Catholic school enrollment increased for the first time in two decades this school year across the nation, according to a report released by the National Catholic Educational Association.
The enrollment increase was from Catholic elementary schools and grew overall by 5.8% – primarily due to the sharp rise in the number of prekindergarten students. Highlights of the report showed an enrollment increase of 62,000 students, or a 3.8% jump.
The information was presented at the spring gathering of the NCEA. Held in New Orleans, it drew 2,000 Catholic education professionals from across the nation.
Dr. Robert Lockwood, director of curriculum and assessment for South Jersey Catholic schools in the Diocese of Camden, attended the conference and called it revitalizing. The NCEA sessions covered topics such as academic innovation, operational vitality, classroom technology and Catholic identity.
“The NCEA conference provided me with a valuable opportunity to see the best practices and achievements among Catholic schools and dioceses throughout the United States,” he said. “These best practices help us be innovative with our approach to Catholic education in the Diocese of Camden.”
At the gathering, educators heard how the report credited the enrollment bump this year to Catholic schools’ “dedication in safely opening classrooms and supporting their communities’ needs.”
Explaining how the Diocese of Camden meets the needs of its schools, Lockwood said professional development is fostered by providing teachers and administrators the assessment tools needed to help their students make greater academic gains. In addition, the Diocese provides educators with additional support for students with learning differences.
“But our primary focus is to continue supporting schools in nurturing students in developing a strong relationship with Jesus Christ through prayer and service. Our commitment to faith formation and academics will help schools in retaining and attracting new students,” he said.
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