St. Catherine School

My four kids attend this school, and yes, it is strict and rules are to be adhered to. If you don't like that, this is not the school for you. Children are expected to behave and treat others with respect, something we desperately need in today's world. We love this school, Sister Janet, the teachers and the families.
—Submitted by a parent

As an alumni of St. Catherine's, I'm not pleased with them at all. I remember dreading school everyday. I was bullied and the teachers did not help, despite the fact that they knew what ws going on. My peers shared my feelings. It was an exceptional school up until about grade 3, before everything changed. The arts program is very poor, along with the foriegn language program. Sports are pretty good but the academics needs to improve. Classes were too large and teachers weren't equipped with the neccesities to teach. I graduated in 2011.

As a grandparent as well as an educator in the Nashua School District, I am throughly satified with the top-notched education my second grade grandchild is receiving at St. Catherine's. The Principal has her finger on the pulse and has the respect and devotion of her staff as well as her students. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming with a politeness I feel is the direct result of religion being infused into the curriculum... a focus on high ideals!

Our child has been attending St. Catherine's for 4 years now and loves it. We plan on sending our second child as well. Teachers are very dedicated and loving. Parent involvement is welcomed. Yes classroom size is larger at the lower grades (K-2) but that's b/c many parents switch to Hooksett public in grade 3. It was mentioned that the administration is a bit 'strict' or 'old fashioned.' I find this actually to be a good thing. Rules are made to be followed, not bent. Respect and discipline are emphasized. Traditional values are instilled, soemthing very rare. This school is a gem.
—Submitted by a parent

St Catherine could possibly be a strong school with a better leadership team. For the K-2 years, classes are above 27 students. Not a lot of individualized attention. There is no overall discipline program to help set goals for behavior. In my experience, admin was not supportive to students. As an educator, I was dissappointed by the weakness in writing and math. Yes, it is a small community but when class size is large - it is difficult for each child to have individualized attention. Some great teacher but sadly others who need to find different career paths.
—Submitted by a parent

This is such a great school. I have two children both in St. Catherine's and they love going there each day. I would highly recommend this school to any parent who wants their children to have the best education possible while at the same time learning values they will carry forward their entire lives.
—Submitted by a parent

They do not have advanced math or reading programs. They teach Phonics. Minimal after school 'extra curricular' activities. They had a wonderful art teach the first 3 years our child attended. The playgrounds are the paved parking lots! Parent involvement, PVC not PTA there is a big difference!
—Submitted by a parent

We have four children at St Catherines and we are very happy with the school. It is a wonderful community of teachers, children and parents. The dedication of the staff is remarkable. We are always welcome to volunteer and participate in school activities. We are blessed to have such a resource in our city.
—Submitted by Jim O'Connell, a parent

We have four children currently attending St. Catherine's. The teachers we have had so far have been wonderful. Their education has been exceptional and they are above average in all their national test scores. The kids love the school and all the activities it offers. The school welcomes volunteers on a regular basis and I have been lucky enough to spend a lot of time there. We could not be happier with our choice in schools.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has attended St. Catherines for 2 years now and the decision to send her there has been our best. The school challenges the children academically and instill in the children respect, responsibility and core values. The schoold also offers an afterschool program as well as ample extra curricular activities.
—Submitted by a parent

I have 2 children in St Catherines. The teachers are very challenging and expect nothing less than the 100%. Like any school you are going to have problems but I believe St Catherines is above board. Keep up the good work.
—Submitted by keith dillon, a parent

St. Catherine is a good school, with the potential to be great with new leadership. The current administration is quite rigid in its outlook and behind the times pedagogically. Parent involvement is kept to a bare minimum, except when it comes to fundraising expectations. That having been said, there are many excellent teachers, the facilities are good and well-maintained, and the students come from families who value education.
—Submitted by a parent