Tom Fudge : Catholic school is a well-known American institution that has achieved what might be called “mythic status.” Those of us who never attended may have seen movie renditions that show unruly boys being whipped into shape by teacher nuns who are, of course, tough as nails.
Despite the overblown parodies, most people view Catholic schools in a positive light. They're recognized for their educational quality. They also have a reputation for being affordable compared to other private schools. In fact, some big city Catholic schools have taken on the challenge of educating many low-income kids. Part of this is due to the fact that middle class Catholics have joined the larger migration of their economic brethren into the suburbs and away from the parish schools that were developed early in the last century. In some cities, this has made it hard for the schools to attract families who can afford to pay the tuition.
In San Diego, Catholic schools are associated with a local diocese that has taken a huge financial hit ($200 million, in fact) to settle a series of lawsuits by people sexually abused by priests. Diocese officials say the settlement won't affect the schools, but most Catholics figure it can't help, financially at least.
Guests
Steve Laaperi, director of schools for the San Diego Catholic Diocese . He has worked in San Diego Catholic schools for 31 years, having served 20 of those years as principal of Sacred Heart on Coronado .
Kim Blickenstaff, founder of the company Biosite, Inc . He and his wife, Rita, have donated $1.5 million to create a scholarship fund for students at San Diego's Blessed Sacrament Parish School.
