Access to Catholic Schools Should Be For Every Child

By: Ricky Austin

As we make our way through Catholic Schools Week 2025, I can’t help but smile thinking about the joy and energy that is filling Catholic schools this week. From school Masses and service projects to the ever-popular dress-up days, this week is a celebration of the unique spirit and community found in parochial schools across the country. It’s an important week, although admittedly, we know it can be a tad “out of routine” for parents and teachers alike. I’m aware that some Aim Higher Foundation team members have been making last-minute Target runs for just the right sparkle, mismatched socks, or team spirit gear—a true testament to the spirit of the Catholic school story: we’ll do whatever it takes for the children!

Ricky Austin is the president of the Aim Higher Foundation.

Beyond the fun, this week has been a powerful reminder of the lifelong impact Catholic schools have in shaping not just bright, thoughtful, and caring students, but faith-filled leaders for the future. Across the 80 schools where the Aim Higher Foundation supports scholars, we’ve seen countless examples of students giving back to their communities, deepening their faith, and excelling in their studies—all made possible by the gift of a Catholic school education.

At the Aim Higher Foundation, we believe that Catholic schools do more than prepare children for academic success. They shape young hearts and minds and equip students with the resilience and moral clarity needed to navigate an often-complicated world. The value proposition of a Catholic education is clear: rigorous academics, second-to-none character formation, and an unwavering commitment to the needs of the whole child, all infused with the beauty of the Catholic faith. It’s an all-of-the-above, no tradeoffs opportunity for children and a recipe for life-long success.

We also believe at the Aim Higher Foundation that access to Catholic schools should be available for every single family that desires it for their children. Yet we know, for too many families, the opportunity to attend a Catholic school remains out of reach. As we celebrate Catholic Schools Week, let us also stay focused on the importance of expanding access to these schools. Every child deserves an educational environment where they are known, loved, and supported in their academic and personal growth. Together, we can ensure that more families have the scholarships and support they need to overcome the barrier of tuition, empowering them with the opportunity to choose a Catholic school.

Join the Catholic Schools Week Scholarship Giveaway

Enter the Scholarship Giveaway for Catholic Schools Week 2025! Anyone can submit an entry on behalf of a Catholic school family in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis.

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