PREP Registration for 2022-2023

Thank you for your interest in registering in St. Philip Neri Religious Education Program (PREP). At St. Philip Neri PREP, we are committed to the religious education of our children as taught by Jesus Christ. Our goal is to assist you as your child’s first teacher, to nourish the faith already instilled through baptism, family life, the Sunday Mass.

Parents have two options for their children’s religious education: in-person classes or the homeschool model. Students in Levels 1-6 may register for in-person classes on the day of their choice: Monday or Tuesday afternoons, 4:15-5:30 PM. Confirmation PREP is held on scheduled Sundays October-May, 11-12:30. Kindergarten PREP is also held on scheduled Sundays, October-March. ONLY Students in grade/levels 1 and 3-6 may enroll in homeschool.

In the homeschooling model, parents teach the required curriculum to their own children. Parents will sign a homeschooling contract with the DRE, receive textbooks, and also be given guidance for "Family Catechesis" to make it easier for parents to work with varying ages at one time. Traditional Homeschooling is not available for Sacrament preparation; students in sacramental preparation must attend in-person sessions.

A PREP registration form is attached. Please include a copy of your child’s baptismal certificate if your child is a new registration. If your child is entering St. Philip Neri PREP from another religious education program, please provide a copy of the permanent record card. Fees for PREP are $225 for one child and $300 for two or more children. Busing from Ridge Park, Whitemarsh, and Colonial Elementary Schools is provided at $60/family. Forms and payment may be mailed to the address above or dropped at the Church Office. Checks should be payable to Saint Philip Neri Church. Please note: Choice of days and busing may be closed when spaces fill. Spaces cannot be reserved without payment.

Finally, we are always in need of volunteers to teach and assist in other areas. We especially need catechists and aides for all grades/levels. No experience is necessary; instruction and support will be provided. Parents or grandparents who volunteer in the classroom qualify to have PREP fees waived. Team teaching is very welcome and encouraged. If you would like to volunteer in the classroom, or as a recess or snack aide, or would like more information, please contact me as soon as possible so we can be ready in September.

I thank those who have given generously of their time, talent, and resources. Parents are their children’s first teachers and we are honored to assist you in raising your children in our Catholic faith.

Your friend in Christ,
Sharon Otto
Director of Religious Education