St Leo Catholic School (FFX City) (Fairfax, Vienna: high schools, moving to, activities)

[Marty23]

I've searched the NoVA threads to no avail to find any information about St. Leo the Great Catholic School in (City of) Fairfax. We are interested in moving to FFX City and sending our children there; we are Catholic and want a religious environment for our children.

The only "down side" I have heard is that they give a lot of homework and there is some form of demerit system for more than 2 missed homework assignments. We toured the school and liked what we saw, but it would be helpful to get the perspectives--good, bad, etc.--of any current/former St. Leo's parents. Specifically, how you felt the social atmosphere was for the children; how preparation for high school went; and information on which high schools St. Leo grads attend, including how they fare academically in high school. Also, any information on how you feel the spiritual preparation is at St. Leo's, since that is equally important, and any information on activities available--music, sports, etc.

Finally, any information on the parish itself would be welcome. We are looking for a more traditional parish and St. Leo's appears to fit the bill, but also ministries/volunteer opportunities, and general community feel would be good to know about.

We don't know anyone personally in the area to ask, so I appreciate any input. Thank you!

[Middlin]

My friends kids went St Leo's for eight years and currently at Paul VI for HS. My friend and her husband were raised Catholic but would say that they are "Catholic light" and never felt pressured or judged. The congregation has a large Spanish speaking population and believe that they hold a some Mass's in Spanish. Their kids are juniors and have had a really positive experience.

[MedvedActual]

Do not belong to that parish currently but have been to masses there numerous times as well as got married there several years ago. I really like it. Sorry, do not have any info on volunteer opportunities.

[Middlin]

Just to add, Paul VI will moving to Loudoun County (South Riding) in 2020. It's current location is in Fairfax City

[Marty23]

Thanks for these replies! I am glad to hear thus far that people's experiences have been positive.

I had heard about the Paul VI move to South Riding, thanks! Our kids are small and would be just starting out in school, so high school (while it comes up fast, no doubt!) is still a ways off for us

[Ffxdata]

Most of the ministries and volunteer opportunities are listed on their website. They have an active moms group with an active listserv. As far as schools, people enter go to St. Leo's or St. Mark's in Vienna. They seems pretty similar though, so it's apples to apples.