is where a spark begins, igniting the passion, purpose and heart for everything that follows.
Every student is born with God-given gifts — and our purpose is to inspire them to discover, develop and share those gifts with the world. Whether it’s on the stage, field or canvas or in the lab, our Patriots are encouraged to explore their interests deeply and fearlessly. We guide students to see their passions as a calling — an opportunity to serve others and live out their faith in meaningful ways. Students are inspired to connect what they love with who they are called to be.
Igniting purpose: A Mission-Focused Education
Mission & Ministry
As a Catholic School, faith in God is at the heart of the Patriot Experience. We inspire our students to realize the dignity within themselves as well as in each other. Creating a culture of respect and belonging is a moral obligation rooted in the Gospel and an integral part of education at The John Carroll School.
The Mission & Ministry Office facilitates:
• over 60 masses a year, both school-wide and small group.
• a four-year religion curriculum that deepens students’ awareness of God’s presence and encourages faith-informed choices.
• a robust four-year retreat program that enables our students to share and reflect upon how God is actively working in their lives, all while building connections with classmates.
• a Peer Ministry Program that cultivates faith-filled leaders.
Community service is an essential part of personal growth and a demand of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Service to others, especially the most vulnerable, provides an opportunity for individuals to contribute to society while learning new skills and gaining valuable experiences. As such, each student dedicates a minimum of 80 hours of community service prior to Graduation.
Through immersive service-learning experiences, such as trips to Appalachia and Costa Rica, students have the opportunity to grow, learn, connect and make an impact.
Academics
Colleges and employers value critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to conduct research and analysis. Our curriculum develops these standout skills, empowering our graduates to excel in any field. Plus, our diverse course offerings, ranging from Criminal and Civil Law to Architecture, give students the freedom to delve into their passions, fostering a well-rounded, future-ready education.
For students looking for more rigorous coursework, two selective programs are:
AP Capstone
The AP Capstone Diploma is a uniquely distinguished, four- year program that offers select John Carroll students the opportunity to participate in one of the most rigorous academic endeavors available. Participating students take six AP courses, including AP Seminar, AP Research and four additional AP courses of their choice.
STEAM ACADEMY
The STEAM Academy is an invitation-only program that provides opportunities for advanced students who have a strong interest and aptitude to explore different fields in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. Courses include Computer Science Principles, Introduction to AI, Cyber Security, Digital Media, Engineering and Marine Biology!
View our current course offerings.
Learn by Thinking Doing and Cultivatinggrowth:
The driving motivation to renovate the science classrooms and labs and update lab equipment is so our students will be well-prepared thinkers, comfortable with and knowledgeable about the latest technology, and successful in whatever college environment they choose.
Julie Baker, Ph.D., The John Carroll School Science Department Chair
Learning Support Services
St. Joseph Program
We recognize that each student has a unique approach to learning, and the St. Joseph Program supports those with documented learning differences. Our experienced learning specialists understand individual learning styles and firmly believe that all students can succeed if provided with the appropriate support and necessary accommodations.
“
In the St. Joseph Program, we help students with learning differences become independent thinkers and confident in taking intellectual risks by fostering a supportive, structured and empowering learning environment where differences are celebrated.
”
Kelly Roiy, Director of Learning Support Services
Academic Support Program
This program empowers students to achieve their full academic potential and success both inside and outside the classroom. It provides educational support for students who may experience difficulty with the transition to high school or demands of a college-preparatory curriculum. Students may have a 504 plan, received low test scores on standardized tests and/or previously struggled in academic work or with executive functioning skills.
Experiences Uniquelearning
Learning Happens on and off our 72-acre campus
Our campus is designed to engage and connect. Much of our curriculum takes learning outside the classroom.
The John Carroll School’s academic day begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 2:45 p.m., except for Wednesdays, when class begins at 9:00 a.m.
Students follow an eight-day academic cycle, labeled A-H each day, that allows for optimal instruction because it varies the time of day the student has the class. It also helps students to avoid missing the same class each week for sports games and other co-curricular events that may occur on the same day of the week. See our sample Freshman schedule below.
Fueling passions:
Nurture & Share God-Given
Arts
Arts at John Carroll play an integral role in academic and co-curricular school life. While our students' work is beautiful, the process of creativity is valued the most. We invite students of all levels to experience and delve into a rich curriculum that offers a depth and breadth of learning unmatched by other area arts programs. Be part of a culture of creative thinking, learning, visual production and appreciation of artistic achievements of people from different cultures and times. With opportunities in performing arts, visual arts and literary arts, students are encouraged to use their creativity for the greater good.
college preparatory dance program
We offer four-year, conservatory-level dance training in an academic setting, all while maintaining a balance of classes, performing and cross-training. Classes include Ballet, Modern and Contemporary Dance Technique, as well as studies in Dance Science, Dance History and Composition. Each class is for credit and included in tuition.
