Catholic Schools: Everything You Need to Know
Choosing a school for your child is always a time-consuming, challenging process. If you have been considering a Catholic School future for your child – to save you time (and stress!), we’ve got the scoop on Catholic Schools in New York City and Westchester. If you’re considering a Catholic School for your kiddo, read on to learn how these schools have thrived since the pandemic, continue to maintain community, implement safety precautions and so much more.
First things first, here’s something you should know: The Archdiocese of New York invested over $18 million to ensure schools could open on time and without incident for the 2020-21 school year. School principals worked with the Catholic Schools Reopening Advisory Council to draft an opening plan that got kids back onto a regular schedule. The plan was accommodating and flexible for different family situations.
The schools also put out the “Rising Above” opening plan for 2022-23, detailing facility requirements and guidelines when it comes to COVID-19 safety.
It’s also important to note that the Archdiocese offers a variety of tuition assistance programs, including scholarships and financial aid to qualifying families at participating schools.
With investments like these, we feel good about kids continuing to get a great education well into 2023-24. Let’s take a look at some more highlights that are making Catholic schools stand out for the next school year.
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Test Scores: Improving Since the Pandemic
When it comes to a good education, there’s something to be said about test scores. In 2022, the Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York reported continued excellence in test scores. The all-important ELA (English language arts) state test scores went up 7.3 percent, while math scores held nearly steady with only a slight decline from pre-pandemic levels.
“This is a testament to the dedication of our pastors, principals, and teachers in delivering a Christ-centered, academically excellent education,’’ Michael J. Deegan, superintendent of schools in the Archdiocese of New York, said. “These results demonstrate that our work will continue to achieve positive outcomes and elevated expectations for all our students.”
Deegan has previously noted that state test scores are one factor of academic success. The Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese use multiple measures of student growth and achievement. Deegan also noted that the schools took action throughout the pandemic that helped lead to educational success.
“Catholic schools have distinguished themselves in a way that we always knew but now the country recognizes,” Deegan said. “Through our strong test scores and post-pandemic performance, parents have recognized that what goes on in a Catholic school is not only richly Catholic but academically excellent. These two principles—our faith and our high-quality curriculum—are the underpinnings of everything we do.”
COVID-19 and Respiratory Illness Precautions
Although schools have remained open full-time for in-person learning since September 2020, the Archdiocese has still made health and safety a priority.
The Catholic schools have been—and continue to be—prepared for peak levels of respiratory illness including flu, RSV and COVID-19. Many of the precautions Catholic schools have had in place remain in the schools. These include:
• Exhaust fans in every classroom
• Frequent cleaning
• Ensuring good ventilation and air circulation throughout the buildings
• Thousands of HEPA filters deployed
Throughout the height of the pandemic, safety was a priority. Speaking of health and safety, you may be wondering how NYC Catholic schools took precautions during the pandemic to ensure little ones returned home from school happy and healthy. Maria Regina High School said last year: “All students are required to complete a daily health screening through the app SchoolPass…Students and staff entering the building have their temperature checked before signing in and moving to their classes for the day…Lunches are pre-ordered and individually bagged. We have increased our maintenance staff to deeply disinfect our school building each night after students and staff have left for the day”.
The Catholic schools also supported students by maintaining normalcy when possible. Many kept with their traditions by turning virtual. St. Raymond Academy for Girls, for example, hosted virtual spirit week and Christmas activities. St. Joseph’s School held virtual coffee house events.
A Strong Community
We all know that support also means communication. So if you choose an NYC Catholic school, how will you stay informed with what’s going on? “Our families stay connected to the school community via a number of channels,” said St. Raymond Elementary School, “We post updates of important information for parents both on our school website and on our Facebook page. In addition, our principal Eugene Scanlon emails updates to all parents and also sends home hard copies of announcements…Mr. Scanlon also publishes his Monthly Messages newsletter, which goes to parents and is also posted on our website.” We appreciate how St. Raymond Elementary School provides not just one, not just two, but multiple outlets for communication.
