Often called parochial (Catholic faith based schools), these private schools offer Religion plus the other 3R's. They all made provisions for their students displaced by the storm and worked quickly to restore services. Most were back on line by January 2006 even if in a temporary location. Enrollments are above their pre-K levels as some displaced public and other private school students have found their way into the Catholic Schools.

Cathedral school in Quarter was first to reopen, and hosted Charles and Camilla when they visited after the storm. (November 4, 2005).

Discipline is strict but no longer entails corporeal punishment. Student handbooks outline the rules and teachers, parents and administration all work together to create a positive learning environment. Students wear uniforms and adhere to dress and appearance standards. School days are one hour longer than comparable public school days to allow for religion classes. Schools charge tuition. Some financial aid is available. Students must pay for books outside the ones provided by state programs.

Elementary schools provide education for pre-K through 8'th grade. High schools provide 8'th through 12th grades. Eighth grade is a transitional year. About 1/3rd of eighth graders start high school in accelerated academic programs. Most of the area high schools are for either boys or girls only, but a few are co-ed. The elementary schools are generally co-ed except those associated with High School (like Ursuline).