School enrollment continues to climb

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Anne Marie Amacher
Bishop Dennis Walsh visits Stacie DeVries’ second-grade classroom at All Saints Catholic School in Davenport Jan. 15. Gaelle Agbofin asks bishop a question while Willa Nobis waits her turn.

By Anne Marie Amacher
The Catholic Messenger

Enrollment in Catholic schools in the Diocese of Davenport has grown by more than 180 students this academic year — 4,425 students in grades kindergarten through 12 compared with 4,239 students last year. Numbers are up for a variety of reasons, including the availability of Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), according to diocesan Superintendent Lynne Devaney.

“Our Catholic schools have witnessed an increase in enrollment, a testament to the positive influence of the Education Savings Account (ESA) program. The ESA program is designed to provide families with educational choice. It is gratifying to see parents take advantage of all of their educational options in Iowa. We are delighted to welcome a diverse student body, which enriches our school communities. The increased enrollment has enabled us to examine how we will expand our offerings and enhance the overall educational experience,” she said.

“It is important to note that with the influx of new families we are committed to nurturing the spiritual, intellectual and social development of all of our students, guided by the principles of Catholic education. As we continue to grow, we remain dedicated to our mission of providing a faith-based education that prepares students for future success. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the families who have entrusted us with their children’s education and to the supporters of the ESA program for making this growth possible.”

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John F. Kennedy Catholic School in Davenport is one example. The school experienced an increase of 44 students in the past year. “In these first two years of ESAs, we have seen capacities being reached at kindergarten and first grade in particular,” said Principal Chad Steimle. “A number of students transferred back to JFK from public schools,” he added. “They often did not want to leave us in the first place but tuition costs forced their hand. Now they can come back to JFK because Catholic schools are again affordable to them.”

Steimle believes another growth factor is the desire of families to find the right fit for their children. Inquiries are picking up for the next academic year for K-8, preschool and wraparound childcare, he said.

Assumption High School in Davenport welcomed 26 additional students. “We see enrollment fluctuations from year to year for a variety of reasons but the increase this year is definitely on the higher side relative to past increases,” Principal Bridget Murphy said.

“There is no question that finances play a role for families when making decisions regarding schooling. Having the ability to consider all options for schools has given students and parents a healthy motivation to better understand what is available to them,” Murphy said.

“We have worked for years to make the financial piece of Catholic education possible for all students and families who desire it.  That said, the conversation surrounding ESA funding has created visibility for available assistance and families are more aware than ever of their ability to discern the best fit when it comes to choosing a school,” Murphy added.

The high school has fewer worries about class capacity restrictions than elementary and middle schools because the older students take a variety of classes and are not centered in one classroom. “We will do whatever we can to accommodate those who desire to be a part of our school community,” Murphy said. “We host quarterly information sessions for families who are looking to learn more about the educational opportunity at Assumption and we will begin accepting student applications for next school year later this month.”

Erik Buchholz, principal of St. James Catholic School in Washington, said enrollment grew by 13 students this academic year and 22 over the past two years. “Probably four of those came because of ESAs,” he said. Four new students moved to the area with their families. “I would say most students come to St. James because their parents want them to have a Christian-based education.” St. James is at capacity for kindergarten and second grade. “We needed to add an associate with 22 students in kindergarten.” The school is building its list for next school year, he added.

All Iowa resident K-12 students for the 2025-26 school year are eligible for ESAs. Families must apply each year. ESA applications will open later this spring, according to the Iowa Department of Education website.

 

 


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