Jennifer Cedro Puglio has two boys who attend St. Peter’s Boys High School on Staten Island. She loves the sense of community and support network that thrives among the staff and parents.
“The staff and parents are a family. We all get along and work together and support each other’s boys,” she said. “ We look out for each other. If the boys are doing something wrong, we are always there to guide them. The principal is amazing. He knows each boy by name and treats the parents the same. He is always there to talk and is open with us. This is what makes it a Catholic school.”
Is a Catholic School the Right Fit for Your Child?
Now that you know all about the current state of NYC Catholic schools, you may still have some more general questions about whether a Catholic school is the right fit for your kiddo. Well, we’ve got you covered with that too.
Here’s the rundown: Catholic values and academic excellence guide NYC Catholic Schools. Students learn in an environment where respect, courtesy, and service to others are always part of the curriculum. Not only do these schools offer Math, Religion, English language Arts, History, and Science, but they have expanded technology in the classroom and STEM programs. Recent New York State Education Department Examination results show that Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York outperformed New York State and New York City schools in performance growth once again. Immaculate Heart of Mary, for example, has over 90 years of exceptional Pre-K to 8th grade education, and it’s been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence.
But New York Catholic schools are about a lot more than academic results. “When you send your children to Catholic school you are sending them for the community,” explained one parent in a recent Archdiocese of New York survey. Another parent said: “My children love their school. It is like family to us. They love their teachers. The teachers are the backbone of the school.” Community is a foundation at these schools, and it’s been a top priority to maintain during these challenging times.
Want to learn more about Catholic Schools and see if they’re the right fit for your family? Visit catholicschoolsny.org, check out catholicschoolbq.org, you can also go online to book a virtual tour.
Bronx
1 Cardinal Spellman Place, Bronx NY
718-881-8000 x206
admissions@cardinalspellman. org
Cardinal Spellman High School is a coeducational, college preparatory, Catholic high school located on a 13-acre campus in the Bronx, NY. Offering 20 AP and college-level courses, students can earn up to one year of college credit. Spellman has a 100% graduation rate and college acceptance rate. The Class of 2022 was awarded 76+ million in college scholarships. Spellman is home to 30 championship-winning sports teams and 50+ clubs and activities. Learn more at cardinalspellman.org.
16 North Broadway, Irvington, NY 10533
914-591-9330
Admissions@johncardinaloconnorschool.org
JCOS is dedicated to providing the benefits of a faith-based education to children who learn differently. The school empowers children to thrive academically, spiritually, emotionally, and socially in their supportive school community. JCOS is dedicated to providing an affordable learning experience backed by a skilled teaching staff. Their commitment to well-rounded schooling for students has made their private Catholic school one of the foremost in Westchester County.
2250 Williamsbridge Road, Bronx
718-882-2882
St. Catharine Academy has been preparing young women in the Mercy tradition for college success, leadership, and engagement in the world since 1889. They offer a rigorous academic curriculum, including Advancement Placement Courses, Regents Courses, and Academic Honors. With pride they report that their graduates have earned over $130 million in college academic scholarships and grants since 2014. The school welcomes young women of all faiths and backgrounds.
2050 Benedict Ave.
718-892-3234
A culturally diverse Middle School Accredited Catholic school that educates children from full-day pre-K to 8th grade in the Park Chester/Castle Hill section of the Bronx. The school motto is “It’s Fun to be Good!” Students in grades 1 through 8 have a schedule from 8 a.m to 2:35 p.m. daily. Students enjoy two periods of gym, computers, and library each week in state-of-the-art facilities. Extracurricular activities include boys’ and girls’ basketball, track, bowling, volleyball, Cub Scouts, and summer camp. The graduates have earned over $300,000 in college scholarships.
1725 Castle Hill Avenue, Bronx
718-824-4220
St. Raymond Academy, a Catholic high school for young women in an urban setting, inspires students to reach their God-given potential in a safe, supportive and diverse environment. With a state- approved curriculum and extracurricular activities, they encourage students to seek value and truth. With an education of excellence, self-discipline, and Christian values, they challenge students to become successful and accountable in a dynamic society.
