Definition

1. Noun:
   • A private religious school run by a church or parish: A "parochial school" is a private educational institution that is operated by a specific church or parish, typically providing a curriculum that integrates general academic subjects with religious instruction and values.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Many parents choose to send their children to a parochial school for a faith-based education.
  • The local Catholic church funds and operates the parochial school in our neighborhood.

Advanced Usage

• "to attend a parochial school": to be a student at such a religiously affiliated private school.
  • She attended a parochial school for all twelve years of her primary and secondary education.
• "parochial school system": refers to the network or collective organization of such schools, often within a specific religious denomination.
  • The diocese oversees the entire parochial school system in the region.

Variants and Related Words

• Parish school (n): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably, emphasizing the school's connection to a local parish.
  • The parish school is known for its strong sense of community.
• Church school (n): A broader term for a school operated by a church, which may be synonymous with or slightly less specific than "parochial school."
  • The Methodist church school enrolls students from various backgrounds.

Synonyms

• Religious school: A general term for any school with a religious affiliation.
• Denominational school: A school associated with a particular religious denomination.

Related Phrases

• Private religious education: The broader concept of education provided by non-public, faith-based institutions.
  • They opted for private religious education at a parochial school.

Noun

1. a private religious school run by a church or parish