parochial school

American  

noun

1. a primary or secondary private school supervised by a religious organization, especially a Roman Catholic day school affiliated with a parish or a holy order.

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Etymology

Origin of parochial school

First recorded in 1745–55

Example Sentences

Negro has twice been named national coach of the year by Max Preps, leading the Bellflower parochial school to a record of 177-30 in 16 seasons, winning four CIF State championships and two national titles.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 22, 2026

I was born into the Catholic faith, but was not enrolled in parochial school.

From Salon • Dec. 29, 2022

With the exception of prekindergartners, nearly every D.C. student enrolled at a public, charter, private or parochial school is eligible for free cards.

From Washington Post • Dec. 3, 2022

The eldest child in a large Irish Catholic family, Aylward grew up on Capitol Hill and discovered acting early, in parochial school.

From Seattle Times • May 19, 2022

The umpire, a gym instructor from a parochial school two blocks away, called the teams together to determine who would bat first.

From "The Chosen" by Chaim Potok