Our Guiding Principles of Education
The mission of Padre Pio Academy is based upon the supernatural truth that all persons are made in the image and likeness of God with the vocation to know, love and serve Him in this life in order to spend eternity with Him in heaven. To that end, students must be viewed as unique creatures with intellects, wills and bodies in need of proper spiritual and intellectual formation to enable them to lead holy lives.
First, each student must be taught the Truth of his Catholic Faith. He can then see the rest of the world through the perspective of that Truth. The world is then presented to the student through a curriculum founded upon the classical ideals of Beauty, Reason, Wisdom and Honor. All the academic subjects are thus neatly integrated into a spiritual framework.
This integration of religious and academic development hinges, however, upon the willingness of the student to learn. Discipline, manners and respectful comportment are all vital to a successful program. The pupil must strive to cultivate these virtues within the scholastic context. Rules must be enforced and good examples set. Work assigned must be completed. Classes must always be conducted in an orderly fashion. In short, the student’s cooperation in his own education is essential.
Finally, no discussion of educational philosophy can be complete without mentioning the role of the family. As the Church teaches, parents are the primary educators of their children. The school must therefore view its auxiliary role to help educate children as both an awesome responsibility and a great privilege. The relationship between the school and the family must be one of trust and mutual respect. It requires clear communication and strong parental commitment to the mission of the school.
These ideas form the basis of our educational philosophy at Padre Pio Academy. We rely upon them to ensure that our students develop intellectually and also grow in holiness.
Our Affiliation with the National Association of Private Catholic and Independent Schools
Padre Pio Academy has applied for full membership status in the National Association of Private Catholic and Independent Schools (NAPCIS). This organization exists to reinforce the identity and resolve of member schools to live up to their Catholic mission. Membership standards also dictate that schools meet certain technical requirements, including nonprofit status, non-discrimination policies and sound fiscal practices. NAPCIS also acts as an accreditation body, as well as a strong professional support system for member schools. There are over 30 schools nationwide that are part of the NAPCIS family. More information can be obtained from their web site, www.napcis.org.
