Why Catholic Schools?


Archdiocese of Baltimore

Archdiocese of Baltimore Catholic Schools

Vision Statement

Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore nurture and sustain the God-given gifts of every person, especially students, to be used in service to the Mission of Jesus.

Mission Statement

Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore provide a Christ-centered education that is academically excellent and empowers students to reach their full potential spiritually, intellectually, physically, socially, and morally. Fostered through robust collaboration among all stakeholders, the mission is accomplished through accountable leadership at all levels, ongoing and coordinated strategic planning, centralized efficiencies, and financial sustainability.

At OLPH School, our faith is the heart of all that we do, the reason why we exist.  What makes a Catholic school different from a public school is not simply the addition of a course called Religion.  The real difference is found in the underlying philosophy, our faith-filled outlook on the world that sees God as the author and center of all things, the very reason they exist.  In Him everything finds its meaning.


The difference, then, is this:  We believe that you can’t fully appreciate the truth, beauty and goodness of the created world without knowing the Creator.

This is what makes a Catholic school different from a public school.


So as we teach our children about the world around us through science, literature, math and the arts, we let all things point back to the Lord who made them.  This means that our students don’t learn simply how a plant grows, but something of the why, the deeper question that faith helps us to answer.  Our students learn not only how to write well, but of the power of their words and why God gives us this gift:  to build one another up in love and to give expression to our relationship with Him.

Is a Catholic school right for your child and your family?

  • Faith and values based learning environment
  • A holistic education – academic, spiritual, social, emotional and physical development
  • Welcoming, inclusive and family-oriented environment
  • High standards of behavior and respect for self and others
  • Safe and caring environment
  • Sense of belonging and community
  • Nurturing and development of individuals and their abilities
  • Quality learning and teaching
  • Strong academic reputation
  • Broad curriculum and co-curricular options
  • Well-resourced and equipped classrooms with full technological integration
  • Development of life-long skills and a love of learning
  • Strong links with parents and community
  • Commitment to social justice
  • Preparation for a life of worth, not simply a life of work