Core Values
With a focus on faith formation, challenging academics, and service to others, Volusia Catholic Schools are helping students prepare to meet the challenges of today’s global society. What sets us apart from other schools?
Faith & Values
Unique to Catholic schools is the opportunity to nurture the formation of each child by emphasizing the Gospel message throughout the curriculum and extracurricular activities, in addition to liturgy, prayer and attending Mass. Our schools strive to help children grow into Christ-like people, as they recognize Jesus in themselves and others. Students explore their faith through classes and activities in Scripture, Sacraments, Church and morality. Our teachers are role models, as they lovingly share their faith, time and talents, in helping students grow to their full potential. And while many of our students are not Catholic, all share in an understanding of faith and values. A faith-based orientation is key to integrating the schools into the larger community.
Academic Excellence
A Catholic education is a challenging education. Rigorous academics, high standards, and effective discipline set within a nurturing, learning atmosphere fosters excellence and student achievement. Our curriculum includes core classes in language arts, math and sciences, enhanced with technology and engineering (STEM) programs, and enriched in the fine arts, physical education and social studies, all infused with the Catholic faith. Our low teacher/student ratio enhances the learning experience. Eligible middle school students have the opportunity to take advanced coursework. Father Lopez High School students may advance their education on a more rigorous track through a variety of honors classes, advanced placement courses, and dual enrollment with Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and Barry University.
Students in religious schools enjoy a significant academic advantage over their counterparts in traditional public schools and charter schools. Students who attend religious schools score at an academic level about 12 months ahead of their traditional public school counterparts. (Findings from a meta-analysis of 90 studies on the effects of schools conducted by William Jeynes, senior fellow at the Witherspoon Institute in Princeton, New Jersey, and a professor at California State University, Long Beach. The study was published in issue 3 of volume 87 of the Peabody Journal of Education. 2013.)
Graduation & College Acceptance
In Volusia County, Father Lopez Catholic High School students receive a quality college preparatory education with a focus on civic responsibility and community service. 100% of Father Lopez students graduate and go on to pursue a college degree. The Class of 2020 earned more than $3 Million in college scholarships and awards, was accepted into prestigious colleges and universities throughout the U.S., and 26 students earned the Bright Futures Scholarship.
Hearts of Service
We believe that it is in sharing our gifts with others that we truly show gratitude to God. Service to others and an awareness of social justice issues are an integral part of each child’s formation. From our youngest of children, students are encouraged to share their time, gifts and talents through food, school supply, toy and clothing drives, to community clean-up projects, to missionary work in the mountains of our sister diocese in the Dominican Republic and more.
Safe, Secure Environment
Volusia County Catholic Schools are committed to providing a healthy, nurturing and safe school environment, where everyone respects and trusts one another, and where students feel connected, understand expectations, accept responsibility for their actions, and receive the support they need. Our campuses have limited access; all parents and visitors are required to check in at the main office in order to pick up the appropriate security lanyard before entering classrooms. Anyone working directly with the children must be fingerprinted and clear diocesan safety standards.
Athletics/Extracurriculars
Athletic and extracurricular activities are regarded as an important part of the Catholic education experience. Our schools offer something to appeal to all student interests, including religion, athletics, fine arts, performing arts, student government, social justice and community outreach, as well as a variety of clubs and organizations. Students develop a healthy sense of competition and spirit of cooperation, as well as leadership skills and creative outlets through appropriate social and cultural activities.
Family Environment
We recognize that parents are a child’s first teacher. Therefore, we are committed to working with them to raise leaders of tomorrow, who are faith-filled and prepared to succeed in an ever-changing global society. We encourage parents to find a meaningful way to be involved in their child’s educational journey. Our schools offer a multitude of opportunities — from monitoring the lunch room to serving on the school board — for parents to share their time, gifts and talent.