The Fine Arts Diploma with Distinction
The Fine Arts Diploma with Distinction (FADD) celebrates the accomplishments of students who make a commitment to pursuing Fine Arts throughout their high school experience. The FADD Program is comprised of three entities — Performing Arts, Visual Art and Design or Literary Arts — which may be intertwined to meet student needs.
26%
70 % 4.02
177
Coaches are faculty/staff members Class of 2025 graduates went on to particpate in NCAA Athletics
Cumulative, weighted GPA of student-athletes
IAAM/MIAA Championships across 29 programs
Playoff appearances (past two years) Championships Coach of the Year awards 6 8 51
Athletics
At the heart of Patriots Athletics are our foundational values — authentic and meaningful encounters, development, accountability and leadership. Athletic pursuits not only strengthen the body but also enrich the mind and spirit, forging well-rounded studentathletes who understand the value of team. As Patriots, student-athletes are valued, encouraged to take risks and inspired to realize full potential.
Clubs
Clubs and activities reflect the diverse interests of our student body and allow students to forge deep, meaningful friendships, grow together and create cherished memories. We offer more than 40 student-led clubs and activities, but students are encouraged to propose new ideas.
Creating connections: Authentic Encounters
Costa Rica Service Trip | April 2025
John Carroll
Student Life
Student life is about authentic encounters, and they are at the heart of everything we do. Whether it's a conversation with a teacher who truly listens, a moment of laughter with classmates between classes, cheering on the Patriots at a Friday Fall Fun Night Football game or a quiet prayer shared in Chapel, our students are known and valued.
Student life is vibrant, faith-filled and full of moments that matter. It's where friendships form, faith deepens and character is built. Student life at The John Carroll School includes:
• All-school events, dances, spirit weeks and service days that foster school pride and shared joy.
• Leadership opportunities that help students use their voices and make an impact.
• Clubs and activities that reflect the diverse interests of our student body.
• Campus Ministry inviting students to lead through service, prayer and mission-focused outreach.
• A 72-acre campus thoughtfully designed to engage and connect students, faculty/staff, alumni, visitors and others.
Our Educators
Our dedicated faculty are mentors, guides and often coaches. With personalized attention and a deep belief in each student's potential, we foster an environment where passions are not just discovered — they’re celebrated.
72% Faculty hold advanced degrees
11:1 Studentteacher ratio
13% Faculty members hold a Ph.D.
3 Designated college counselors providing support for students
Our School counselors
Our compassionate and experienced counselors provide confidential, faithinformed guidance. Students can count on our team for personalized care that supports their emotional, social and spiritual well-being. When students feel secure and supported, they thrive and are inspired to make a difference.
Our college counselors
Our team of expert College Counselors are committed to helping students navigate their journeys with confidence. Understanding every student’s distinctive academic and personal aspirations, the College Counseling Office offers start-to-finish guidance, steadfast support and an extensive network to help students realize their dreams beyond John Carroll.
Over all four years, the College Counselors work with families through one-on-one meetings, in college planning courses and during annual parent information nights.
The John Carroll School
Becoming a Patriot:
next steps
Application Process
The John Carroll School accepts students who are mission-aligned in their values, motivated to meet the rigor of college-prep work, and eager to learn and succeed. Candidates are evaluated on:
• middle school performance;
• standardized test scores;
• teacher recommendations; and
• performance on the High School Placement Test (HSPT).
But, that’s not all we consider. We know each student is more than a sum of grades and scores. We want students who show they’re willing to lead; who seek to solve problems and think critically; who see strength in collaboration and diverse perspectives; and most of all, who can maximize every opportunity to make their mark on the world.
financial aid & Scholarships
We understand that enrolling your child in an independent school is a significant investment that may require planning and drawing from a variety of resources. As we uphold our mission, the School is committed to providing and sharing tuition assistance opportunities through financial aid and scholarships.
Need-Based Aid: The Admissions Office provides guidance for all families interested in this process. Our Financial Aid Committee closely reviews your family’s unique financial situation based on evaluation from FACTS Management Company (FACTS), a third-party vendor, and makes allocations based on whether your family qualifies for need-based aid.
Merit-Based Aid & Scholarships: We are proud to offer several merit-based scholarships that are awarded on a competitive basis. Freshmen admitted to the School are automatically considered for many merit awards, if completed admission applications are received by the December 10 deadline; recipients will be notified as part of their acceptance package.
