A deep reverence for each person’s unique gifts. Individualized learning. Academic rigor and excellence. Extracurricular activities that expand the mind and spirit. And a safe, vibrant and diverse environment.
What’s so great about a private Catholic school? When it comes to achievement and nurturing the whole student – in a time when the world so desperately needs competent leadership with a moral compass – schools like ours provide structure and humanity for truly effective learning.
And here at Archbishop Walsh Academy and Southern Tier Catholic School, we’re not shy about sharing these benefits. Enrolling your child(ren) in a private Catholic school is the most fruitful path to a quality education and, ultimately, the brightest possible future.
The Benefits of Enrolling in a Private Catholic School for the 21st Century
We offer an integrated Montessori early childhood program through 12th grade International Baccalaureate education that’s rigorous, individualized and inclusive of everyone, no matter their background or faith.
Here’s a little more on what you can expect from a private Catholic school.
Individualized Learning
We make sure students experience an environment that cultivates discovery, critical thinking and personal growth. Education done right is personal and individualized. How do they learn best? Are they visual or auditory learners, or do they prefer to get more hands-on? We accomplish this easily and organically through small class sizes – with an average student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1. (But some classes even have 10 or fewer.)
Each student is not a number, but rather a person who deeply matters to us. We desire to see students succeed – and we make sure they get everything they need to make that happen.
Additionally, an Academic Intervention Services teacher provides enrichment and remediation for students in kindergarten through fourth grades. This helps students to better understand certain subject material with which they may struggle. We all need a little help. Individualized learning makes that easier.
Academic Excellence
Look no further than these stats: 100 percent of Walsh students graduate and 94 percent of students attend college. Our students are the cream of the crop – and we walk along with them every step of the way. Our teachers and educational experts use tried-and-true teaching practices, advanced curriculum, extracurricular programs and engaging educational technology for the 21st century.
We also offer the only International Baccalaureate Programme within 100 miles of Olean, NY. The IB curriculum is intended to develop lifelong learners who thrive and make a difference. It’s also the reason so many of our students – both local and international – have gone on to attend America’s top-tier colleges and universities. Our students have traditionally found excellent post-secondary homes in renowned places like Georgetown University, Holy Cross and our beloved Catholic neighbor St. Bonaventure University.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Students can take part in many after-school clubs and team sports like baseball, soccer and basketball. Archbishop Walsh athletics have a storied tradition of winning, but most importantly, it’s the friendships and lessons learned along the way that have the most profound impact. We encourage students to explore interests inside and outside the classroom.
Vibrant, Safe & Diverse Environment
We uphold respect and kindness toward one another and protect and honor each other’s rights, dignity and individual differences. Our student backgrounds include Asian, Middle Eastern, Native American, Hispanic, African American and European. And you won’t just find Catholics at our school. We welcome students from other traditions such as Protestant, Native American, Hindu, Muslim and others unaffiliated with a named faith.
We appreciate and respect the traditions of all ethnic cultures. We also look to foster an environment that provides character development and responsible citizenship; a policy of effective social action intended to bring about peace and justice in the greater community; and a place of stability in a challenging world.
Financial Assistance
Costs can be a concern with a private education. However, more than 70 percent of families at Walsh receive financial aid, discounts and/or scholarships. We make sure that any family who desires a Walsh education can enroll through a package best fitting their financial situation.
Private Catholic School: A Purposeful & Fulfilling Alternative to Education Today
Our purpose is to develop confident leaders and lifelong learners who will thrive throughout their lifetime. Each day, our dedicated teachers, administrators and support staff inspire a love of learning and ensure each student maximizes his or her potential.
So come see what Archbishop Walsh and Southern Tier Catholic School have to offer. Book a tour. Let’s get to know each other!