St. Catharine Academy is a Catholic, college preparatory school for young women grades 6–12. The mission of St. Catharine Academy is to prepare young women, in the Mercy tradition for college success, leadership, and engagement in the world community.
Why All-Girls?
Studies show that an all-girls environment allows students to develop:
• Academically
• As Leaders
• With Confidence
Why SCA?
• 135-year history teaching girls.
• Inclusive curriculum that values our students’ diverse experiences.
• Health and wellness program that supports and respects our girls.
• Our STEM program allows students to build a future in science, technology, engineering, math, and architecture.
Stand Up. Stand Out.
Be Heard. Be Seen.
A Safe and Healthy Environment
At SCA, we promote Social and Emotional Learning that is supplemented by:
• A culture of inclusion that welcomes all students and families.
• Caring faculty and staff who create an atmosphere of sincere support for the well-being and academic success of every student.
• An environment that promotes the protection of students from violence and threats in all forms.
• A guidance department staffed by three professionals who are dedicated to addressing the needs of our students.
“The advantage of attending an all-girls school is that you can share a lot of your input with people who have the same mindset as you. Attending an allgirls school creates much more of an empowering environment where we can create better friendships and help each other out in different ways.”
Sabrina V. Class of 2024
Building a Better World Starts with You
Our Model of Instruction:
• iPads are provided for all students and are included as part of tuition.
• Signature Program — STEM — students are offered an array of courses and opportunities outside the classroom. This past year, SCA was recognized nationally as a Beta School of Distinction. The Robotics Team attended many competitions during the school year and was awarded three judges awards and one design award.
• We offer a rich array of clubs and student organizations and a top-tier athletics program where leadership skills are learned and developed.
• SCA’s curriculum prepares students for college and successful careers. The Class of 2024 earned over $21.7 million in academic scholarships and awards and acceptance to 145 colleges and universities. Most subject areas offer courses at the Regents, Academic Honors, Advanced Placement, or College Credit levels to meet the needs, interests, and abilities of every student.
• For all grade levels, St. Catharine Academy adheres to New York State Standards.
• Students in the 8th grade will have the opportunity to take the Algebra and U.S. History NY State Regents Exam.
Parents overwhelmingly agree that SCA sets and communicates a high standard for academic performance.
Social and Emotional Learning
At SCA leadership is fostered through:
• Modeling—our administration, faculty and staff model leadership attributes at all levels.
• Risk Taking—students are supported when they step outside of their comfort zone and challenge themselves.
• Engagement—in a community built on trust, students raise their voices in support of those in need.
• Responsible Citizenship—compelled by mercy, students are called to serve others.
“SCA not only provided me with the necessary academic assistance, but also offered invaluable support, ensuring that I never felt alone. Their encouragement and insistence on giving my best, even when faced with adversity, instilled in me a determination to never give up on my goals.”
Shasly H. Class of 2024
How to Apply. .
GRADES 6 THROUGH 8
St. Catharine Academy does not require a separate application to enroll for SCA Middle School. An interview may be required after registration is completed. To register, please go to scahs.org/SCAMiddleSchool.
The following documentation is needed to register:
• Most recent report card
• Standardized testing results
• Birth certificate
• Current IESP, if applicable
• Current scholarship award letter, if applicable
GRADES 9 THROUGH 12
Students who are interested in applying for St. Catharine Academy must take the Test for Admission to Catholic High Schools (TACHS) on Friday, November 8th. If you miss the TACHS Exam you will be required to take an online Entrance Exam provided by SCA. The cost of the exam is $71 and will begin being offered on January 23rd, 2025. In addition to the TACHS exam, we look at students’ 6th, 7th, and 8th grade school reports. Please note that SCA will review your daughter’s record holistically. SCA Middle School students are automatically accepted into the high school and will not need to take the TACHS exam.
Financial Aid Opportunities
GRADES 6 THROUGH 8
At this time, St. Catharine Academy does not offer school-based financial aid for the Middle School. SCA participates in such programs as Be a Student’s Friend, Inner-City Scholarship, and The Children’s Scholarship.
Applications for financial assistance must be made through a participating agency.
Financial Aid Opportunities
GRADES
9 THROUGH 12
Through the generosity of our donors and friends, we are able to offer limited financial assistance. SCA also participates in the following programs:
• Be A Student’s Friend
• BridgeUp
• Inner-City Scholarship Fund
• Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club
Grants Available
GRADES 6 THROUGH 12
Legacy Grant: A $1,000 grant is awarded to students whose parent, legal guardian, or sibling graduated from St. Catharine Academy. To apply, please provide the name, relationship, and year of graduation of the alumna. The Legacy Grant cannot be combined with any other SCA tuition discounts except the sibling discount.
Sibling Discount: If you have another daughter in either the Middle or High School, she is eligible for the Sibling Discount, a reduction of one month’s tuition.
Catholic School Employee Grant: $1,000 grant for employees of other Catholic schools. To be eligible you must:
• Be a full-time employee
• Email admissions@scahs.org for verification of employment via two (2) most recent pay stubs
• Be listed as a financially responsible party in FACTS, our tuition collection company
Academic Scholarship Information
GRADES 9 THROUGH 12
Huskie for a Day
GRADE 8
Students in the 8th grade will have the chance to spend a day at SCA. This experience will allow them to immerse themselves in the high school environment, meet prospective teachers, and make friends with future classmates. Huskie for a Day takes place Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. To register for Huskie for a Day, visit scahs.org/HuskieforaDay.
An invitation to become a Trustee Scholar is given to freshmen who achieve a rank of 92nd percentile on the TACHS examination and meet attendance and behavior requirements. Students must place SCA on
their list of schools on the TACHS to be considered for a Trustee Scholarship. A Trustee Scholarship is equal to 55% of tuition. Students must follow the prescribed course of study and meet academic and behavior standards to remain eligible. Students may enter the Trustee Scholar Program at any grade level.
