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Catholic schools in the Diocese of Dallas have been educating students for more than a
century, and for over 50 years in most Diocesan schools. Throughout these decades,
Diocesan elementary schools have borne the fruits of Catholic education: providing an
academically rigorous education within a Catholic worldview and strengthening both
the Catholic community and the wider society.
Without operational vitality, a school cannot be sustained
over time even if it has a strong Catholic identity, a
a challenging curriculum, and dedicated teachers and
parents. Since the beginning of Catholic education in the
Diocese of Dallas during the late 19th century, the financial
the model underpinning all elementary schools has been the
parish model. At the outset of the 21st century, the parish
the model continues to achieve operational vitality in our large
schools and many of our medium schools. Under this
model, a school’s revenue comes from tuition that, to a
large extent covers the cost of education when
supplemented by a substantial subsidy from its parish,
a dedicated endowment fund, fundraising, gifts, and other
sources of revenue.
Yet the parish model no longer can achieve operational
vitality in all Diocesan schools, most notably the small and
rural schools. These schools generally do not benefit from
economies of scale, sufficient tuition income, substantial
parish subsidy, endowments, and the like. Even though the
“per pupil cost” at the small and rural schools approximates
that of the medium and large schools, the academic
offerings and facilities generally do not afford the students
the same opportunities. This lack of financial resources
impacts both academic and operational effectiveness. And,
as if these challenges were not enough, the small schools
compete heavily with charter schools, which offer
education at no cost. Catholic education falls short of its
mission if its availability or academic excellence depends
on the size of the school, income level, or geography.
Saint Joseph Catholic School -Waxahachie
Mission Statement
Faithful to Gospel Values and Our Catholic Tradition, St. Joseph Catholic School's Mission is to Develop Spiritual, Intellectual, and Morally Responsible Leaders Through Academic Excellence, Social Growth, and Service to Others.
