Office of Catholic Schools

32 Discipleship at the Center of School Culture Culture can be understood as a way of life shared by a group of people. Families and societies have their own culture—root beliefs, practices, and habits—and the same is true for schools. Culture embodies the beliefs and priorities of the school and makes them accessible to teachers, students, and families daily. Culture is a holistic way in which all the members of the community experience and live their shared values. It is the concrete way that faith becomes living and active in the school. The Catholic school should feel different as a place animated by supernatural principles and where people encounter God and others. What are some of the key characteristics of a Cath - olic school culture? It puts God first, honoring him and relating everything the school does to him, in a personal and powerful way. A Christian school cul- ture gives respect and love to everyone within the community and who comes into contact with it, honoring them as made in the image and likeness of God and called to eternal happiness with him. This becomes even more important during con- flict. The school instantiates faith in the layout of the campus, clearly signifying its Catholic identity and mission, as well as the policies and procedures of the school. Everything should relate back to the school's mission and beliefs. It also enables every- one—teachers, students, parents, and guests—to participate in the Christian life. Culture matters greatly for discipleship, because it enables the disciple to live out the faith in an integrated and holistic way. It makes discipleship normative and easier to practice as everyone pur- sues it as a common and shared goal. Rather than

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