The last few years – and the last few decades – have been challenging for Catholic schools. Many schools operate at a loss. They take on the financial burden so that children in the community can get a good education, whether or not their families are wealthy.

In tough times like the pandemic, the strain gets even worse. Many schools closed, and many are at risk of closing.

But that’s not the story everywhere.

In Florida, Catholic schools rebounded quickly. And now, in Venice, enrollment is skyrocketing. The demand is thanks to how many schools stepped up to meet critical needs – and to school choice programs that help them do so.

With just days before the start of the 2022-2023 Academic Year, enrollment is up 25% over the start of this 2020-2021 Academic Year. That year was when Diocesan schools opened on-time during the height of the pandemic.

The Florida Step Up for Students scholarship program has aided in this enrollment effort. The program allows that a family of four making $111,000 or less can earn up to $8,000 scholarship toward Catholic school education of each child in the family. Dependent children of a member of the U.S. Armed Forces or law enforcement qualify for the scholarship regardless of income.

We’re fighting for a world in which every school that is serving its community can stay open.

Catholic schools are so important to the practical, moral, and academic needs of countless children.

School choice is the way to ensure these schools can thrive for the next generation.

PS: Click here to read a story of how school choice helped a former public educator ensure a good education for her boys in Miami