Marie Bathelmy is a proud parent of CSF Scholar Gabriel Laratte, a kindergartner at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Academy. On March 13th, 2015, Marie spoke at an Education Investment Tax Credit rally in Brooklyn. Read the full speech here.
Q& A with CSF Mom Marie Bathelmy
Why did you choose to send your child to St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Academy?
“Growing up, I always wanted to go to a Catholic school, but my family couldn’t afford it. I knew that if I had the opportunity to send my children to a private school, I would. St. Frances is about educating the whole child—it’s not just about the academics and testing. It focuses on the importance of social development and instilling values as well.”
Are you happy with your choice?
“Yes, I’m very happy. My son is learning and all the students look forward to going to school. Gabriel is super excited to go to school and enjoys it.”
What do you like most about the school?
“St. Frances has a great learning environment. School teachers and administrators are always looking into further developing a connection with the community and parents. I am very involved and I believe all parents should take advantage of it. The teachers come in early or stay later to talk to the parents. They are flexible and very accessible.”
Do you think Gabriel has benefited from the scholarship?
“Gabriel does really well in reading and is building confidence in math. He is very well spoken for his age and I’m always so proud when parents come up to me and ask me what school he is attending because they are impressed by him.”
What are your hopes for your child’s education and future?
“We have already started having some conversations about middle school, high school, and college. He is definitely exposed to higher education because the ‘big kids’ in the eighth grade volunteer with the younger kids at his school. I want him to set high goals.”