Our Opinion: Helias fund drive deserves wide support

The shield logo for Helias Catholic High School illustrates that the institution is under God’s protection.

The faith-based foundation supports the school’s educational mission, which also extends to material needs — offsetting student tuition, paying teachers’ salaries, purchasing classroom equipment, etc.

Helias last week kicked off its annual fundraising campaign to support school operations and the endowment. The campaign goal is $350,000.

State Sen. Mike Kehoe, a Helias parent and supporter, told the kickoff crowd: “In the many years I’ve been involved with this school, I cannot tell you the last time that I’ve seen such momentum behind Helias High School.”

The evidence is apparent.

The school is in the midst of a capital campaign for the three-story expansion that will enhance arts and sciences, security, administration and religious life.

And the school announced earlier this year that an anonymous benefactor’s generous gift will held offset student tuition for five years, beginning in the fall.

The focus on students also is a focus on the future. The Rev. Stephen Jones, Helias president, remarked: “We like our students to go off and do really well in college and their careers but also be faithful people who turn around and be the next generation of parents and supporters of this school.”

Helias had been a part of our community continuum of education since 1956.

For students and parents, Helias offers an alternative secondary education that combines faith-based instruction with the pursuits of academic and athletic excellence.

And for our community, enrollment at Helias eases the strain that otherwise might be absorbed by public schools and, as a consequence, taxpayers.

Based on its rich tradition, valuable community role and bright future, Helias Catholic High School deserves wide-ranging support.