The Catholic schools in the Diocese of Memphis, in accordance with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, are committed to quality education, in an environment of spiritual, intellectual and moral formation, in which faith, culture and life are brought into harmony.

Stand Firm In Faith; Be People Of Courage; Be Strong
(1 Corinthians 16:13)

DIOCESE OF MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE

SYSTEM OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

MISSION STATEMENT

The Catholic Diocese of Memphis, Tennessee, System of Catholic Schools is committed to quality education in the spirit of Christ in accordance with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. Working in partnership with parents and families, we are dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment while preparing our students for the future through spiritual, intellectual, physical and emotional formation.

BELIEF STATEMENTS

1. Students need to develop a deep understanding of essential knowledge and skills, but also need to develop the capacity to apply their learning and to reason, solve problems and produce quality work.
2. Each student is a valued individual with unique spiritual, physical, social, emotional and intellectual needs.
3. A safe, supportive and nurturing learning environment promotes student achievement.
4. A chief priority of our Catholic system is education in the Catholic faith and the faith development of our students.
5. Achievement of high academic standards is expected of all students.
6. Worship, the sacraments and prayer are essential components of the Catholic schools.
7. The success of our school system depends on the commitment of all staff {administration, teachers, and support staff} to high quality standards, expectations and performances.
8. Effective collaboration and communication with families as partners in the education of their children is essential to the success of our school system.
9. Catholic schools recognize parents and families as the primary educators of their children.
10. The development of curriculum, design of instructional activities and the use of assessment measures are focused on learning opportunities and feedback to assist student achievement.

VISION OF SYSTEM-WIDE STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

I. SPIRITUAL AND MORAL FORMATION

1. Students have a basic understanding of the Catholic faith and express their faith in God through Catholic worship and prayer.
2. Students form correct consciences in order to maintain a moral and spiritual code of conduct that is rooted in Gospel values.
3. Students understand Christian stewardship which motivates them to give generously of their time, talent, and treasure to Church and community.

II. PERSONAL AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

1. Students demonstrate an understanding of their responsibility to serve their Church and community and are prepared to assume leadership roles.
2. Students take responsibility for their actions and decisions and understand and accept consequences, both positive and negative.
3. Students develop the ability to make wise personal decisions that reflect healthy lifestyle choices.
4. Students develop a sense of commitment to serving the needs of others through involvement in service-based community programs.
5. Students understand and appreciate cultural diversity and social responsibility.
6. Students believe the school to be a safe, secure environment, conducive to learning.

III. INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

1. Students interact and work with others in a manner that reflects self-discipline and acceptance of personal responsibility.
2. Students demonstrate mutual respect and concern for others through a climate of self-control and discipline that promotes self-worth.
3. Students handle disagreement in a way that respects the worth and dignity of each person, while learning tolerance of opinions and acceptances of differences.
4. Students establish positive working relationships with their parents, teachers and peers.
5. Students work together cooperatively to build consensus.

IV. EXPANDING AND INTEGRATING KNOWLEDGE

1. Students have problem solving skills which enable them to think critically and use multiple problem solving strategies.
2. Students are independent thinkers and participate in authentic learning experiences which connect education to practical experiences.
3. Students use multi-sensory approaches to enhance learning, promote creativity, and engage in a variety of problem-solving skills

V. THINKING AND REASONING SKILLS

1. Students connect information and experiences from different subject areas and apply this knowledge to solve problems and complete tasks.
2. Students generate creative ideas and take the initiative to pursue topics and conduct research.

VI. LEARNING TO LEARN SKILLS

1. Students have a strong academic foundation as a result of a challenging curriculum.
2. Students use the appropriate research skills to access and retrieve information.
3. Students have proficient skills in the areas of multi-media communication and technology.

VII. COMMUNICATION SKILLS

1. Students have the oral and written communication skills which enable them to convey information effectively.
2. Students integrate technology and multi-media skills in communication.
3. Students have the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly technological world.

All Catholic Schools are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.