I decided to write this article after I read an article " Catholic schools: Not just for Catholic," published in The Times, a local newspaper in my town here in Ottawa, Illinois, U.S.A. The article was written by Nick McLaughlin, a senior student at Marquette High School, Ottawa. Transfered from a public school to a Catholic school, Nick in his article mentioned that he experienced a huge difference in his life through education and religious atmosphere at Marquette which made him a well-educated and a better person. He ends his article by saying," I am not Catholic, I am Protestant. Because of this school, I am firm in my faith before leaving this institution, I am well-educated, and I have learned a ton. This Catholic school and the religious atmosphere, has made me want to become more, to become a better person". Well said, Nick!

And yes---Catholic schools truly make a difference in your life, and I know it since I also graduated from a Catholic institution namely St. Aloysius High school and College, Mangalore. At St. Aloysius--through proper guidance, excellent discipline and superb teaching by the Jesuit priests and excellent faculties, brought out the best in me as I grew in knowledge, skills and values. Right from my early schooling until I graduated from college the faculty and staff at St. Aloysius School and College were my role models who shared their faith, their talents and their time-- and because of their sacrifice and commitment towards me has made me a better person today. Me, and my brothers Joe and Rudy feel very proud to be graduated from this great Catholic institution, and we owe our sincere gratitude to our alma mater.

I am not discriminating nor that I am saying education at other private or public schools is bad, but education at a Catholic institute is a challenging education. High standards, strong motivation, effective discipline and an atmosphere of caring combine to foster excellence, and a high quality of student performance is supported by the evidence. A Catholic school's value is not 'added' but embedded. It is reflected in the philosophy and practices that permeate the educational process.

At Catholic schools, students have the opportunity to talk about their beliefs, explore their faith life, and understand their responsibilities as Christians regardless of their religious background. All are welcome at a Catholic school and all share in the experience of faith, acceptance, forgiveness, service, truth, love, and compassion. They are challenged to put their faith into action and provide services to those in need including the sick, the poor, the elderly and the disadvantaged.

While providing a stimulating and demanding education, Catholic Schools give students a high level of individualized attention and personal sharing. A Catholic School recognizes the parents and family as primary educators and joins with them to form a living community of shared visions. Catholic Schools are committed to the developlment of the whole student. Extra-curricular activities are regarded as an important part of the total experience.

A variety of choices is offered to reflect the uniqueness of each student, to generate a healthy sense of competition, to create a spirit of cooperation, and to foster both leadership and creativity. And I remember being at the helm of various co-curricular activities during my high school and college days at St. Aloysius--- In high school I was member of Sodality; member of UNESCO club; and member of Photography club. In college I was Secretary of Co-Life Association; Editor-in-Chief of Co-Life magazine; member of AICUF and CLC; member of Biology Association; Sports Association; and Fine Arts Association. Thanks to my teachers who encouraged me to participate in all these extra-curricular activities.

Like most of you who had education at Catholic institution-- me, my brothers, my nephews Brian, Adrian and my neices Jennifer, Julie and Sherine, all feel the sense of belonging to something that is more important than our education and experience-- that is the long-lasting feeling that you are still the proud family member of your alma mater.

Finally, all I can say is that a Catholic education is worth the cost. It's money wisely spent. Your child's tuition is an investment which pays a lifelong dividend. So parents, whether you are Catholic or non-Catholic and if you want to see your children well-educated and disciplined, then consider to educate them at Catholic Schools-- because someday you will be displaying a bumper sticker saying that "Proud Parent of a Catholic School Student ". Long live Catholic education, and long live Catholic institutions!