There is a process!
Mistake #1: Choosing a school without doing research.
Public or private, choosing a high school is an important step in a young person’s life. When moving from middle school to a secondary school, parents and students really should take the time to evaluate the options available. Too often, parents default to choosing one school, without much thought. Approach the process with an open mind. You have a choice! Start by investigating the school’s website. Do they have information about admissions? Do they have a clear mission and purpose? Call the school and speak with the admissions director. Ask questions. Do they have quality academic programs? What is their graduation rate. How many students move on to post-secondary education. Speak with coaches and activity directors. Are they qualified, and are they able to help their students grow? Talk to teachers. Do they love their job?
Mistake #2: A shadow visit is not scheduled.
This is a big one. The best way to discover what a high school is really all about is to “shadow.” Shadowing means that a prospective student spends a school day following a current high school student. The experience can be compared to test driving a new car. How do you know if the car is the the right one to purchase if you never drive it? LIkewise, how do you know if the high school is the correct fit if you never shadow? A high school should be not chosen solely because the school is new, or its team won a championship, or your friend is going there. A high school should be chosen because it fits the student’s needs and interests, and it feels like home.
Mistake #3: A meeting with the financial aid office is skipped.
All too often, parents decide that they cannot afford the tuition of a private school. Many times, that is not the case at all. For example, Gross Catholic has what is called an “Individual Tuition Plan.” The financial office evaluates each family individually and makes every effort to make Gross Catholic affordable. A Gross Catholic education is a phenomenal investment. If a student truly wants to attend Gross Catholic, we can make it happen.
There you have it, the 3 biggest mistakes that people make when choosing a high school.
Be sure to consider Gross Catholic in your high school search.
We believe that we are the best high school on the planet. Everyone can find a place here within the Cougar Family. We are sponsored by the Marianists, which means we are faith-filled and believe that the Blessed Virgin Mary holds a special place in our heart. We provide every student with an outstanding education. In fact, studies show that students who attend Catholic high schools like Gross Catholic receive higher scores on their ACT tests. Additionally, our co-educational environment allows our students to learn and grow together in a way that truly prepares them for the world beyond high school, where men and women are called to work and collaborate together.
Another one of our unique strengths is that our students are very involved in activities and sports. A majority of students are involved in more than one activity. This allows students to explore many talents at once, and, they are able to find success in all arenas.
It’s never too late to do your research, make an appointment to shadow at Gross Catholic, and meet with our business office. Find out for yourself why a Gross Catholic education is priceless.
Choose Great! Choose Gross Catholic!
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