While Reitz Memorial High School is a Catholic school, those of other religious backgrounds are welcome to attend.  All students are exposed to the basic tenets of the Catholic faith through theology classes, but no attempt is made to convert non-Catholic students to Catholicism. The contributions and questions of students from various belief systems and their exposure to Catholicism and its traditions benefit everyone involved.  Other faith-centered activities in which students participate include student prayer and penance services, retreat days, and liturgical services.

The atmosphere at Memorial is one which fosters pride and self-worth in each individual.  The ability to exert self-discipline is expected.  Students are treated with respect and dignity.  A student/teacher ratio of approximately 15 to 1 allows for individual attention to students and a close relationship between the adults and students of Memorial.

Christianity is not merely an intellectual activity - it is a way of life.  One of the most important aspects of being a Christian is contributing positively to the lives of others. With this in mind, Memorial has developed a four-year service program that challenges our students to reach beyond themselves and to touch the lives of others.  Because of the importance of service in the teachings of Christ and because of its educational value for our students, we require that they render service to others both for promotion to the next grade level and for graduation. This service is directed toward the Church, the community, and the school.  Freshmen and sophomores are required to contribute at least 10 hours of service, while juniors and seniors are required to give at least 15 hours of service.  Part of these service hours must be done at the student’s home parish or regular place of worship, which not only strengthens their bond with their faith community, but also helps them to recognize that their education and their faith are integrally connected.

Could it be our Philosophy of Education?

Reitz Memorial High School is a Catholic school which carries out the educational mission of the Diocese of Evansville at the secondary level.  The Evansville Catholic Interparochial High School Board serves as the governing body of the school.

Reitz Memorial High School exists to provide quality secondary education in the academic areas while promoting the development of both social skills and personal talents.  In addition, Memorial assists parents in their role as the primary teachers of religious values.  These high standards of education are achieved by enabling the young people we serve to develop a Christian view of reality through the presentation of the values and morality of the Gospel and the exercise of the Christian life. Utilizing the unique gifts and talents of its faculty and staff, Memorial strives to educate students to their highest human potential.

Could it be the financial assistance that is available?

Through the Catholic Education Foundation, grants are made available each year to families who need financial assistance with tuition costs. Application forms are available after December 1 for the following school year.  The deadline for submitting an application is March 1. Loans are available from the Evansville Teachers Federal Credit Union.  If you are interested, please contact Jeff Marx, the Business Manager for the Evansville Catholic Interparochial High Schools.

Could it be the dress code?

The uniform dress code of Reitz Memorial High School is based on our belief that students should present an image that reflects a sense of pride in themselves, their families, and their school.  In a society which places much emphases on fashion, where consumerism attempts to define social position and self-worth by the price, label, or logo which appears on clothing, our dress code stands as a reminder that clothing can be simple and uniform, and the real worth of the individual is in what he or she accomplishes with the gifts God has given. Our students will enter careers and professions where what they wear or their general appearance will not be their choice.  We feel that we have an obligation to help them understand and accept those expectations as part of being an adult.

Could it be our strong academic program?

Reitz Memorial High school is accredited by the Indiana Department of Education and by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.  In 2002 Memorial was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the United States Department of Education.

96% percent of the 210 graduates in 2003 are now in a post-secondary school.

Our strong academic program includes the following:

• Accelerated courses in English, math, science, and social studies.
• Bridge Program through the University of Evansville
• AP classes in science, foreign language, and English
• Computer literacy for use in all areas of the curriculum
• Three four-year foreign language programs: French, German, and Spanish
• Range of business-oriented courses
• Opportunities in study skills
• Academic and career counseling at all grade levels
• Trade and industry courses offered through a shared-time program with the public school system

Could it be the wholesome choices of activities provided to our students?

While growing academically, students also need the opportunity to develop physically, socially, and morally.  Students become more well-rounded individuals as they interact with others. Some opportunities for involvement include the following:

• Complete athletic program for boys and girls
• Complete extra-and co-curricular programs for boys and girls
• Active student government
• Instrumental and choral classes and programs
• European tours
• Art shows: school and community exhibits and competitions
• Academic competition
• Speech and debate
• Drama productions
• Curriculum-related clubs and activities
• Cheerleading, dance team, and flag corps groups
• Service opportunities through service clubs

We think it is all of the above!  Being a Catholic, Christian school, we believe we are in the unique position of being able to offer students a quality education in an atmosphere of firm discipline seasoned with much caring and individual attention and respect. Call us today to make high school at Memorial a part of your child’s future!