The Archdiocese of Miami is opening its doors once again, as they prepare to welcome a surge of students for the new academic year. Today, nearly 37,000 students are expected to return to Catholic schools across South Florida, with enrollment figures showing an increase of approximately 800 students from the previous year.
According to WSVN, the Archdiocese has been busy with preparations, with teachers and staff at the 65 schools under its wing getting classrooms and lesson plans ready. Dr. Jim Rigg, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Miami shared his optimism, stating, "So we have of course high expectations for our students and teachers, but we know were going to continue to deliver a wonderful education for all of our students."
Local10 provides a closer look, reporting that more than half of the Archdiocese's Catholic schools are now at full capacity, with waiting lists for admission. The uptick in enrollment marks the fifth consecutive year of growth for these institutions. This influx is contrasted with the estimated loss of nearly 8,000 students for Broward County Public Schools next year alone. New expansions were also highlighted, including an infant and Pre-K school at Saint Richard Church in Palmetto Bay.
"I am a believer that all families deserve to make a choice for their child’s education, and we’re fortunate enough to be in a state that prioritizes parental choice," Rigg emphasized to Local10. The increasing numbers indicate a trend of ongoing growth, with the Archdiocese projected to continue expanding in the foreseeable future.
Parents have been voicing their support for the Catholic school system, with one parent, Joanna Valdes, expressing to Local10 her desire for her son to experience the same educational foundation she did. "So I really wanted my son to go to Catholic school and just get that foundation, because I had it growing up and I think it’s really important," said Valdes.
