building and strengthening environment at a crucial time in their lives than about their bachelors education. Looking at the eternal perspective the spiritual development and growth are my primary concerns as a parent. Is this saying that only if my kids go to BYU will they be strong in the Church - and that if they go elsewhere they won't? Of Course not. It's not a binary answer. But I do know the percentages chance are much higher for my kids to be active and strong in the church than if they go to a non-church school.

I have worked with and observed hundreds of church youth in my ward and stake over 3+ decades. My anecdotal experience has shown me that the kids who choose to go to a church school tend to stay active and strong in the church. Whereas those who choose to go to a non-church school have a lower rate of being active in the church as adults. That's just my observation.

Going to a church school is not a definitive thing that will ensure strong testimonies, but the percentages are higher if they do. So for me - part of it is just playing the averages.

As a result - I helped encourage and incentivize my kids to go to church schools. So far it was worked out extremely well for us. They all went to BYU, married in the temple and have remained active. I will also give credit to two of my son-in-laws both of which did not go to a church school (although in some respects Weber St has some elements of a church school) and are excellent, excellent young men and great examples.

As a grandparent - I will look for ways to encourage my grandchildren to go to a church school as I feel that strongly about it.