Why Private High Schools Are Better at Student-Athlete Support

St. Agnes Academy
If your daughter excels at sports, but is not receiving the support she needs in a public school setting, find out why private high schools are better at student-athlete support.
If your daughter excels in sports, her talent deserves to be nurtured in an environment that matches her ambitions on and off the field. Yet, in many public schools, she may not receive the comprehensive support needed to thrive as both an athlete and a student.

If you're considering new high school options in Houston, private high schools like St. Agnes Academy offer the right blend of academic and athletic excellence to support your child’s development during these crucial teen years.

Today, we will share why private high schools are better at supporting student-athletes. You’ll discover key benefits, such as smaller class sizes, holistic student care, and top-tier athletic programs. Ultimately, you’ll see why your daughter can blossom in a supportive environment.

4 Reasons Why Private High Schools Are Better for Your Child

Let’s dive into the benefits of private school education to help your daughter reach her full potential.

1. Smaller Class Sizes for Individualized Academic Support

Private schools offer lower student-to-teacher ratios, which means your child gets the attention she deserves. At St. Agnes Academy, our current student-teacher ratio is 9:1. Comparatively, the ratio at Houston Independent School District (HISD) is nearly double at 17:1.

Our student-athletes receive tailored academic support to stay on top of their studies, even during busy sports seasons.
  • Personalized Attention: Teachers can adapt to your daughter's needs, helping her manage academic performance alongside her athletic schedule. 
  • Flexible Coursework: Elective options at St. Agnes allow students to explore interests beyond core subjects, ensuring a well-balanced education that supports both academics and extracurricular activities.

2. Dedicated Athletic Development

Private schools typically prioritize sports programs as a vital component of student development. At St. Agnes, our Tiger Athletics Department offers programs that do more than develop physical skills. We are committed to the total development of each student and providing our athletes with the skills they need for their future – well beyond high school.
  • Expert Coaching Across 12 Sports: With experienced coaches for Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer, Volleyball, and more sports, your daughter can train alongside passionate educators committed to her success.  
  • Superior Facilities: Access to high-quality athletic facilities and resources ensures that student-athletes can perform at their best.
With 118 state titles (and counting!), we take pride in helping our students achieve their athletic goals in a supportive environment.

3. Holistic Wellness Support for Students

Balancing the rigors of academics and athletics during the school year can be stressful. That's why private schools like St. Agnes prioritize student well-being with holistic programs that address mental, emotional, and social challenges. 

Our Wellness Center provides essential resources, including stress management workshops, support groups, and individual counseling. These programs ensure students develop resilience and confidence while staying focused on their goals. 

Our key wellness services for student-athletes include the following:
  • Stress and time management support during the season and off-season.
  • Help navigating transitions, such as transferring to St. Agnes.
  • Guidance on academic choices to complement their talents and ambitions.
  • Access to tutoring or learning support specialists who can help students in the classroom.
Overall, our faith-based, Catholic private school approach cares for the entire person, not just who they are as a student or as an athlete.

4. Close-Knit Community of Support

One of the most remarkable aspects of private school education is the sense of community it fosters. At St. Agnes, your daughter will join a network of motivated peers who support each other in navigating life’s challenges.

Through small class sizes, faith-based values, and extracurricular activities, she'll develop connections that extend far beyond sharing a classroom or field. We go to great lengths to develop a sense of sisterhood on our campus that builds character and lifelong friendships.

Is St. Agnes the Right Fit for Your Family?

As an all-girls, private Catholic high school, we believe in cultivating the talents of our students on and off the field. By combining academic rigor, athletic excellence, and overall wellness support, we are confident your daughter will have the tools and resources she needs to succeed.

If you're ready to explore why private high schools are better at supporting your child’s athletic pursuits, we encourage you to contact our staff. Schedule a meeting with our Admissions Department today.

During the meeting, we can discuss additional topics – such as financial aid and your family's specific needs – as you consider enrolling your daughter as a 10th or 11th grader.

Your child deserves a school where she can grow as a person and excel in her chosen pursuits. Together, we can make that happen at St. Agnes.
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