Funding:
* Catholic Schools: Primarily funded through tuition fees, donations, fundraising, and sometimes diocesan subsidies. They are not funded by government taxes.
* Public Schools: Funded primarily through local, state, and federal taxes. Tuition is generally not required.
Governance:
* Catholic Schools: Governed by a local diocese (a regional administrative district of the Catholic Church) and often have a board of trustees made up of Church officials, parents, and community members.
* Public Schools: Governed by locally elected school boards, which are accountable to the community and adhere to state and federal regulations.
Curriculum:
* Catholic Schools: Incorporate a Catholic worldview and religious instruction as a core part of the curriculum. This includes religious studies classes, prayer, and often a focus on Catholic values and social teachings. The academic curriculum may also be influenced by this worldview.
* Public Schools: Must remain secular and neutral regarding religion. Religious instruction is generally not permitted, though students may be allowed to practice their faith individually or in school-approved clubs. The curriculum follows state standards and guidelines.
Ethos and Mission:
* Catholic Schools: Aim to provide a holistic education that integrates faith, academics, and character development. They emphasize values like service, charity, and community.
* Public Schools: Aim to provide a free and equitable education for all students, regardless of background or beliefs. Their focus is primarily on academic achievement and preparing students for future opportunities.
Other Differences:
* Student Body: Catholic schools often have a more homogenous student body in terms of religious background, though this is changing in some areas. Public schools tend to have more diverse student populations reflecting the broader community.
* Discipline: Disciplinary policies may differ, with Catholic schools potentially emphasizing religious-based guidance and restorative justice approaches.
* Extracurricular Activities: While both offer extracurricular activities, the emphasis and types of activities may vary based on the school's mission and values.
It's crucial to remember that these are general differences and specific Catholic and public schools can vary greatly depending on their location, resources, and specific policies. Some Catholic schools might be more academically rigorous than some public schools, and vice-versa.