The Mark and Alma Kline family from Nicktown has been committed to Catholic education at Northern Cambria Catholic and Bishop Carroll Catholic for many years. The Klines have sent all of their children to both schools; Luke (BCCHS 2007), Sharon (2008), Elizabeth (2009), Maria (2011), Abigail (2014), Jacob (2015), Anna (2017), and Jude (2024). Mark and Alma believe that nothing is more important than a Catholic education. Alma said, “My parents sent all of us to Catholic school. My mom always said it was our responsibility to send our kids to a Catholic school if it was possible. I am glad BC has been there for me and is still available for my children. Today, more than ever, kids need their religion at home and in their schools. Prayer is a natural part of their day, something not too many kids share with each other anymore. My kids have all had a good education, have good friends, and now have jobs that they enjoy. I know that Bishop Carroll truly helped to shape each of my children into who they are today.”
The Kline children all feel that their time here at Bishop Carroll was well spent. “I know that we received the best education possible and that the morals we learned at NCCS and BC have instilled values in all of us that we may not have had anywhere else,” said Maria. “My husband and I both agree that giving our children the opportunity of a Catholic education in the future will be one of the greatest things we can give them.” Each of her siblings echoed what Maria said about the importance of the faith in education. Luke commented that, “Keeping God and religion in the ideals of the youth is a highly crucial part of their development, not only for themselves, but for their roles later in society.” Sharon said, “A Catholic education teaches you to keep God in everything you do.” Elizabeth added that her experiences at BC have led her to where she is today. “BC made me realize I wanted to pass on the faith and values I was taught, which is what I am currently teaching at a Catholic grade school.”
Bishop Carroll has assisted each in their chosen career paths. Abigail said, “BC has taught me the importance of family and how that plays a larger role in everyone’s lives. Bishop Carroll allows everyone to be part of a larger family, beyond those you are related to, which I have found true in my career as a caseworker.” Anna credits her chosen path of pursuing a middle school math teacher certification from SFU to her time at BC. “Ms. Wetzel took her time to explain it and put excitement into math for me.” Sharon said, “The teachers pushed students to go above and beyond what was generally expected; this has helped me to become successful in my professional career.”
The Kline family could not recommend Bishop Carroll more, and each of them wish that they had their time back at BCCHS. “Enjoy it, and never take moment for granted,” commented Maria. “It goes too fast and then you have to enter the real world. Luke believes that students need to “Take risks and challenge yourself every day to learn who you will be.” Abigail added, “Think about how important this step of your life is, because it will set the stage for where life will take you.”
Bishop Carroll is very fortunate to have families, like the Klines, that recognized the value in a faith-filled education. We thank Mark and Alma for putting their faith in the future by sending their children to BC!
Families are welcome to send their updates to Mr. Nagy at [email protected]!