All Are Welcome at Fort McMurray Catholic Schools
Faith-Filled Education for all Families
At Fort McMurray Catholic Schools, we warmly welcome students of all faith backgrounds - including those with no religious affiliation. Whether or not your child has attended a faith-based school before, you will find our schools to be inclusive, caring, and rooted in Gospel values.
What to Expect in a Catholic School?
Catholic education is centred on the belief that each child is created in the image and likeness of God and is deserving of love, dignity, and respect. We focus on the academic, emotional, physical, and spiritual formation of every student.
- Prayer is part of our daily routine
- Faith is integrated across all subjects
- Students participate in religious celebrations such as Masses and liturgies during Advent, Lent, Easter, and more
Do I or my Child Have to Be Catholic?
The simple answer is no. In Alberta, publicly funded Catholic schools welcome non-Catholic students where space and programming allow. All students are expected to take part in religious activities and learn about Catholic traditions and teachings - always in an environment of respect and inclusion.
What Makes Catholic Schools Different?
Fort McMurray Catholic Schools offer the same curriculum as all publicly funded Alberta schools, but with a faith-based lens.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Daily prayer and religious instruction
- Liturgical celebrations and sacraments
- Strong community ties with local parishes
- A values-based approach to behaviour, relationships, and academics
- Faith permeation across all subjects, connecting learning with a sense of meaning and purpose
Will My Child Learn About Other Religions?
Yes. Alberta’s Program of Studies includes:
- World religions in high school religion courses
- Indigenous spirituality throughout various subject areas
This ensures all students develop respect and understanding for diverse traditions and beliefs.
Charity and Social Justice in Catholic Schools
Our Catholic faith calls us to love and serve others. Students regularly participate in both local and global service projects, often in partnership with:
- Santas Anonymous- a social justice project led by the students of Father Mercredi High School
- Our local Food Bank and other community organizations
These initiatives help students live out the Gospel values of justice, compassion, and community.
Parish Connections
Fort McMurray Catholic Schools are closely connected to our local Catholic parishes.
Priests regularly:
- Celebrate school Masses and liturgies
- Visit classrooms
- Provide opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation
We believe Catholic education is strongest when home, school, and parish work together.