environment that these schools offer.

Superior Education and Discipline

One of the primary reasons parents choose Catholic schools is the perceived superiority of the education offered. Catholic schools are renowned for maintaining lower class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a more structured atmosphere that can enhance learning. These schools also emphasize discipline, which can lead to less time wasted on unruly behavior and more time spent on academic pursuits. Unlike public schools, which may struggle with classroom management and discipline issues, Catholic schools often have stricter policies and clearer consequences, ensuring a more conducive learning environment.

Moral Values and Prayer Times

Another significant factor is the moral and ethical education provided. While religious instruction is a key component, these schools also teach a broader set of values, such as respect, honesty, and kindness. These values are integrated into daily life, from classroom discussions to assemblies and prayer times. Even for parents who are not religious, this moral training can provide a solid foundation for their children’s character development. Moreover, the consistent presence of religious rituals and prayers can create a sense of community and routine, which some parents find beneficial.

Critical Assessment of Religious Instruction

However, the landscape of Catholic education has faced scrutiny in recent years. There is growing concern over the nature of religious instruction, particularly the emphasis on certain programs like the Theology of the Body. Some critics argue that this curriculum and others like Growing in Love (previously known as Sexuality and Our Moral Journey) prioritize sexual education and morality in ways that may align more with secular schools than with traditional Catholic values. This has raised questions about the true fidelity to Catholic teachings and the mission statements of these schools.

Examples from Personal Experience

My experience in Southampton, UK, further highlights the complexity of this issue. Catholic schools in my area consistently offer a better-rounded education and maintain a level of discipline that surpasses public schools. However, the church's practice of using children as a means to keep the institutions relevant, such as when parents and grandparents do not continue their religious journey, is disheartening. It may seem that the church is exploiting these children for its own needs rather than providing a comprehensive and authentic religious education.

Adding to the concerns, the USCCB (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops) has approved curriculums that include early exposure to sex education. While this may be well-intentioned, some fear that it prioritizes a sexualized approach to moral and religious education, which may not align with the broader values of Catholicism. The emphasis on Theology of the Body from an early age raises questions about the long-term impact on children and the authenticity of Catholic education.

Impact on Secular Families

My two male grandchildren serve as a case in point. Their mother attended Anglican kids church but eventually became atheist. Though their father is of Catholic descent, they are not religiously aligned. They wanted their children to attend a private high school after public primary school. While cost was a primary factor, the Catholic educational model offered a pragmatic yet religiously neutral environment. The children must study religion through the required curriculum, but they are not deeply engaged with religious practices, which aligns with their secular beliefs and interests.

Conclusion

While Catholic schools offer many positive attributes, such as superior education and moral values, they also face significant challenges, particularly regarding the authenticity of religious instruction and the long-term impact on secular families. As a parent and religious believer, I try to instill the value of trusting Jesus, but the decision to send children to Catholic schools is not straightforward. It requires careful consideration and ongoing evaluation to ensure the child receives the best education and values.