How to Have a Great School Year

(Photo by Ken Mostek/Mostek Photography)

By Kim Mack, LPC

St. Raphael Counseling

The start of the school year offers Catholic families more than just a chance to aim for academic success — it’s an opportunity to grow in faith, character and community. A truly great school year nurtures the whole child — mind, body and soul. When the school experience is rooted in faith, children can flourish spiritually and emotionally while thriving academically and socially.

As students head back to school this week and next, here are six ways to help make this school year one of joy, purpose and growth:

1. Begin with Prayer

The best way to start both the school year and each school day is with prayer. Pray together as a family each morning, asking for God’s guidance, wisdom and peace. Encourage your child to pray before tests, during challenges and in moments of celebration. Prayer centers the day on what matters most and reminds children they are never alone.

Tip for Parents: Keep it simple. Say, “Jesus, walk with us today” or pray a decade of the Rosary before school. Let your child lead sometimes to foster ownership and connection.

2. Prioritize Virtues over Achievement

In a culture focused on competition and performance, Catholic parents are called to raise children with strong moral character. Show them that who they are matters more than what they achieve. Integrity, kindness and humility should be celebrated alongside school success.

Tip for Parents: At dinner or bedtime, reflect on virtues your child practiced — patience, honesty and generosity — and celebrate them as joyfully as you would grades or awards.

3. Stay Actively Involved — Body and Spirit

Your presence communicates love and support. Attend school events, talk with teachers and stay engaged in your child’s learning. Support their spiritual growth by attending Mass and getting involved in parish life together.

Tip for Parents: Put faith events on the family calendar just like school activities. Make Sunday Mass a priority and explore volunteer opportunities as a family.

4. Model a Growth Mindset Rooted in Faith

Children learn more from what you do than what you say. When setbacks come — a poor grade, a friendship challenge or a tough subject — demonstrate a faith-filled growth mindset. Remind them that God can use struggles to help us grow.

Tip for Parents: Encourage your child with Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Show how mistakes can be part of God’s plan for building virtue.

5. Balance is Holy

Overscheduling drains energy, focus and faith life. Protect time for rest, family meals, unstructured play and spiritual renewal.

Tip for Parents: Review extracurricular activities and ask, “Does this bring us closer to God or pull us away?” Sometimes saying no opens space for something more important.

6. Create a Culture of Service

Catholic education forms disciples who serve. Find consistent, simple ways to involve your child in acts of kindness — helping a neighbor, donating toys or sending cards to the elderly.

Tip for Parents: Pick a monthly family service project. Even small actions — collecting food for a pantry or baking for a neighbor — teach that faith is lived through service.

A great school year isn’t about perfection — it’s about purpose. When faith anchors your child’s day, academics, friendships and challenges are all shaped by God’s love. Your witness, presence and prayer can guide them toward not just a successful year but a holy and joyful one.

Let this year be filled with grace, growth and God’s presence in all things.