Why Catholic School? FAQ's
Why should I choose to send my child to a Catholic school?
- Should I choose a Catholic school?
- Can I afford to send my child to Catholic school?
- Do we need to be Catholic to attend St. Ann School?
- How does this school rate against the other public and private school in the area?
- What do you offer besides the required curriculum?
- Do you offer any extra curricular activities?
- What is the student-to-teacher ratio per class?
- Do you offer any programs for children with special needs?
- Do you offer any after school care?
- Do you offer a daily lunch program?
- Are there activities for new families to get to know each other?
Should I choose a Catholic school?
The Catholic school advantage is reflected in the philosophy that permeates the total educational program and the lives of the faculty and students. It is this philosophy that challenges students to improve the world by sharing Gospel values and encourages them to achieve their very best.
Can I afford to send my child to Catholic school?
A Catholic school is worth the cost. Your child's tuition is an investment, which pays lifelong dividends. Because there is such an emphasis on efficiency and accountability, Catholic Schools represent affordable excellence. It's not just a smart investment in education; it's a smart investment in your family's future. Our school also offers a tuition management program to help you meet the tuition obligation. This program enables you to make monthly payments making tuition affordable for most families.
Do we need to be Catholic to attend St. Ann School?
St. Ann School welcomes students of all religious, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and at all grade levels. We offer a faith- and value-based education to all. We have one objective: to cultivate the growth of each student as a whole person. This means that we not only work to help our students achieve academic excellence, but we also devote a lot of attention to the thoughtful construction of a child's character. We make a point of teaching our students about the value of self-worth, as we stress the importance of academic achievement. If your family is not Catholic, your child will learn about the Catholic faith, share in prayer and join in the preparation of sacraments without receiving those sacraments. While being a part of a larger family, we find that most children want to be a part of the process and involved in every aspect with their friends, even if they are not receiving their sacraments.
How does this school rate against the other public and private school in the area?
St. Ann's school is fully accredited by Middle States Association of Elementary Schools. The Saint Ann's testing scores rate higher than most of the surrounding area schools. The national norm for Terra Nova testing is 50. SAS children test higher on every academic level with an average score of 85.
What do you offer besides the required curriculum?
Saint Ann School provides Advanced Math, Physical Education, Art, Music, Technology (computers) and Multi-cultural specials. Latin is offered for 6th, 7th, and 8th grades.
SAS also offers a Guidance Program, Science Fair, Scholastic Olympics, Academic and Cultural Assemblies, Learning Center, Service Programs, Student Council, Geography Bee, Spelling Bee, Advisory Program, and Tutoring.
Do you offer any extra curricular activities?
SAS offers Newspaper Club, Drama Club, Service Programs, and intramural Spring Soccer. Through the parish, children may also participate in CYO Basketball, CYO Soccer, CYO Track, Boys Scouts, Girl Scouts, Children's Choir, Bell Chimes Choir, Westminster Choir Lessons, Legion of Mary, and Altar Servers.
What is the student-to-teacher ratio per class?
St. Ann's student teacher ratio averages 17:1. Our optimal class size would be 25. There are times when special consideration is needed and class size may be adjusted.
Do you offer any programs for children with special needs?
St. Ann's has a Learning Resource Room to meet the needs of our students who require a special education. We offer supplemental instruction, speech therapy ESL and home study through state aid. If your child has special needs or tests as needing special attention that we are unable to provide, we will be upfront and discuss your options for the best education for your child.
Do you offer any after school care?
Children can arrive as early as 7:30am, school starts at 8am and dismissal is 2:30. The after school program is available from 2:30 to 5:30 pm. There is an additional registration form and fee required to participate in this program. The program includes a snack, outdoor play, homework time, quiet time and enriched activities. The After School program can be reached at 771-1810 only during after school hours.
Do you offer a daily lunch program?
St. Ann's school lunch program is provided by Maschio’s Food Service.
Are there activities for new families to get to know each other?
Our PTA is very active with programs and events that help families feel welcome and part of the Saint Ann's community. Information pertaining to PTA events and activities will be sent home weekly with the students.
