Education doesn't mold us; it unfolds us. Schools don't build character; they reveal it and nurture it.

For 96 years, Lancaster Catholic High School (LCHS) has been influencing the development of Lancaster County adolescents. It's the type of influence that can stick with an individual for a lifetime, one that has given rise to the notion "once a Crusader, always a Crusader."

"We're focused on the holistic development, which is mind, body, spirit," said Lancaster Catholic's director of enrollment, Angela Baumler. "We get to know a student's strengths, and we can prepare them for what's next in life. We're getting them ready for the next challenge. I think it's a more personal experience. This is a community where people are connected to the school. That kind of connection to your alma mater is very unique."

Currently, about 500 students in grades nine through 12 are enrolled at LCHS, 650 Juliette Ave., Lancaster. LCHS is associated with six partner elementary schools, whose total enrollments number about 1,200 students.

LCHS employs about 110 individuals, including teachers, administrative personnel and support staff members.

"We're really blessed to have a very dedicated staff," said Baumler. "We don't have a high turnover rate. They're people who, like the families who have joined us, want to be part of this experience. We pray at the beginning of the day, in the middle of the day and at the end of the day. We have a number of alumni on staff. They feel they can give back by being part of the next generation of Crusaders."

An estimated 65% of Lancaster Catholic's student body is involved in the school's fine and performing arts programs, and 65% of its students compete on the school's interscholastic athletic teams. About 95% of LCHS graduates go on to college.

"Lancaster Catholic High School serves students in Lancaster County who are looking for a college prep education in a unique academic environment," said Baumler. "It was founded for Catholic students, and while our mission hasn't changed, we've opened our doors to students of all faiths and backgrounds. Our students are held to extremely high academic standards. Our passing grade is a 70%."

The tuition at Lancaster Catholic is discounted for Catholic students, with a higher fee for non-Catholic students. Through the Diocese of Harrisburg, Lancaster Catholic is supported financially by 18 Catholic parishes in Lancaster County. Because of that support, many students and families pay between 30 and 80% of the tuition price.

"A majority of our families receive some sort of variable tuition from us," said Baumler. "Our goal at Lancaster Catholic is that if this is the right place for the student, we will work with that family to make sure the option is available."

Lancaster Catholic High School was founded in 1928.

"Back then, the expectation was if you were Catholic, you went and got a Catholic education," said Baumler. "It was free; the families paid nothing. You tithed to the parish and the parishes supported the school. We have been part of the Lancaster County community for nearly 100 years."