St. Catherine Laboure School

If you just walked into one of the Kindergarten classes, you would see first hand how special this school is. Students are groomed at such a young age to strive for your very best. They are taught how to apply academic excellence, faith and integrity in all areas. This school teaches the "whole" child and this is the place I want my children to be. Way to Go!
--Submitted by a parent

After attending K-5 at a top public elem. in our area, words can't express how impressed we are! Teachers are truly dedicated and the V.P. and P. are both outstanding/committed educators of the *whole* child. Still in awe - they seem to have thought thru how best to do everything! Communication far exceeds what we've seen in our former school & we can actually see every grade on every assignment as it happens. Middle school does an outstanding job of creating an atmosphere where each child is valued. Bullying is virtually nonexistant. I've seen kids who were teased in our former school cultivated as school leaders, sharing in opportunities to serve school, community and charities. They are so good at raising self esteem in these kids. To me, the middle school academics are on par with JR college. Challenge to adjust from public school but the kids hit honor roll by 7th Gr.
--Submitted by a parent

We love this school. The principal and her staff are committed, kind and involved. They contribute so much to both the students and making this a great academic environment. The teachers are great (though it is our first year at this school) and they offer a higher standard of curriculum I did not find after interviewing other schools within this area. My child has learned so much even within the first half of the school year. The only negative comment I have about this school is with their church wide fundraising efforts. They seem a bit ineffective and unorganized, but otherwise, the education, teachers and administrative staff and even parents are great!
--Submitted by a parent

Like all of us GreatSchools parents, I spent a lot of time researching and debating to which school I should send my child. St. Catherine met all of the standard criteria - academically rigorous, safe, diverse. They offer small class sizes, extracurricular activities, before and after school care, and a summer enrichment program. But what sealed the deal for me is the people. From the principal to the custodian, from preschool through 8th grade, each teacher I've met, each parent I've talked to, has been so warm and friendly. It truly feels like we are apart of one big family. My son is excited to go to school each day. What more can a parent ask for?
--Submitted by a parent

There have been some changes to the school. They now offer low cost tutors after school who are all former students. This school is tough academically and these tutors have been lifesavers for many us. Starting fall 2011 they will also offer Spanish, along with Computer, Art, and PE to all students K-8. The kids are a little sad that the LA Archdiocese has extended the school year "in order to prepare our students for the global economy." But they are also really excited that grades 5 - 8 will have access to iPad's for use in the classroom next year.
--Submitted by a parent

Although this school offers a great academic and religious curriculum for our children, some of the teaching styles seem a little antiquated. Most of the teachers are great and seem to be very dedicated. The computer program they have there is excellent and the teacher rocks! There is, however, a small number teachers who've been there for many years that may need a refresher course on patience and fairness towards students. On the other hand, The principal is outstanding!!!! She is very supportive with parents and students and she is always available to parents. The vice-principal is just as great! I just wish st. catherine had extra resources or funds to provide our children with more field trips, music programs and/or after school tutoring.
--Submitted by a parent

St. Catherine Laboure school is a wonderful school! The Principal is dedicated and always thinks of the students first. The teachers are very dedicated. My child learns academic as well as moral and catholic values. I just wished the school went up to 12th grade. Keep up the good work St. Catherine Laboure!
--Submitted by a parent

St.Catherine Laboure is a great school.Everybody is nice to you.When you go back to public after going here everything is so easy.They have a great student body.
--Submitted by a former student

I believe this school needs more support for students and parents. I currently have 2 children attending this school and when we have needed extra academic help there was none available to us. They don't supply any tutoring after school for kids that are struggling. The school belive's it's up to the parents to supply any extra academic help and when you're working it's difficult to get your children to outside tutoring. The principal needs to realize mothers don't stay home anymore and we need help from our schools.
--Submitted by a parent

One of the best schools in Torrance is St. Catherine Laboure School. The principal is super and teachers are dedicated. I could not ask for more. What a blessing to all of us who desire quality education! Parents are incredibly helpful and the pastor is warm and kind. Great school!
--Submitted by a teacher