How will the initiatives announced in August 2011 strengthen Catholic schools?

Initiatives (pdf) are aimed at improving consistency for increased quality and greater efficiency which will serve to strengthen schools while respecting local culture. The initiatives are consistent with the overarching direction of the archdiocesan Strategic Plan which is aimed at fostering a culture of increased collaboration, ongoing evaluation, and greater accountability in parishes and schools throughout this local Church. The initiatives will also assist the Archdiocese, schools and parishes to do a better job of sharing the incredible value of a Catholic school education.

How were the initiatives developed?

The Catholic Schools Commission was established in January 2011 to build upon the work done over the past two years by the Archdiocesan Strategic Planning Task Force and the Alliance for Catholic Education consultants from the University of Notre Dame. The Commission engaged with stakeholders across the Archdiocese throughout its work. Consultation opportunities included focus groups, meetings, and web surveys participated in by more than 3,000 school and parish leaders, parents, teachers, and others. The Commission submitted its recommendations to the Archbishop in June 2011. After a period of careful review, the Archbishop announced the approved initiatives in August 2011.

How many Catholic schools are there in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis?

There are 95 schools, including elementary and high schools. Schools in the Archdiocese are located from Forest Lake in the north to Faribault in the south; from Maple Lake in the west to the Wisconsin border in the east. Please visit our interactive maps to see the location of schools in the Archdiocese.

How many students attend Catholic schools in the Archdiocese?

More than 30,000 students in pre-k through 12th grade attend Catholic schools here.

What is the Catholic high school graduation rate?

99.4% of local Catholic high school students graduate and 97.2% go on to continue their education or serve in the military.

Do you have other evidence of academic excellence?

All Catholic school 8th graders in the Archdiocese take the SAT 10 standardized test. On this test in 2010-2011: 96% of 8th graders ranked average or above in math problem solving;  94% ranked average or above in science; and 93% ranked average or above in reading comprehension

Is financial assistance available?

All Catholic schools work with families to help make Catholic education affordable. The Archdiocese provides nearly $3 million in financial assistance to families and schools annually. In the coming years, even more support will be dedicated to student-based financial aid through the work of the Aim Higher Foundation. In addition, each individual school works with its own families to make Catholic education affordable. Alumnae, parishioners and other Catholic school benefactors help make Catholic school affordable through their generous support.

I believe in the incredible value of a Catholic school education. How can I help support local Catholic schools?

Share the good news about Catholic schools! Talk with other parents about the incredible lifelong value a Catholic school education offers families. Be an advocate – word of mouth travels fast!  Also consider giving of your time and talent at a Catholic school of your choice. If you would like to financially support Catholic schools in the Archdiocese, please contact the Office of Development and Stewardship at 651.290.1610.

What if my child has special learning needs?

Catholic schools have access to special education services from the public districts they are located within. Approximately 1,300 Catholic school students received special education services last year. 33% of students who received special education services received beyond what is funded by the state. Last year, 61 schools received Title I services from their public districts. Many schools have additional programs for students who need additional assistance but do not qualify for special education services through their public district.

Are Catholic schools accredited?

All Catholic schools in the Archdiocese are accredited or in the process of being accredited by a state-recognized accreditation agency.

Is transportation available?

Yes. In fact, nearly 15,000 Catholic school students received subsidized transportation last year through cooperation with public school district transportation offices.

Does my family need to be Catholic to attend?

The Catholic faith is integral to all aspects of school life, but all are welcome. Approximately 13% of Catholic school students are not themselves Catholic.

Do Catholic schools offer preschool?

53 schools have pre-school programs including full-day programs. See where they are.

Do Catholic Schools offer extended day programs?

74 schools have extended day programs.

I want to find out more. Is there someone I can talk with about Catholic schools?

Of course! Please call 612-SCHOOLS (612.724.6657) or email us.

Data from 2010-11 school year.