In today’s economy it is refreshing to see a program that not only keeps “pace” with the communities it serves, but also sets a “pace” of innovation and creativity. The St. Louise de Marillac program, PACE (Providing Access to Catholic Education) is a win-win proposition for our communities.

It is a great resource for families that are challenged in today’s economic environment, offering them the possibility of providing their children with quality Catholic education.

We are very happy with the difference that the St. Louise Catholic education has made in our son’s life – morally, athletically and academically.

Bob and Cathy Arredia
Brookfield

 

As a St. Louise de Marillac School parent, I would like to thank all those involved with creating the PACE (Providing Access to Catholic Education) program. With our struggling economy, this tuition assistance initiative can make a Catholic education affordable for those who might not otherwise be able to provide one for their children.

From my own personal experience, St. Louise School welcomed my family and made the transition easy when Mater Christi School closed in 2005. The spiritual, academic and social education my sons receive at St. Louise is second to none, and I know my husband and I made the perfect choice when we chose St. Louise.

Once again, thanks to all involved with the creation and implementation of PACE. Rather than focus on the issue of decreasing enrollment at all catholic schools during the past decades, St. Louise de Marillac is looking toward the future with this innovative program.

Joanne Suba
North Riverside

 

My family and I could not be happier about the introduction of the PACE (Providing Access to Catholic Education) program to St. Louise de Marillac. We are parishioners of the church and parents of a preschooler and look forward to new families entering our community.

The PACE program allows more families in search of a spiritual and academic education to attend St. Louise that financially couldn’t before. Children already attending St. Louise would benefit because their social network would grow, allowing new experiences and learning opportunities.

At St. Louise, kids are not only taught a solid education, they are taught the love of God. I graduated from St. Louise and now our son attends the same school. We want him to grow with that feeling of connection and love that St. Louise provides. And through the PACE program, more families can have that same sense of pride in their school. These early years mold our children into their future being, why not have it be a spiritual and excellent academic journey?

Carla Prosen
Brookfield

Carla Prosen is vice president of the St. Louise Family School Association.

 

I wish to thank you for the article regarding St. Louise de Marillac School written by Bob Skolnik. He did a commendable job of reporting the present circumstances of St. Louise.

I was a teacher at St. Louise for 25 years, retiring in 2001. I continue to sub there and have two grandchildren enrolled in the school. My four children graduated from St. Louise and went on successfully to high school and college, and they have careers that enable them to care for themselves and their families.

Most importantly, the Christian foundation they received at St. Louise has led them to be honorable, loving, serving adults. I take great pride in the students, parents, faculty and curriculum of St. Louise.

The high academic standards, individualized attention and wide range of extracurricular activities blend with a strong moral development to produce wonderful young people ready to face the challenges of today’s world.

Carolyn Hammerschmitt
Brookfield

 

If your neighborhood does not a have a Catholic elementary school, quality Catholic elementary school education is available nearby, in LaGrange Park.

While many parents may feel that expense of a Catholic may out of reach, it is refreshing to see schools such as St. Louise de Marillac offer programs such as PACE. The PACE program (Providing Access to Catholic Education) is a great option for parents who want their children to have a Catholic education, but need financial assistance.

The benefits of Catholic education surpass just academics. Children are educated in life lessons for this life, and beyond. Catholic Schools provide faith formation and teach life time values.

In a highly competitive world, our children need every advantage that they can receive in their education. It is essential for children to know who they are and where they are going.

Our next generation of leaders will need to have values to make decisions that will affect their families, communities, and the world at large. Catholic schools provide that leadership and guidance. Graduates from Catholic schools know how to discern right from wrong, know how to respect others, and understand the value of life in all stages.

As far as academics are concerned, the graduates from St. Louise are prepared for secondary education and beyond. Our eldest daughter, who is a high school sophomore and honor student, still talks about how well St. Louise prepared her. Students who attend Catholic schools consistently score well above average on achievement tests. The teaching staff at St. Louise is dedicated and knows how to make education fun.

We would encourage parents to come and see all that St. Louise has to offer.

Mr. and Mrs. Theodore F. Watylyk, Jr.
North Riverside