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Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. Many families wrestle with the question: Catholic school vs public school — which is better for my child? At Royalmont Academy, we understand that this decision isn’t just about academics. It’s about values, environment, and the kind of person your child is becoming.

What’s the Difference Between Catholic and Public Schools?

While both Catholic and public schools educate children, they operate from very different foundations. Public schools are government-funded and must follow state-mandated curricula, often excluding religious education. In contrast, Catholic schools like Royalmont Academy provide a faith-based education rooted in Gospel values, daily prayer, and moral formation.

Class size is another major difference. Catholic schools tend to be smaller, which allows teachers to build strong relationships and offer more personalized instruction. Public schools often face challenges with larger class sizes and a more standardized approach to instruction.

Academic Outcomes: How Do Catholic Schools Perform?

Research consistently shows that Catholic school students outperform their public school peers in standardized tests, graduation rates, and college readiness. According to the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), Catholic high schools boast a 99% graduation rate, with over 86% of graduates going on to four-year colleges【source: NCEA】.

At Royalmont Academy, students engage in an integrated curriculum that fosters academic excellence, deep thinking, creativity, and leadership. Enrichment and support services help learners at all levels thrive and grow confidently.

Faith-Based Formation: Raising the Whole Child

At Royalmont, students attend Mass, pray regularly, and receive formation in virtue and character. But it doesn’t stop there. As a Regnum Christi Catholic school, Royalmont emphasizes human formation as part of its mission to educate the whole person.

Virtue is not simply taught — it is practiced daily. Students receive coaching on how to live it out in real-world situations. They learn to treat one another with respect, speak and act with kindness, and uphold the dignity of every person. This consistent formation creates a safe and joy-filled environment where faith isn’t just studied — it’s lived.

Catholic School vs Charter School in Ohio

Charter schools in Ohio often market themselves as innovative alternatives to public education. While some offer smaller class sizes or specialized curriculum models, they remain publicly funded and cannot provide religious instruction. A few attempt to promote virtue and character development, but without God as the foundation, these efforts often fall short of deeper meaning.

Many charter schools also try to deliver a classical education experience. However, without the Catholic intellectual tradition — which gave birth to classical learning — they miss the theological and philosophical depth that defines true classical education. At Royalmont Academy, students encounter classical ideals through the lens of faith, guided by truth, goodness, and beauty anchored in Christ.

What About Cost? Is It Worth It?

It’s true that Catholic schools charge tuition. Yet for many families, the long-term value far outweighs the cost. Catholic schools offer high-quality academics, strong moral development, and a nurturing environment where students are known and loved.

Royalmont Academy works hard to make Catholic education accessible. Our tuition model is transparent, and scholarships are available for qualifying families. Rather than viewing tuition as a burden, we invite families to see it as a shared investment in forming their children.

The good news is that Ohio’s EdChoice Expansion Scholarship Program has dramatically changed the cost landscape. Families can now receive up to $6,166 for K–8 and $8,408 for 9–12 in tuition support. Those earning up to 450% of the Federal Poverty Level are eligible for the full amount, and even higher-income families may qualify for partial scholarships.

As a result, attending a Catholic school like Royalmont is now within reach for many more families. In some cases, the EdChoice scholarship covers the full cost of tuition. For others, it significantly reduces the financial burden.

Why More Families Are Choosing Royalmont Academy

Families in Mason, Cincinnati, and across Ohio are choosing Royalmont because they want more for their children. They’re looking for more than just academic results or a safe school. They want personalized attention, leadership development, and a faith-filled environment that forms both the mind and the heart.

Royalmont Academy is a PreK–12 Catholic school rooted in the Regnum Christi tradition. We offer academic rigor, small class sizes, and a focus on personal formation that helps students become strong Christian leaders. Whether your child is beginning their educational journey or preparing for college, Royalmont walks with your family every step of the way.

Still Wondering About Catholic School vs Public School?

We understand the decision between Catholic school vs public school comes with a lot of questions. That’s why Royalmont Academy welcomes you to experience our mission firsthand. From the moment you enter our campus, you’ll see how a Catholic education forms students academically, spiritually, and personally — something public schools simply cannot match.

Ready to Explore the Difference?

Choosing between Catholic and public school doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Come see what makes Royalmont Academy different. Schedule a personal tour and discover how your child can thrive in a community of faith, excellence, and formation.