Experience the gift of a Catholic education

All parents want to give their child a better life than they had. One way to achieve this is to give your child the gift of a Catholic education. Our family feels truly blessed to send our children to St. Mary’s School in Ballston Spa. We know that the wholesome friendships our children create and the spiritual growth that enriches their lives can only be found at a Catholic school.

Two years ago, on their last field trip of the year, our daughter’s third-grade class went on a hike through the woods. Their teacher, Mrs. Eddy, led the students and chaperones along a rocky path which opened to a clearing next to a serene lake. The scene was reminiscent of a modern-day Norman Rockwell painting: The girls chatted and admired the view, while the boys picked up snake skins and jumped along the rocks. As we unpacked our lunches, one of the students suggested we say a prayer. The students said a Hail Mary followed by intercessory prayers for those who had sick family members in need of God’s healing. As I observed the scene, I was struck by the beauty of God’s creation and the students’ genuine belief in prayer and their care for each other. It was an experience I’ll never forget and one that can only happen at a Catholic school.

We live in a society that devalues the human person. Our culture teaches children to value material possessions over relationships with other people. But a Catholic school education is counter-cultural and teaches the fruits of the Holy Spirit: kindness, charity, goodness, self-control, peace, gentleness and patience. You can feel the Holy Spirit when you attend a Mass with the students. The students come from different backgrounds and cultures, but they come together to celebrate Mass and sing songs of worship to Jesus. And some of them really belt it out — it’s completely adorable.
I would encourage all parents to consider giving their child the gift of a Catholic education. Our Catholic school works with families by offering scholarships and tuition assistance. We don’t want anyone to feel left out. Call St. Mary’s in Ballston Spa or your local Catholic school to schedule a tour. Our Catholic education has blessed our lives and it will bless yours too.

Jan and Jennifer VanDeCarr live in Ballston Lake and their children, Jillian and Kurt, attend St. Mary’s School in Ballston Spa.