Fostering integral human development: a catholic perspective on whole child education / Favoriser le développement humain intégral : une perspective catholique sur l’éducation globale de l’enfant

Abstract

In the post-pandemic era, holistic education has gained prominence, particularly within the U.S. Catholic educational sector, as evidenced by the Roche Center for Catholic Education's convening at Boston College in June 2022. This gathering led to the development of the first conceptual Framework for Whole Child Education in Catholic Schools, aimed at fostering comprehensive development across physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and spiritual domains. This paper explores this framework through the lens of Christian anthropology, integrating insights from Catholic theology, Ignatian spirituality, and the socio-educational philosophies endorsed by Pope Francis. By detailing the framework's core beliefs—cura personalis, accompaniment, Dios en Todo, Imago Dei, and Magis—and their practical applications within diverse educational settings, the paper illustrates their profound impact on educational practices and student experiences in Catholic schools. Two case studies from the Diocese of Arlington and Archbishop Borders School highlight how these principles are operationalized to support inclusive education and nurture a holistic approach to student development, thereby contributing to a broader understanding of integral human formation in varied cultural and economic contexts.