CV NEWS FEED // Catholic schools in the Diocese of Pittsburgh have outperformed public schools on standardized tests and graduation rates in the past few years, according to a new report from the diocese.
In spring 2023, students in grades three through eight took the Iowa Assessment, an exam that “measures student performance and readiness for college or careers.”
“Diocese of Pittsburgh students across all grade levels exceeded the national average by 19-27% in English language arts and by 12-22% in mathematics,” the report stated.
While the report made no mention of how the diocesan high schools performed on standardized tests, it stated that 100% of high school students graduate. In addition, 99.5% of the diocese’s high schoolers are accepted to a 4-year college or university, with an average of $20 million collected in scholarships.
“Our teachers, staff and administrators worked and prayed alongside parents to keep our students on task and learning through some very challenging years,” Superintendent Michelle Peduto stated in a news release. “This shows not only in their test scores and 100% graduation rate, but in their love for Jesus and their commitment to serving their community and the world.”
According to the report, the diocese’s 45 Catholic elementary and high schools serve almost 13,000 students and employ over 1,000 teachers. The diocese ensures that faith is at the heart of the students’ education, as all students are required to attend Mass and take religion classes.
The schools also provide opportunities for students with special needs to receive a quality education. According to the news release, over 650 students receive support in some manner for “a diagnosed learning disability.”
“We strive to set our students on paths that lead to personal success, good character and love for their neighbors near and far,” Peduto said. “We invite every family who wants the best for their child to come and consider what Catholic schools can offer.”
