I spent 16 years in Catholic schools. My son was in Catholic schools for 9 years. I will acknowledge that his departure wasn't voluntary, so that all cards are on the table. But I have come to the conclusion that, all too often, "Catholic" schools are just expensive private schools with a Crucifix out front. They are not what they once were and that's too bad.
When the assistant principal told my son that they "expected better from a student who was receiving financial aid", that was my "screw you" moment.
I stuck out four years of Catholic school, and agree with you wholeheartedly. My school didn't even pretend to care about the concerns of students or parents, unless they contributed a healthy sum to the church. I think a lot of people on Free Republic idealize Catholic schools, but they're not automatically superior.