PRESS RELEASE

January 23, 2004

Tallahassee, FL (Jan. 23, 2004) – The number of Florida Catholic schools has risen to 241, which represents the largest block of nonpublic schools within the state.
    That number, an increase of eight Catholic schools within the past year and 37 since 1994, is reflective of the “build it and they will come” philosophy.
    “Our history and mission are consistent with providing a Catholic school education, whenever possible, to wherever there are families who desire it for their children,” said Larry Keough, associate for education of the Florida Catholic Conference.
    Florida Catholic schools are reaching out to 94,847 students, which represent the largest enrollment of a nonpublic school association within the state. The enrollment supports the belief that parents continue to prioritize spirituality and academic excellence when selecting schools for their children.
    Although there are many factors why Catholic schools are recognized for their academic excellence, Keough said the requirement of accreditation in the early 1970s is regarded by Catholic school experts as creating a baseline of quality that has provided a foundation for student progress. Accreditation also has provided a strong accountability base for the 160 Catholic schools participating in the three statewide scholarship programs.
    Catholic school statistics were released in preparation of the Jan. 25-Jan. 31 national celebration of Catholic Schools Week. The week will be dedicated as a time for Catholic schools throughout the nation to reflect on their commitments, sacrifices and accomplishments to provide successful faith-oriented education. The theme for the week is, “A Faith-Filled Future.”
    Of the students in Florida Catholic schools, 27.6% are Hispanic, 5.5% are African-American and 2.47% are Asian. Approximately 10 percent of the students are non-Catholic.
    And, in an era of soaring educational costs, the average diocesan per pupil expenditure is $4,086 for elementary schools and $6,719 for high schools.