St. Patrick's Catholic School

I find this school to be more interested in it's reputation and numbers than helping individual students. The teachers gossip with other parents about their students. The principal talks in circles and does not address concerns of parents. It is difficult to volunteer and become a part of the community within the school. The communication between the teacher and parents is very poor. The acedemics are very good, but the educational experience as a whole is not very well rounded. They fall short in extracurricular activities and the social aspects of school. There is no gymnasium and sports are lacking. St Patrick's needs to focus more on the whole experience of school for the students, communicate better with parents and allow newcomers to get involved more easily.
--Submitted by a parent

St. Patrick's teachers provide incredible support to ensure the success of the students. The students are taught responsibility and given guidance in making the right choices. At the middle school level, which is a time when they have many compelling decisons to make, the spiritual guidance instilled in them gives them the strength to make the right choice. Academic options are broad and deep. The standard academic classes are coupled with the student being able to choose from areas that complement their strengths whether in music, robotics, leadership, ceramics or other areas of interest..
--Submitted by a parent

I can go on and on about the wonderful education my children have received at St Patrick's in Elkhorn. From the Science experiments in the outdoor green house, to the robotics courses, (St. Pats placed 5th in the world competition!) Spiritually and physically reaching across geographical maps to our sister school in Uganda showing our children and children of the world what it means "to teach as Jesus did" Teaching is more than helping children achieve a passing grade on a test. The teachers at St. Patrick's are some of the Best in the State of Nebraska, but their teaching skills go far beyond their chosen class subjects. Teaching character, honesty, and humility are as important...more so, than a science grade. Teaching life skills and responsibility to a Junior High child is a challenge for most of us these days and having a complete support system from the teachers, to the coaches, up to the principle and including our priests and Paster gives us a true network of support to ensure our children will graduate from 8th grade ready for the next level of challenges High School and life will bring not just academically, but spiritually, ethically, and morally as well.
--Submitted by a parent

Everyday I drop my children off at St. Patrick's Catholic School, I get a warm feeling in my heart. I know throughout the day they will be well taken care of by the amazing staff. They will be educated to their grade and beyond, as well as have the freedom to talk about their religion. It feels wonderful knowing they can get a great education while expanding spiritually in their hearts and minds. In todays world with all of the challenges our youth face, St. Patrick's offers such hope. One great example of the hope they offer is encouraging the St. Patrick's students and community to interact with St. Mary's in Uganda. St. Patrick's adopted a sister school from Uganda, Africa so the community could become involved in helping a less fortunate Catholic community grow. It is awesome to witness two schools that are worlds apart become one through education and faith. By giving hope to others across the globe, our children are learning valuable life lessons. What an amazing thing to learn!!! I will always be very thankful for making the decision to send my children to St. Patrick's school in Elkhorn.
--Submitted by a parent

We are a merged family that had children in District 66 and OPS. We had horrible experiences with the public system. We decided to send our 3 children to St. Patrick's. My wife and her children are not Catholic but my child and I are. St. Patrick's welcomed us openly. They have done an amazing job! The Principle has been very accessible to us and has been a big factor in making a transition. Academically, tough and the curriculum is rigorous but, they put each child in a class that matches their individual needs. They are very strong in Math and Science and, have an amazing Robotics program that is one of the top in the country. Still, one of my children was a very poor reader going into St. Patrick s and in one year turned around and aced the National test. I actually have had to tell her put the book down and go outside! Nice problem to have in my view! Teachers communicate on a regular basis with us and are easily accessible when I have questions. My children have embraced their new school and love it. There is a sense of pride in where they go and a desire to do their best. A complete night and day difference from their old schools. I would recommend this school!
--Submitted by a parent

My children have attended St. Pat's since Preschool - they are now in the middle school. The level of teacher committment and involvment with the kids is just amazing. My kids are successful students, know how to study, have a sense of community and servitude that I feel they wouldn't get anywhere else. We love St. Pat's.
--Submitted by a parent

We've been very pleased with this school after moving here from out of state two years ago. This is our first experience with private school and it's definitely much better than my son's previous school. The school does not put up with poor behavior from the students which makes for a better classroom experience for all kids. I think the vast majority of kids are nice, well mannered, caring kids. Overall, they work with the kids to advance at different paces with their curriculum which is nice. My son is finally in a place where he can take off in math which is great. I would highly recommend this school to others.
--Submitted by a parent

We newly moved to Ne and my 6th graders were struggling with the size of the local middle school. They visited St.Pats for a day and were immediately welcomed by ALL! We've been amazed at the teacher, parent, and administrative dedication to the students and their education. My boys are flourishing academically and socially. It's a tough curriculum but the teachers are willing to have the students come before school or stay after for extra help. My boys are feeling really challenged and proud of their accomplishments. We give St.Pats a 10 out of 10!
--Submitted by a parent

I've had wonderful experience with the staff and have seen strong discipline leadership with the children. The principle is a wonderful man, but seems a bit political. However, this is a parochial school and would send my child here again in a heart beat.
--Submitted by a parent

We are blessed and proud to have our children attend St. Patrick s School. As a parent, I have endless praise for the level of parental involvement and the highly qualified teachers. The caring and nurturing staff is wonderful! They recognize the special talents and traits of each of our children. The students at St. Patrick s feel they belong and are valued as individuals. As an educator, I take great pride in the rigorous academic programs, teaching of Christian values, the service to the community (locally and globally), and the various extracurricular programs offered. Most importantly, my children are enthusiastic to attend! St. Patrick s is top-notch!!! We could not have chosen a better school!
--Submitted by a parent