2024 Catholic Schools Scholarship Appeal

The 11th annual Catholic Schools Scholarship Appeal kicks off Nov. 16-17 to assist schools statewide in raising funds for need-based tuition assistance. Tuition rates in Catholic elementary and secondary schools in Arkansas are significantly less than the actual cost of educating students in our Catholic schools.

Yet the cost of tuition is a challenge to hundreds of our families who desire a Catholic education for their children. Parish subsidies, school fundraising and foundations provide funds for financial assistance, but not enough. | Leer en español.

"You may be familiar with the LEARNS Act, which provides funding for tuition and some fees through an Education Freedom Account for students who meet the criteria," explained Theresa Hall, superintendent of Catholic schools, in a letter to previous donors about the appeal. "Although the categories have expanded this year, many students who need financial assistance still do not qualify. The cost of paying full tuition remains an obstacle for many families." | Read the letter.

All parishes in the Diocese of Little Rock are provided a flyer to include in their bulletin, statement to be read at Masses, bulletin announcement and donation forms to kick off the appeal. See the donation form in English or Spanish. Donors may also donate online.

In 2023, donations from this appeal provided tuition support to 34 students ranging from $500 to $4,500 per student. All funds raised through this appeal go directly to an Arkansas Catholic school to provide tuition assistance to a family with a demonstrated financial need.

FACTS Management Company, a third-party provider, reviews the applications and determines if a family qualifies for tuition assistance.

This appeal was created in 2013 to close the gap in providing assistance to families who qualified for financial assistance. Donations help families who could not otherwise afford to offer a Catholic education to their children. This effort is sponsored by the Office of Catholic Schools. For more information, contact Marguerite Olberts, associate superintendent, at (501) 664-0340, ext. 394.

Donors may mail a check to: Catholic Schools of Arkansas Scholarship Appeal, Diocese of Little Rock, P.O. Box 7565, Little Rock, AR 72217-7565, or donate online via credit card. Thank you so much for your gift, and remember our Catholic schools in your prayers.

"Our students are our future leaders, and your support can make a significant impact on their lives and the future of our world," added Hall in her letter to previous donors. "I humbly ask you to donate today to the Arkansas Catholic Schools Scholarship Appeal. Your generosity will help ensure that more students have access to an education based on the beliefs and values of the Catholic Church."