TELLING OUR STORY Progress Report for Catholic Schools
2025/26 1
ARCHDIOCESE OF CHICAGO CATHOLIC SCHOOLS VISION We envision vibrant and flourishing Catholic schools filled with learning and God’s love, where every child: • feels known, loved and safe, • succeeds academically, and • grows as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
The Academy of St. Joan of Arc, Evanston Ascension School, Oak Park Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy, Chicago St. Anne School, Barrington This year, 11 schools in the Archdiocese of Chicago were honored with the Governor’s Blue Ribbon award, a statewide award replacing the former National Blue Ribbon award. This achievement was historic! They represent the most schools from one district in a single year in the history of the federal program. The Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Chicago represent the best of what is possible for students, families and staff. Congratulations on making history!
St. Giles School, Oak Park St. John of the Cross School, Western Springs St. Matthias School, Chicago St. Norbert School, Northbrook St. Therese Chinese Catholic School, Chicago Regina Dominican High School, Wilmette Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart, Lake Forest
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, I am deeply grateful for the countless individuals who make our Catholic schools places of faith, learning and hope. Every day, our principals, teachers, staff, pastors, families and benefactors work together to ensure that our students feel safe, known and loved and are challenged and supported as they grow in wisdom and faith. This report celebrates the meaningful work taking place across our Catholic schools. While each school has its own unique story, these pages reflect a collective commitment to ensuring each one of our 40,000+ students have the opportunity to thrive. The successes highlighted throughout this report are made possible by the dedication, collaboration and generosity of so many people who believe in the mission of Catholic education. Together, we are creating vibrant school communities where students are prepared to lead lives of faith, service and purpose. Thank you for your continued support of this important ministry. As you read the stories and updates that follow, I hope you take pride in all that our Catholic school community has accomplished and feel inspired by the promise of what lies ahead. Sincerely yours in Christ,
Archbishop of Chicago
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ACADEMICS
ST. ANN SCHOOL How does a Catholic school support all children academically, including those with diverse learning needs? For Alyssa, an eighth grader at St. Ann School, when she reflects on her time there, she sums up what she has learned in a simple phrase: “Serve. Lead. Love.” Those values shaped her growth both inside and outside the classroom, where personalized support helped her build confidence and prepare for high school. At St. Ann School in Pilsen, personalized learning is a key part of the school’s academic approach. Teachers use i-Ready diagnostics, reading assessments, and ongoing progress monitoring to tailor instruction to each student’s needs. Every student works toward the same learning goals, but instruction is adjusted to help each learner make meaningful progress. As middle school teacher Helen Muñoz explains, “Everybody is working on the same exact skill, but at a level that works for them.” 2
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That individualized approach is supported by close collaboration between classroom teachers, interventionists, and specialists. Students receive the support they need while remaining active participants in their classrooms, helping them strengthen academic skills, develop independence, and become confident self-advocates. Alyssa is one example of that growth. After receiving years of individualized academic support, she entered eighth grade performing on grade level and no longer required that academic intervention. Her teachers say her journey reflects what personalized instruction can accomplish when students, educators, and families work together. Students also notice the difference. As classmates learn alongside one another, receiving extra support has become a normal part of school life rather than something to hide. The result is a culture where students celebrate one another’s successes, learn from each other’s strengths, and grow together academically. Former principal Kathleen Fox says the school’s inclusive approach has helped students recognize “that different people need different things,” a lesson that builds empathy alongside academic growth. “That’s going to help them when they go to high school, college, and the real world because everybody is not the same, and that’s wonderful.” At St. Ann, student success is measured not only by achievement, but by growth, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Comparison to national and statewide measures Our Catholic school students outperform their peers in i-Ready Math and Reading scores, both nationally and in Illinois.
MATH
17% higher than national peers
READING
17%
21%
18%
higher than Illinois peers
higher than national peers
higher than Illinois peers
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FAITH
ST. EMILY SCHOOL What does it mean to grow in faith? At St. Emily School, the answer extends far beyond religion class. Faith is woven into the rhythm of each school day, in classroom discussions, weekly Mass, service projects, friendships, and the relationships students build with teachers, priests, and one another. Students are encouraged to ask questions, explore their beliefs, and deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith. Priests are a regular presence in classrooms and around campus, creating opportunities for conversations that continue long after religion class ends. As pastor Father James Presta explains, “They thirst for knowledge. They thirst to understand what it means to be a Catholic, a Christian in today’s world.” Teachers model Gospel values not only through instruction, but through the way they care for students and build a community rooted in kindness and belonging.
