For the first time in 50 years, Idaho has a new Catholic School and it's located in Meridian.  Having grown up in the Treasure Valley Catholic School system myself, preschool through senior year of high school--this is really exciting news.

The school, named St. Ignatius Catholic School, is located next to Holy Apostles Catholic Church on the corner of Meridian Rd and Chinden Boulevard. With classes set to start on August 22nd, attendance at the new school is looking to be in great shape, with just over 400 students ready to walk the new halls of St. Ignatius.

With ribbons being cut for grand opening just last Sunday, the naming of the school seems perfect to go along with downtown Boise's San Inazio Festival going on all weekend. More on that, and the story behind St. Ignatius, or, San Inzaio--HERE.

Growing up and even through today, my faith is important to me. However, the sense of community and the intense curriculum offered by our areas Catholic schools are what have me continually thankful for financial aid opportunities that made my attendance, possible. Without help from St. Paul's Catholic School in Nampa, and Boise's own Bishop Kelly High School, my parents never would have been able to send me to schools that set me up for success at Gonzaga University, making me a first generation college graduate.

I was shocked at some of the assumptions online within the comments on social media news breaks of the new school opening.  First of all, no-- you don't need to be Catholic to attend any of the schools.  Growing up, a lot of my friends weren't and nobody ever felt left out.  In fact, the communities that are formed within the schools are inclusive beyond any I have ever been a part of. Next, yes--there are science classes and being a Catholic school changes nothing about what you learn, scientifically.

I'm grateful for my Treasure Valley Catholic School education because it made me into who I am--it developed me as a complete student--spirit, body, and mind.

See more about St. Ignatius Catholic School including Financial Aid information, HERE.

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