Catholic education in Western Washington includes 74 schools, more than 21,000 students and 2,000 educators. “It might surprise people to know we’re the 10th largest school system in the state,” said Nicholas Ford, superintendent, Catholic schools, Archdiocese of Seattle. “We’re one of only five Catholic school systems across the whole country who have experienced net growth over the last six years.” The Fulcrum Foundation has partnered with the Archdiocese of Seattle to fuel this growth with tuition assistance, which helps make Catholic school affordable and accessible for all families. The foundation also funds school partnership grants to provide safe and innovative learning environments and invests in leaders and teachers. “The impact of our Catholic schools is that we’re creating faith-filled, values-based learning environments that instill critical thinking skills for our students,” Ford said. Alana Bell, program director for the Fulcrum Foundation’s Becraft Scholars Program, says her work has deepened her perspective on the power of a Catholic education. “So many people in my life have come through Catholic education and they have lifelong relationships that really have shaped who they are,” she said. “What better gift could you give your kid?” The Becraft Scholars Program provides a pathway of access to Catholic education while partnering with archdiocesan schools to foster a culture of belonging with a focus on Black families. “Belonging is not a privilege,” Bell said. “It’s a fundamental human need. In education, we have every right to center belonging in everything that we do as educators.” The Catholic schools in the diocese welcome families of all faith traditions, cultures and backgrounds. “I think people might be surprised to know just how diverse we are,” Ford said. “Culturally we really do reflect the demographics of Western Washington. We serve families from all socioeconomic backgrounds.” To learn more about Catholic education and how you can support students, visit the Fulcrum Foundation website. Sponsored by the Fulcrum Foundation Segment Producer Rebecca Perry. Watch New Day Northwest 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.