2022 Catholic Schools Scholarship Appeal

The ninth annual Catholic Schools Scholarship Appeal kicks off Nov. 12-13 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, especially this year. | Leer en español.

"Today our Catholic schools face financial challenges which include decreases in parish subsidies, increased need for fundraising, and a greater need for financial assistance for families negatively affected by the economy. This last challenge is where you can help," explained Bishop Anthony B. Taylor in his letter to parishes. Read the letter in English or Spanish.

Last year, donations from this appeal provided tuition support to 86 students ranging from $400 to $3,000 per student. This year, the estimated need is $496,736. 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.

"Catholic schools are an integral part of the teaching mission of the Church because they assist parents in the important obligation of educating and forming their children through faith development. They provide a rigorous education, rooted in the Gospel, and rich in the cherished traditions and liturgical practices of our faith," the bishop wrote.

This letter along with a donation form was provided to all parishes in Arkansas for the weekend of Nov. 12-13. See the donation form in English or Spanish. Donors may also donate online.

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.