On Thursday, August 22, the Catholic Diocese of Arlington will welcome 18,348 students back to school throughout its preschools, elementary schools, and high schools.

“This year, students are returning to school as we celebrate the Golden Jubilee anniversary of our diocese with the theme, ‘Behold, I Make All Things New.’ I often encourage students with these words from Sacred Scripture, especially at the beginning of a new school year, when new classes, new friends, and new opportunities present themselves,” said Bishop Michael F. Burbidge.

“It is also at this beginning time that parents, teachers, administrators, counselors, and coaches renew their commitment to providing for the spiritual, intellectual, physical and emotional needs of students in our Catholic schools. I am so grateful for these sacrifices made in support of Catholic education in our diocese.”

Some highlights of Arlington Catholic schools:

  • There is a renewed emphasis on the “No Cell Phone” policy throughout schools. The policy has been in place for several years and is receiving elevated attention as schools seek to ensure an optimal learning environment is maintained throughout the day.
  • St. Ambrose Catholic School’s dual-language immersion program continues to be implemented by adding second grade students this year. St. Ambrose is the only dual-language immersion Catholic school in the state of Virginia.
  • 19 schools have programs for students with intellectual disabilities, illustrating our continuing diocesan commitment to serving all God's children.
  • Approximately $7 million in aid has been distributed to families in need so their children can receive a faith-based education.
  • There has been an increase in enrollment at 54% of all diocesan schools, including a 4% increase at diocesan high schools.

“We are blessed in the Diocese of Arlington to have so many talented Catholic educators, active pastors and chaplains, and generous partners supporting parents who have sought the opportunity of a Catholic education for their children,” said Dr. Joseph E. Vorbach III, superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Arlington.

“We are excited about the variety of ways we are working to further strengthen Catholic education through curricular enhancements, teacher professional development, greater support for students with disabilities, and the provision of needs-based tuition assistance across our schools!”

While most diocesan schools have waiting lists, enrollment is dynamic. Interested families are encouraged to make inquiries with their local Catholic schools. For more information on Catholic schools in the Diocese of Arlington, visit https://www.arlingtondiocese.org/catholic-schools/why-choose-catholic-schools/.

Media interested in covering diocesan back-to-school activities should contact Mary Shaffrey, director of media relations at 703-841-2517 or [email protected].