<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<school-type>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Unlike public schools, Catholic schools both teach "traditional subjects" (math, English, science, history) and religion and spirituality.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;The Catholic School Office of the Boston Archdiocese has a 4-page brochure, called "Choosing the Right School," to help parents understand their Catholic School options.  You can download it &lt;a href="http:// www.abcso.org/links.htm" target="_blank"&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Catholic Schools are not part of BPS nor are they free.  The Archdiocese says: "Keep in mind that tuition costs do vary from school to school.  While financial assistance is often available, it is important to consider how much your family&#8217;s budget will be dedicated to education. Remember to consider other costs such as supplies, school uniforms, books, and fund-raising requirements issues."&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;While the costs are not published on the web, several Catholic elementary schools are in the range of $3,000 per year.  However, the high schools are more expensive, usually over $8,000 per year.  Financial aid is sometimes available.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Over the past several years, fewer students have attended Catholic Schools.  As a result, some of Boston's Catholic schools will close within the coming years. Families interested in a particular Catholic school should be sure to ask questions about the long-term plans.  &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;For more information, visit the Archdiocese website at &lt;a href="http://www.abcso.org/" target="_blank"&gt;www.abcso.org&lt;/a&gt;.  &lt;/p&gt;</description>
  <id type="integer">4</id>
  <name>Low Cost Catholic Schools</name>
</school-type>
