Why Carondelet?

Catholic schools, like all educational institutions, prepare students for the future. However, unlike secular educational institutions, Catholic schools are committed to shaping that future by helping students understand fully, accept freely and live faithfully their Catholic heritage.

Research reported by the National Catholic Educational Association as well as other independent organizations points to certain key factors that contribute to the overall success of Catholic schools nationwide.

First, schools with a values-oriented curriculum successfully shape character as well as intellect. At Carondelet Catholic School we are dedicated to teaching respect and concern for others, responsibility, and self-discipline, along with an excellent academic program. Our students learn to respect, love and serve each other in a supportive environment emphasizing care and cooperation. Formal religion is taught as an academic subject. However, teachers and staff daily serve as role models and our students are equally expected to live their faith.

Second, Catholic schools are highly committed to creating a vibrant Christian community. At Carondelet Catholic School the principal and teachers together create and nurture the faith community within the school. Our students participate in traditions that strengthen their own faith development while encouraging them to become stewards of their broader communities. School-wide participation in community service projects enables our students to demonstrate concern for others and for the environment.

Third, Catholic schools have a tradition of providing a strong academic program and maintaining high expectations of students. With an average class size of 20 children, our teachers can identify and respond to each child’s strengths and needs. Our students learn not only to master skills in specific subjects, but also to think critically and solve problems creatively. Carondelet Catholic School students consistently score one to two years above Minnesota and national grade level norms on standardized achievement tests.

Fourth, Catholic school teachers carry out the tradition by believing that all children can succeed. Parents who choose Carondelet Catholic School say they are most impressed with the dedication and talent of our teaching staff and their ability in turn to motivate students. By creating a safe and nurturing learning environment, our teachers help students gain self-confidence and self-esteem. By providing stimulating classroom discussions and challenging assignments, they bequeath to them a lifelong love for learning.