St. Gerard (Kirkwood) vs. St. Clement (Des Peres) (Paris: elementary schools, live)

[gracie97]

Hi! Just wondered if anyone can give me any insight into these two elementary schools and parishes? We live kind of between them and are trying to decide (irrespective of the parish boundary map). Is there one school that is better, or perhaps a parish that is more progressive or conservative? Thank you!

[flynavyj]

My advice would be to visit both Parishes for Mass over the next few weeks and make your decision. Going out of the Parish maps is pretty common around here. I did that as a kid, as my parents and I went to the Parish of their youth, and my Mom still does it as she really enjoys a priest just outside of her Parish. My wife and I currently attend our Parish church, and have found good and bad with regards to the Priests there, mostly in the style of their homily...the school will be about equal to most other Parish schools...meaning programs are typically lacking compared to the comparable public schools in the area...that's really my biggest complaint about the Parochial schools in the area, we pay a premium for less service than you get with the Public schools...however, you do gain the religious aspects of education, and if tradition is important, it's also great to be able to continue that.

[LAangel9190]

I have very little experience with St. Clement, but I have spent some time with the teens from St. Gerard's youth group and have found them to be great. Good, friendly kids. They have a great youth minister as well.
Also, I think that the religious aspect, small enrollment, and community feeling at parochial schools outweighs the nice facilities and other perks of public schools. If you're looking to be active in a parish, letting your children attend the parish school gives a great sense of well-rounded community involvement.

[flynavyj]

Originally Posted by LAangel9190

I have very little experience with St. Clement, but I have spent some time with the teens from St. Gerard's youth group and have found them to be great. Good, friendly kids. They have a great youth minister as well.
Also, I think that the religious aspect, small enrollment, and community feeling at parochial schools outweighs the nice facilities and other perks of public schools. If you're looking to be active in a parish, letting your children attend the parish school gives a great sense of well-rounded community involvement.

I'd definitely be willing to agree with that.

[MUTGR]

Originally Posted by gracie97

Hi! Just wondered if anyone can give me any insight into these two elementary schools and parishes? We live kind of between them and are trying to decide (irrespective of the parish boundary map). Is there one school that is better, or perhaps a parish that is more progressive or conservative? Thank you!

I've not heard any bad things about St. Clement mind you, but I know several families in St. Gerard and they all seem pleased with the parish and school. I've also heard good things about the head priest there, although I don't know his name.