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That partnership between school and parish shapes the experience for the entire family. Parents see faith becoming part of everyday life as children bring lessons home, spark conversations around the dinner table, and inspire their families to grow alongside them. For many, Catholic education becomes more than an academic choice—it becomes an opportunity to strengthen family life and deepen their relationship with Christ. Parent Brian Gleeson shared, “St. Emily brought us back to the Catholic Church ... It reinvigorated us to make that commitment and be active Catholics again.” By the time students graduate, they have built a strong foundation of faith that will guide them beyond the classroom. Whether they are preparing for high school or facing new challenges, they know they are grounded in something greater than themselves. As eighth grader Grace shares, “You never feel alone in your faith because so many people around you share it.” At St. Emily, faith is not reserved for Sundays or special occasions. It is lived each day through prayer, relationships, service, and community, helping students become disciples who are prepared to carry Christ’s love into the world.
What our students are saying… Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools students are saying ...
97% agree that “I believe
that God is present in my life.”
95% agree that “My
97% agree that “When we pray at school, we have opportunities to serve as leaders.”
school is a community that helps me grow closer to Jesus.”
What our parents are saying… Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools parents are saying ...
97% agree that
“My school is a community that helps me grow closer to Jesus.”
94% agree that “Adults in the
school community are committed to the life and dignity of the human person and the need to respect people of all ages, races, religions and cultural backgrounds.”
95% agree that “School
administrators prioritize the Catholic school’s mission and vision and effectively carry out their responsibilities as faith leaders.”
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BELONGING
ST. SYMPHOROSA SCHOOL How does a Catholic school build a sense of belonging for every student and staff member? St. Symphorosa in Chicago’s Clearing neighborhood grounds belonging in its three root beliefs:
• All things are possible with God. • A community of love, kindness and support = success. • Our children are stewards of God’s gifts. The school bases every decision on what to start, stop, or continue based on those root beliefs. Dr. Kathy Berry, the principal at St. Sym’s, places a huge value on daily and weekly rituals around the school, especially during morning announcements. “These are the foundational things that we do together,” said Dr. Berry. “In this school we pray; in this school we say the Pledge of Allegiance together; in this school we talk about the great things happening in this school. These let the child know that we see you, we care about you, we love you.” Each classroom partners with another as Prayer Buddies, helping to build leadership and role model skills in older students and to teach the younger students certain behavior and skills expectations. Not only do students feel a sense of belonging at St. Sym’s, but staff members do as well. Weekly prayer circles before the day begins help center the staff, share their thoughts, and build trust and community among colleagues. “We do become a community, because then we are all supportive of each other,” said Ellie, a sixth grade student. “It makes me feel safe.” “We make sure that they’re seen, that they’re heard, because they are a valuable member of this community,” said Chris Garza, the assistant principal and middle school science teacher. “Because we have so many different ways to knit the community together, everyone is seen and recognized.”
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Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools What our students are saying… students are saying ...
97% agree that their teachers expect everyone to work hard
96% agree they feel
comfortable with teachers at their school
96% agree they work hard to do their best in their classes
Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools What our parents are saying… parents are saying ...
96% are likely
to recommend their school
97% agree that
my child feels safe at this school
95% agree that
teachers have their children’s best interest in mind
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ENROLLMENT
ST. NORBERT SCHOOL How does a Catholic school grow enrollment, especially in an environment with challenging demographic trends and highquality, well-resourced public schools nearby? St. Norbert School in Northbrook looked at those challenges and saw opportunities to improve. Guided by the strategic leadership of Dr. Maggie Hoody, the school’s former principal and current director of curriculum and student services, the school committed itself to exceptional academics and a welcoming, supportive environment. What did that commitment lead to? “The great academics is definitely pushing enrollment,” said fifth grade teacher Kristin Anson. “I think the word is out that kids that come here get the help they need and get the push they need to be successful.” That focus on academic success has driven enrollment gains of nearly 70 students since an enrollment low-point in 2018. This dedication to academic success earned St. Norbert recognition as a 2025 National Blue Ribbon School. As the school dedicates itself to academics and school culture, it looks to the future with a new principal and a recommitment to the choices and values that got them to where they are now.
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Dr. Hoody remains intent on academic excellence and growth. “We really focused on making sure that we were monitoring each child’s growth, that we were using curriculum that we knew was evidence based,” she said. “We saw that when you have a curriculum that is efficient and effective and equitable, you can really see incredible gains for kids across the board.” “As a teacher, I am seen and valued by my staff and by my students,” said MaryBeth Schwall, principal and former teacher at St. Norbert. “I know my students feel the same way about us as the adults in their lives. And so the fact that it’s growing and in such a good place is the greatest thing that could possibly happen.”
