Catholics of all ages with varying abilities are integral members of our faith community.
Parishes
All parishes are called to adapt their programs to the diverse needs of our children, youth, young adults and families.
Parishes, in consultation with families, assess the needs of the individual and provide guidance on how best to minister to each person. Some options include Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, one-on-one instruction, mainstream instruction with additional support, and home-schooled. For individuals preparing to receive the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist), parishes may adapt the celebration.
Each parish community may offer additional programs to assist and support families, including learning activities, Masses, or service projects.
Families in need of support should contact their local parish faith formation office.
Catholic Schools
Catholic schools in the Diocese work hard to meet the individual needs of each student in a faith-filled, nurturing school community. Using research-based best practices, teachers work to differentiate instruction to ensure that each student reaches his or her fullest potential.
A number of Catholic schools have Learning Support Programs that provide additional services to students that have identified needs. These programs vary from school to school but are designed to provide appropriate accommodations to students that have special learning needs. While schools do not discriminate against students with special needs, a full range of services may not always be available to them, due to the resources a particular school may have at its disposal.
We encourage parents to contact individual schools to find out what services they offer and discuss the needs of their child.
The following schools in the diocese have Learning Support Programs:
- All Hallows Academy
- Notre Dame Academy
- Our Lady of Grace
- St. Francis
- St. John School
- St. James School
- St. Michael’s School
- Stella Maris Academy
- Cathedral Catholic High School
- Mater Dei Catholic High School
- Good Shepherd
- Sacred Heart Parish School
- St. Martin of Tours
- St. Charles Borromeo
- Holy Trinity School
- St. Pius X School
- Nazareth School
- St. Katharine Drexel Academy
- St. Rita’s School
- Santa Sophia Academy