Catholic Elementary Schools in St. Louis (Webster Groves, Paris: house, buying, catholic schools)

[scgvcd]

Could someone give me an honest overview of the Catholic Elementary schools that are located in or near Webster Groves? Do some have better academics, better reputations, different teaching methods than others? I would love to find a school that has high standards, but is also a place where children love to go to school everyday. I'd also like to find a school that offers Spanish, arts programs, and a worthwhile after school program. I can't seem to find many discussions that openly compare schools. Thanks!

[STLviaMSP]

Not to go off topic, but Webster has awesome public schools that probably exceed the quality of most private schools. Is there a specific reason you are looking for private?

[scgvcd]

Originally Posted by STLviaMSP

Not to go off topic, but Webster has awesome public schools that probably exceed the quality of most private schools. Is there a specific reason you are looking for private?

I'd like my daughters to attend an all girl's school for middle school and possibly high school. Also looking for a school that emphasizes a connection to learning and a religious/world view. We're not Catholic, but I'm more inclined towards a school that promotes a sense of purpose and importance in relation to service and helping others.

[stlma]

My daughters went to Villa Duchesne and had a great combo of academics, and community service. The tuition is quite high by there is financial assistance. I would recommend at least a tour and also have your daughters spend a day there as a visitor.

Visitation Academy also comes to mind -- we chose Vila over it as it was a better fit for our daughters....but everyone has different perspectives.

[st. louie louie]

St. Margaret of Scotland. Though it's in the city.
And Nerinx Hall HS in Webster.

[MUTGR]

Originally Posted by scgvcd

Could someone give me an honest overview of the Catholic Elementary schools that are located in or near Webster Groves? Do some have better academics, better reputations, different teaching methods than others? I would love to find a school that has high standards, but is also a place where children love to go to school everyday. I'd also like to find a school that offers Spanish, arts programs, and a worthwhile after school program. I can't seem to find many discussions that openly compare schools. Thanks!

I can't answer your specific questions but we know many people in Mary Queen of Peace parish (MQP) and everyone seems to think highly of it. We've also heard good things about Holy Redeemer. To add a bit, MQP is a very large and vibrant parish. It seems to be highly sought after-I know several area catholics who make home buying decisions simply to be in that parish.

I realize that doesn't tell you about the academics per se, but if they were poor, I doubt it would be that popular. I can attest that they have a great trivia night!

[SouthCityGal]

I can't recommend a specific school. However, this Sunday Jan. 26th kicks off Catholic Schools Week for many local parishes, many of which will host an open house where you can tour the school and find out more. This would be a great opportunity for you to visit schools near your desired area. Just call ahead and see if they're participating.

Please note that many Catholic schools in the city and the inner suburbs are affected by population and demographic shifts. Many are faced with the possibility of collaborating in the future. Annunciation Parish in Webster Groves is part of a collaboration with two other schools called Holy Cross Academy. I believe there were originally four schools in this academy, but one had to shut down due to low enrollment and high costs. I only mention this to you as a heads up in case you choose a school already collaborating, or one that might be not far down the road.

Overall, I think you will get a decent Catholic education at the elementary level at any local Catholic school. Good luck!