“I see the sacrifices they make.”

Thiago Duarte Fonseca has been part of St. Isidore Catholic School since preschool.

Now entering sixth grade, he can already put into words what the experience has taught him: to follow the example of Jesus and Mary, to think about his choices, and treat others with respect.

His parents, Erika Fonseca Moreno and Diego Duarte Caro, hoped for exactly that when they enrolled him.

The family moved to the United States from Colombia nearly eight years ago. Because faith was incorporated into education in their home country, Erika and Diego wanted their children to learn about God throughout the week, not only on Sunday.

For Thiago, St. Isidore has become a place to learn, serve, and belong. As he has gotten older, he also recognizes what his parents do to make his education possible.

“I am very thankful,” Thiago said. “I see the sacrifices they make. They always sacrifice time and money for me to come here.”

The Catholic Education Foundation is helping ease that sacrifice with financial assistance for the coming school year.

When Thiago learned that he had received support, he shared his own message of thanks.

“Thank you for helping me achieve my dream of moving forward with my family and carrying high the name of God in our community,” he wrote.