PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION

St. Lawrence O'Toole is a Christian community where education is based on Catholic beliefs and principles. An atmosphere is provided in which children are encouraged and assisted to take their places as Christians in society. The students, teachers, and administrative staff of the school are made an integral part of the larger community of St. Lawrence O'Toole Parish by participating in the parish’s liturgical, prayer, and service life. Nourished by an active faith and empowered with knowledge, we strive to live the Gospel message of loving service to others.

WE BELIEVE that students are unique individuals who are created in God’s image. We will:

• respect the uniqueness of each child,
• encourage students to work to their fullest potential,
• provide an atmosphere of mutual respect between children and adults to encourage understanding and cooperation, and
• foster in each child a feeling of self-esteem and love of others.

WE BELIEVE that teachers and administrative staff must work together to fashion a curriculum which fosters the development of all students. We will:

• provide a Catholic elementary education that is academically challenging and prepares students for a successful high school education,
• provide a well-balanced, up-to-date curriculum,
• teach the Catholic faith through a religious education program, and
• challenge students to apply Gospel values in their daily lives.

WE BELIEVE that the school is a place where children and adults communicate and work together in an atmosphere of mutual respect. We further believe that students learn in different ways. We will:

· actively involve students in their own learning process,

• provide for spiritual growth and strong academic skills,
• encourage students to strive for excellence and to take responsibility for their own learning,
• teach that the most important motivation comes from within,
• foster the idea that students learn best when they are trusted and respected,
• develop each student’s critical thinking skills, and
• stress moral development and the teaching of Catholic values.

WE BELIEVE that the parents are the primary educators of their child. We will:

• work with parents to assure that there is a supportive home environment for learning,
• work together with parents to teach Christian values and traditions to each student, and
• communicate with parents to keep them informed about the progress of their child.