One of the most frequently asked questions during enrollment is whether a child and/or family has to be Catholic to attend Nouvel Catholic Central. Simply put, Nouvel welcomes students and families of all faith-based backgrounds. Our schools are founded in faith but we encourage students representing all religions to call Nouvel home.
According to the National Catholic Education Association, nationally, one-fifth of Catholic secondary school students are not Catholic. Locally, 15% of our student population does not identify as being Catholic. What leads families of other faiths, or no faith to that of a Catholic school? For many parents, the answer lies in concern for the well-being of the entire student; mind, body and spirit.
Beyond Academics Not only do families want opportunities for their children to succeed, in and out of the classroom, many are looking for a school that shares their moral values and beliefs. This allows students to be immersed in the same environment during school, while participating in sports/activities as well as at home. Catholic schools help accomodate this desire for more.
Additionally, our Catholic schools can discuss faith formation, between different religions, as well as ethics in the classroom. Students are encouraged to pray together and can use the term 'God,' rather than having to worry about avoiding it.
Enriched Learning Within our safe, faith-based environment, Catholic and non-Catholic students are encouraged to have authentic discussions amongst classmates. Instead of avoiding religious discussions, students and their teachers can enter into deaper conversations about God, the Church, the world and what it means for our lives.
Service Above Self Students are encouraged to serve others, like the Lord serves each of them. For this reason, each grade traditionally participates in at least one service project and several opportunities to give, advocate and volunteer for our local nonprofit organizations and favorite causes are plentiful throughout the year.
Non-Catholics at Mass All students are valued as treasured students and all are welcome, even at weekly Mass. Our mission is to "learn, love and lead... courageously" and that applies to any and all faith backgrounds. It is never our mission to convert non-Catholics, but rather helping to evangelize in the sense of witnessing the Gospel through words and actions. Students and staff are encouraged to use the time to awaken and deepen their own beliefs. At the high school specifically, we encourage all students to come forward to receive a blessing.
More Interest Families continue to tell us that the best way they were able to get a feel for the school environment is by coming on campus. Our Admissions team is here to help provide personalized tours, arrange for a shadow day student experience or just to share more about any topic you may want to discuss further. Once families visit our campuses they are able to experience the atmosphere and personality within the building. We always look forward to working with you to see which options are available for your children to thrive as a Nouvel Panther.