subject: Choosing a Catholic School in Orange County [print this page] Choosing a Catholic School in Orange County
If you are looking for a Catholic school in Orange County, you are in luck. The Diocese of Orange is home to 45 Catholic elementary schools and 7 Catholic high schools. With so many options, parents may not know where to begin their Catholic school search. Here are some helpful tips.
Check your Local Parish
Many parishes in Orange County have their own parochial school for grades kindergarten through eight. Your local parish school can be a great choice because it is probably close to home and your family is already a part of the wider parish community. Check with your parish office to see if your parish has a school and if there are any openings in your child's grade.
Visit the Diocese of Orange Catholic Schools Website
The Diocese of Orange provides wonderful online resources to help you explore your options in finding a Catholic school in Orange County. Log on to www.OCCatholicSchools.org to find information on the Diocese's curriculum, programs, and more. While you are there, use their "Find a School" tool to find a Catholic school in Orange County based on several key factors, such as city and grade level. Click on each school for basic details like location, enrollment, and web address.
Research Catholic Schools Online
Visit the websites of each Orange County Catholic school in your area. Read about the school's mission, charism, and program offerings to see if the school may be a good fit for your child. Be aware that Orange County has several private Catholic schools (not associated with a parish) which offer special programs. Orange County is also home to two Catholic boarding schools if you are unable to find a Catholic school that meets your child's needs in your immediate area.
Visit the School
Once you've narrowed down your list, schedule tours at several schools. Orange County Catholic schools are known for their hospitality. During a tour, your will be able to meet school staff and see the campus. See if you can schedule your tour on a day when there is school Mass. Stay for the liturgy so you can experience a bit of the life of the school.
