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How Many Private Religious Schools Are There?

By Robert Kennedy, About.com

Academy of the Holy Family

Academy of the Holy Family

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Question: How Many Private Religious Schools Are There?
Religious schools keep family values and traditions alive. If your religion is a priority in your life, then you more than likely have thought about sending your child to a religious school. We are very lucky in this country because we have so many sectarian schools. They literally cover every sect known. Some are very relaxed in their practice of and approach to religion. Others practice and proclaim their beliefs with the fervor of religious zealots. The choice is yours!
Answer: The Roman Catholic Church has approximately 8,000 schools under its oversight. Jesuits, Franciscans and dozens of other religious orders operate K-12 schools which adhere strictly to their values and principles. Most Roman Catholic dioceses also operate schools within their legal boundaries.

Over 1,000 Christian schools can be found in just about every state. While some Christian schools were established during the civil rights era as a not so subtle way of keeping people of color excluded, fortunately that kind of racism has pretty much disappeared. Christian schools enjoy a good reputation for strong academics and faith-based religious education.

Adventists, Baptists, Presbyterians, Quakers and Episcopalians all operate schools which follow their religious tenets and practice. There are over 8,000 Jewish schools available. In short, you can find a school which will be compatible with your religious beliefs and practice. It just takes a bit of looking. Use Private School Finder to help you target schools.

Need some help finding the right school for your child? Read Choosing a School 101.

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