Students, teachers and staff at schools throughout the Diocese of Dallas are celebrating National Catholic Schools Week, January 29 – February 4.

The first Catholic school, Sacred Heart Cathedral Elementary, opened its doors in the Diocese of Dallas in 1874.

Today, there are almost 14,000 students enrolled in the 36 schools in the Diocese of Dallas school system led by Associate Superintendent Dr. Veronica Alonzo.

According to the National Catholic Educational Association, enrollment in Catholic schools has rebounded during the 2021—2022 school year and for some schools, Catholic Schools within the Diocese of Dallas new enrollment has reached record levels since the pandemic.

“Despite the challenges of recent years, Catholic school students significantly outperformed their peers in 4th and 8th-grade math and reading. Our Catholic schools have received 13 Blue Ribbon Awards over the past decade and we enjoy a 99 percent graduation rate. There is so much to be proud of within our Catholic Schools community,” explained Dr. Alonzo. “Our Catholic schools in collaboration with parents and guardians as the primary educators seek to educate the whole child by providing an academically excellent education rooted in Gospel values—one that is available, accessible and affordable to all who desire it.”

This year’s theme for Catholic Schools Week is “Catholic Schools: Faith. Excellence. Service” During this week, students participate in various activities to celebrate their faith, praise their academic excellence and share their commitment of service to others.