ST. NORBERT SCHOOLenrollment ENROLLMENT St. Norbert School 250
214
225
198
200
175
150
174
177
174
2021/22
2022/23
2023/24
2024/25
2025/26
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SCHOLARSHIPS
ST. MATTHIAS SCHOOL How does a Catholic school open its doors to accept every child whose family wants a Catholic education, and do so in a financially responsible way? Scholarships in Catholic schools often help open those doors to many students who might not otherwise be able to attend. They also help promote diversity in our schools, the rich tapestry of cultures, language, geography and class that we celebrate across the Archdiocese all help build a vibrant school and parish community. That is true in many places, most especially at St. Matthias in Chicago’s Lincoln Square neighborhood. Under the guidance of principal Nicole Pacholski, the school has become one of the most diverse in the neighborhood, public or private, thanks in no small part to the school’s unwavering dedication to promoting scholarships for many of their students. “I truly believe that everyone who wants a Catholic education should be entitled to receive one,” said Pacholski. “We budget and make the commitment to raise money to be able to provide financial assistance for scholars who want to attend. You put your money where your mouth is, and so if we really believe in bringing Catholic education to everyone that wants it, you have to prioritize it.”
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Parents, educators and students all value the community and strong academics that underpin everything at St. Matthias. A 2025 National Blue Ribbon School, that academic commitment extends to the rich culture at the school, something Meredith Rendina, a parent and teacher at the school, noticed immediately. “We felt the warmth and the coziness when we walked in the school, when we spoke to people here,” she said. Pacholski noted that the abrupt end of the Illinois Tax Credit Scholarship program felt like “the rug being pulled out from under” many families. The community rallied, and “there are so many students that were able to stay because families stepped up and were able to give more and recognize that diversity is important for all of the students and teachers and families.” Because at the end of the day, she said, “As a mom, as a teacher, as a principal, we want the very best for our children. I want the very best for every child that walks in these doors.”
Scholarship Impact Across the Archdiocese of Chicago
Over $7 million in scholarships awarded in 2025/26 school year.
90% of scholarship funds are issued to students of color.
66% of scholarship funds are directed to families making less than $50,000 a year. 11
YOUR SUPPORT We believe that a Catholic education is an investment in the future. The financial assistance we provide makes a tremendous impact on the thousands of students and families in our communities. We are extremely grateful for the support of our donors who partner with us. Increased donor support would not only give more deserving access to a Catholic education, it would also improve the financial strength of our schools that are most reliant on scholarships. Average scholarship award: Students with significant need applying for aid: Annual funding gap:
Driehaus Legacy Fund Achievement Award Five Catholic elementary schools received the 2025 Driehaus Legacy Fund Achievement Award and a $10,000 grant from the Stenning Foundation in recognition of exceptional year-over-year growth in reading and math. We are grateful to the Stenning Foundation for its continued investment in our Catholic schools and support of student achievement. 12
nearly $2,000 more than 10,000
$35 million
FORMING FAITH-FILLED FUTURES Thanks to your generosity, the Archdiocese of Chicago continues to provide thousands of children and their families with the financial assistance needed to enroll and stay in a highquality Catholic school. Your support makes it possible for us to fulfill our mission of delivering an excellent, faithbased academic experience to every family who seeks it. In the 2025/26 school year, our supporters once again answered the call, coming together to provide more than $7 million in scholarship support to over 3,600 children. This remarkable commitment reflects the shared belief that every child deserves access to a Catholic education, regardless of financial circumstance.
Catholic Schools Scholarship Program:
Phoenix Scholarship Program*:
Emergency Tuition Assistance Fund:
The Archdiocese of Chicago recognized an immediate need to fill the funding gap left by the demise of the Invest in Kids Act, and the Catholic Schools Scholarship Program was created, absorbing the former Caritas program under a new name. More than $4.5 million in scholarships was awarded during the 2025/26 school year.
The Catholic Education Scholarship Trust was created in 2013, offering renewable, need-based scholarships to qualified K–8 students attending eligible schools. In the 2025/26 school year, nearly $2.4 million in Phoenix scholarships were awarded.
The archdiocese established the fund to assist families with tuition when unforeseen situations arise during the school year. All students in good standing are eligible. In 2025/26, nearly $80,000 in Emergency Tuition Assistance was awarded to 86 students across 35 Catholic schools to help families facing unexpected financial hardships, including the loss of primary wage earner or serious medical emergencies.
Learn more about this program by scanning the QR code below.
To support this program, call 312.534.8278. Learn more about this program by scanning the QR code below.
*2024/25 school year data used for this report.
“I am so overwhelmed with joy right now I could cry! I just got a new job and found out my son received a scholarship for school! No one truly understands how much this means to me as a single mom. God is so good — everything is finally falling into place. Thank you to everyone who has supported me, and thank you to the archdiocese for believing in us. I’m beyond grateful!”
“Thank you so much! We appreciate the opportunity to be able to send our child to St. Anastasia for a chance at a great future! He has been improving all around and we are grateful for the continuous support from the Archdiocese of Chicago!”
— Parent of a Catholic School Scholarship Program recipient at St. Albert the Great
— Parent of a Phoenix Scholarship recipient at St. Anastasia
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De.ar Don
or:
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