What they're saying about ACS

Asheville Catholic School is more than just a place to drop off your child every day. It's a vibrant community which, through the volunteer commitment of the parents and the extra effort by the faculty, offers so much to enhance our children's classwork - field trips, the sports programs, Math Night, Chess Club, drama, the Declamation competition, community outreach, Sunshine Math, and my personal favorite, the Big Friend/Little Friend program, which pairs up older students with younger ones, to the benefit of both.

What makes me feel good about ACS, is hearing how well our students do in high school, college and out in the "real world". Everyone here should be proud of the caliber of students we graduate.

Although Catholic, I didn't have Catholic education high on my priority list when selecting a kindergarten for my oldest child. Then I attended an open house at Asheville Catholic School during catholic schools week. I was bowled over by what I saw and experienced that day - colorful, interesting classrooms, engaging faculty and staff (all of whom knew every child by name), bright, articulate children of all ages ready to tell me why their school was so wonderful, involved parents ready to help where needed, all composing a faith community in which everyone participated. I sensed this was a special place and enrolled my son in the next kindergarten class. I have never regretted this decision. That kindergartner is now about to graduate from the 8th grade atAsheville Catholic. The substantive knowledge that he has gained, the self-confidence, grace under pressure and the maturity he has developed is a direct result of his education at Asheville Catholic School.

One of my greatest concerns transferring our family to Asheville was how our four children would adjust. I was thankful to get them all into ACS and could not have asked for a better environment and easier transition. Not only were our children openly welcomed into the community so were my husband and I. ACS truly is a family, one who lovingly opens its arms and pulls you right in. My oldest daughter recently answered an e-mail survey that asked if you like where you live, she answered 'I love it!' I know being a part of ACS led her to this conclusion.

I love so many things about Asheville Catholic School. I love that my shy beautiful daughter found the confidence to play volleyball and try out for the school play. I love that my quirky sons can play chess and soccer and that their creative talents are celebrated. I love that my children are not lost in the crowd, that they are not just another kid in the hall. I love the after school program, the focus on community service, and the uniforms that make the morning rush a little less hectic! Most of all, I love the pride in my children's voices when they answer the question, "Where do you go to school?" Asheville Catholic!!

Ten years ago, I came to Asheville as a single parent of three boys ages 3, 5 and 7. Committed to Catholic education, I enrolled them at Asheville Catholic. The entire school family not only embraced and supported my boys, but passed that same level of love and support to me. Words can not express how grateful I am for the experience.

My oldest son wrote a paper one day that he met his new best friend within twenty minutes of entering Asheville Catholic. All three boys have formed life long friendships. One of the boys once said that the Dr. Berreen (then the principal) was 'the best non nun nun ever!'

Now the youngest two boys are about to graduate. I have remarried and my two stepsons also received their education at Asheville Catholic. My wife and I have a daughter who will enter Pre-K at Asheville Catholic next year. I truly look forward to another ten years and will be forever indebted to the school.

All three of my children have attended ACS from Pre-K to 8th grade and continue to thrive at academics thanks to the firm foundation received at this marvelous school: our students are truly blessed! Unfortunately we do not have a Catholic high school in the area, but believe I can summarize my children's experience at ACS by a recent statement from my youngest child, Emily, now an 8th grader when asked about high schools...' I want to go to high school at ACS.' WOW!

Moving to Asheville nine years ago was a pivotal time for our family. I dropped my two kids off on April 1 for their first day of school at Asheville Catholic School. Driving away I cried, thinking what am I doing, having them come into a new school at this point of the year? I was a wreck all day and couldn't wait to pick them up. Seeing their bright, happy smiles as they climbed into the car melted my heart, and before I could ask, they said, "I had a great day." All would be fine.

The smiles have continued for the Head family regarding ACS. The teachers and families embraced us as their own on that first day, and that spirit has continued through nine years and four more children. Asheville Catholic is providing my family with a solid academic foundation, spiritual reinforcement, a strong sense of community, and a place where we can celebrate and live our Christian faith. The teachers, administration, fellow parents, and children of our school love one another in the spirit of Christ and in a spirit of family. I am grateful for the gift of ACS.

My two oldest have graduated with confidence from the seeds planted on that first day will remain with them throughout their lives, and the smiles and confidence our family holds for ACS are lifelong as well.

I never thought when I went into the teaching profession that I would be lucky enough to teach at a school like Asheville Catholic. I can't imagine being anywhere else!

When I toured ACS I knew I liked the concept of pre-K through 8th grade for so many reasons and yet I had no idea of how magnificent this would be for my second-&-third-grade children. They are in awe of their upper classmates and then love being the big, guiding forces to the younger ones. It's the very best of mentoring. They more easily receive and give loving guidance. They conduct themselves with pride knowing that they are a good example for those coming up behind them. Their feelings of belonging and purpose have skyrocketed!