National School Choice Week 2023 is Jan. 22-28. It is a time to inform, inspire and empower parents to discover the K-12 education options available for their children, while spreading public awareness of the importance and benefits of school choice.  

This year the Diocese of Charleston is celebrating school choice by highlighting the accomplishments of our students and individual schools. We are pleased to share the success of the Arrowsmith Program, a special needs learning curriculum at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic School (OLR), located in Greenville. The program uses cognitive exercises that enable students to master content and skills that are critical to becoming independent learners.  

By implementing neuroscience techniques, the Arrowsmith Program empowers students to thrive in their classwork and studies. One exercise, known as Motor Symbol Sequencing, strengthens the cerebrum, the part of the brain responsible for problem-solving, learning and writing. Students with learning disabilities who complete this program are able to take notes in class without a supervisor present.  

Arrowsmith creates lifelong change for students that goes beyond the classroom. 

“The customized program enabled my child to build strengths in their areas of weakness, keep up with their peers and boost their confidence,” according to Kristin Scott, a former OLR Arrowsmith parent. “This is perhaps the greatest gift we could have received from Catholic education." 

OLR is the only school in the state that offers the full-time Arrowsmith program, with 11 students presently enrolled. The school also offers Enhanced Learning that supports gifted and exceptional students in the classroom and at home.  

“OLR, like all of our Catholic schools, provide Christ-centered and parent-driven education,” stated William Ryan, secretary of education and superintendent of Catholic schools for the diocese. 

Most Rev. Jacques Fabre-Jeune, CS, Bishop of Charleston, concurred. “Education is an essential right,” Bishop Fabre said. “Every student, no matter their race, religion or socioeconomic status has the right to a quality education. This is why the Church supports and seeks to provide education initiatives that prioritize children’s individual needs. Our Catholic schools should reflect the joy of the Gospel by enabling every student and staff member to have a personal encounter with Jesus and become his disciple-missionary.”