2380 E. Tremont Avenue, Bronx NY
718-597-3232
This school offers a full-day academic program for PreK3 through Grade 8 in a safe, nurturing, and academically motivating environment, and a broad array of extracurricular activities. Their offerings include Catholic faith formation; advanced-level math and science; Italian; remediation and enrichment programs; academic intervention; a full-time full-time art teacher and strong music program; SMART boards in all classrooms; primary and middle-grade libraries; two science labs; two computer labs; a full sports program and fitness center; before-and after-school programs; school nurse; air-conditioned classrooms; moderate tuition and financial assistance for those who qualify.
2872 St. Theresa Ave., Bronx
718-792-3688
The program reflects an integrated learning experience for Universal Pre-K (3 and 4 year olds) and students in grades K through eighth. The staff impart their knowledge and extensive experience with enthusiasm and a truly caring respect for the children in their charge. The school provides before and after school programs, choir, art, music, Italian language studies, computer classes and more. St.Theresa School offers children a place to blossom in a structured disciplined environment.
Brooklyn
365 83rd Street
Brooklyn, NY
718-745-7643
Launched in 2020, Bay Ridge Catholic prepares students for optimal success in school and life. The school is centered on faith, arts and culture engineering. Students are taught the skills they will need to succeed in the modern economy. STEM Lab, foreign language in K-8 and cutting edge technology.
Our Lady of Trust Catholic Academy
1696 Canarsie Road
Brooklyn, NY
718-241-6633
oltca.org
Pre-K3 (3-year-old program) through grade 8 instruction. Smartboard, Computers, and Internet access in every classroom. Our Lady of Trust Catholic Academy provides all students with a Catholic faith-based education rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. They strive to facilitate each child’s optimum growth and development – spiritually, intellectually, and socially. Under the guidance of Our Lady of Trust, the school fosters and creates an atmosphere of warmth and caring, a place where the development of confident, self-sufficient, responsible, moral human beings may flourish and grow. The school provides a safe, nurturing learning environment for each child. Academic principles serving children and reflecting their multicultural backgrounds.
Saint Mark Catholic Academy
2602 E 19th St
Brooklyn, NY 11235
718-332-9304
smcaonthebay.org
Saint Mark Catholic Academy, a faith community of students (ages 3 – grade 8), parents and teachers, is dedicated to personal excellence in the traditions of the school’s Catholic education heritage. The academy values the uniqueness and dignity of all individuals, and respects the diversity of nationalities, races and religions true to their Sheepshead Bay location. The academy stands committed to training analytical learners, critical thinkers, and responsible decision makers for further study in the 21st century’s global and technological society.
Saint Saviour Catholic Academy
701 8th Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11215
saintsaviourcatholicacademy.org
Saint Saviour Catholic Academy educates students from PK3 to Grade 8. They provide a nurturing and supportive environment where students grow academically and build a strong sense of community. The school’s focus is to encourage the child to analyze thoroughly, communicate effectively, grow in faith, and love learning.
Sheepshead Bay
1902 Avenue
718-648-9929
saintedmundelem@gmail.com
Andrea D’Enic – Principal
A co-educational elementary school serving students from Nursery through 8th Grade. The school endeavors to educate the whole child: Spiritually, academically, socially, and physically, to become responsible moral citizens in today’s society. The school envisions its program as an academic center founded upon solid Christian and academic principles serving children and reflecting their multicultural backgrounds. St. Edmund Preparatory High School is located next door, and they enjoy a close, ongoing relationship. Many of their graduates go on to high school at St. Edmund Prep.
St Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy
241 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY
718-768-7629
SJWCA is a Catholic Elementary School serving PK3 through grade 8 in Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn. The school fosters spiritual development, academic excellence, responsibility to self, and service to others. SJWCA has a challenging academic core curriculum aligned with the NY State Next Generation Learning Standards. SJWCA provides students with a student-centered, socially responsive environment in which faculty is dedicated to supporting the whole child. In addition to the core curriculum, the students at SJWCA also take courses in Spanish, Art, Music, Technology, and Physical Education and are offered a wide array of enrichment classes.
Long Island
25 Store Hill Road
Old Westbury, NY 11568
Instagram: @holychild_LI
516-626-9300
admissions@hcali.org
Holy Child Academy is Long Island’s only premier, independent Catholic school for children of all faiths – toddler through eighth grade. Their creative educators help each child develop a joy for learning by seamlessly integrating a traditional curriculum with technology, fine arts, music, theater, and athletics.
Manhattan
1 Cardinal Spellman Place, Bronx NY
718-881-8000 x206
admissions@cardinalspellman. org
Cardinal Spellman High School is a coeducational, college preparatory, Catholic high school located on a 13-acre campus in the Bronx, NY. Offering 20 AP and college-level courses, students can earn up to one year of college credit. Spellman has a 100% graduation rate and college acceptance rate. The Class of 2022 was awarded 76+ million in college scholarships. Spellman is home to 30 championship-winning sports teams and 50+ clubs and activities. Learn more at cardinalspellman.org.
St. Joseph’s School – Yorkville
40 East 87th Street, New York
212-289-3057
Founded in 1880, St. Joseph’s School – Yorkville, is located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan and serves the five boroughs, upper counties of New York, and New Jersey. St. Joseph’s is an inquiry-based learning environment that nurtures and challenges every child, Pre-K 3 to 8th grade. Dedicated to the education of a diverse student body,the staff and faculty work within the framework of Catholic values. Early Drop-Off; After-School and Enrichment Programs; free breakfast and lunch; Early Childhood Playroom, Gym, Music and Art Rooms. Library; tech lab; K-8 Enrichment program includes: Physical Education, Music, Visual Arts, Drama, Cooking, Foreign Language, and Choir; CYO Sports.
Queens
89-15 Francis Lewis Blvd., Queens Village, NY
718- 465-5066
Incarnation Catholic Academy is a family-oriented school grounded in the Catholic faith. The school strives to academically, spiritually and technologically prepare our students for higher education and to adapt to an ever-changing world. This is achieved by providing academic preparation through a challenging curriculum, a caring environment, and being sensitive to the needs of a diverse society. The academy is committed to inspiring the students to become moral decision-makers, effective communicators, critical thinkers, problem solvers, and lifelong learners.
25-38 80th St., Jackson Heights
718-429-7031
Offering a quality, innovative Catholic education for over 70 years, in grades nursery to 8. Offering Mommy and Me for 18 months to 2-year-olds with a getting ready for a Nursery school program. They seek to educate the whole person: mind, heart, soul, and body to develop strategic thinkers for the 21st century. Students are engaged in their learning with 1:1 technology in the classroom and outside of the classroom, students are engaged in performing arts programs, fine arts programs, intramurals, and many other activities led by the faculty. Please contact them for registration information or to request a tour and find them on Facebook at facebook.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Academy
111-10 115 St., South Ozone Park
718- 843-4184
With students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade – the faculty and staff of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Academy are diligent in their commitment to the spiritual, academic, physical, social and emotional growth of each child. The multi-sensory, Next Generation Standards curriculum and cross-curricular instruction ensure that each student’s individual needs are met. Students consistently show outstanding performance in mathematics, language arts and science on statewide testing. For more information, please call or visit olphca.org.
Saint Margaret Catholic Academy
66-10 80th Street
Middle Village, New York 11379
718-326-0922
stmargoffice@gmail.com
Saint Margaret Catholic Academy exists to educate and form young people in light of the Gospel. Our students are nurtured in a loving academic environment by our dedicated faculty and staff, who recognize the unique talents of each student. We help all students attain their full potential through an integrated academic curriculum, rooted in Gospel values and Catholic teachings. Saint Margaret Catholic Academy encourages students to achieve their full potential spiritually, morally, and academically.
St Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy Astoria
21-18 46th St., Astoria, NY
718-726-9405
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy is proud to open its doors to learn, serve, lead, and succeed in this academic year. Our goal of success for all inspires a curriculum that supports students’ strengths and helps them maximize their potential. This changing world requires students to be creative, artistic, tech-savvy, and resourceful; therefore, the academy programs are designed to educate the whole child in academia, STEM, and the arts. The faculty knows that the spiritual, emotional, and social well-being of each child in our CARE (Cooperation, Acceptance, Respect, Empathy) is essential to their growth and is reflected in every aspect of a child’s educational journey at SFACA.
St. Gregory the Great Catholic Academy
244-44 87th Ave, Bellerose, NY
718- 343-5053
office@sgtgca.org
St. Gregory the Great Catholic Academy school is committed to educating the whole person (mind, body, and soul) through a vibrant, safe, faith-filled environment. Their student body consists of early childhood through 8th grade. They follow Next Generation Learning Standards and strive to meet or exceed all New York State Learning Standards. All students will benefit from the Art, STEAM, Music, and Foreign Language programs provided to all grades as well as many extra-curricular activities. Discover what makes St. Gregory’s so great!
28-46 44 St., Long Island City, NY
718-728-0724
St. Joseph Catholic Academy is committed to developing students of diverse backgrounds and faiths from nursery through 8th grade by providing a well-rounded foundation for future learning and life. In addition to religion class and religious activities, they offer a rigorous academic program, complemented by classes in music, art, library, physical education, Spanish, Mandarin, and yoga/mindfulness. All instructional areas are equipped with modern technology. They also offer the 3-K for All and Pre-K for All programs of the NYC Board of Education for 3 & 4-year-olds.
104-19 49th Ave Corona NY 11368
718-592-7050 ext. 202
office@stleocatholicacademy.org
St. Leo Catholic Academy is a Catholic elementary school located in Corona, Queens, founded by the Gray Nuns of the Sacred Heart in 1924. The school’s mission is to provide spiritual, academic and social awareness which reflects the beliefs of their Catholic faith. The school’s credo, “Seeing Christ in One Another”, comes to life on a daily basis. They are committed to excellence, and strive to provide educational experiences to guide each student to become an educated, morally responsible, caring and productive member of the community.
Westchester
1 Cardinal Spellman Place, Bronx NY
718-881-8000 x206
admissions@cardinalspellman.org
Cardinal Spellman High School is a coeducational, college preparatory, Catholic high school located on a 13-acre campus in the Bronx, NY. Offering 20 AP and college-level courses, students can earn up to one year of college credit. Spellman has a 100% graduation rate and college acceptance rate. The Class of 2022 was awarded 76+ million in college scholarships. Spellman is home to 30 championship-winning sports teams and 50+ clubs and activities. Learn more at cardinalspellman.org.
172 White Plains Road, Bronxville NY
914-337-3202
info@thechapelschool.org
Since 1947, The Chapel School (TCS) has engaged a diverse community of learners with challenging academics and personalized attention, encouraged explorers to take advantage of thriving extra-curricular activities, and empowered leaders to build character and serve others. Join TCS Family and give your child the opportunity to be their best!
German International School New York
50 Partridge Road, White Plains, NY
admissions@gisny.org
914- 948-6513
For over 40 years, GISNY, an independent, bilingual Pre-K through Grade 12 college preparatory program, has cultivated students to develop into curious, analytical, and conscientious global citizens. GISNY is the only school in the tri-state area where graduates earn the NYS High School Diploma and the German International Abitur. No German is required for entering Pre-K or Kindergarten children. All nationalities are welcome!
16 North Broadway, Irvington, NY 10533
914-591-9330
Admissions@johncardinaloconnorschool.org
JCOS is dedicated to providing the benefits of a faith-based education to children who learn differently. The school empowers children to thrive academically, spiritually, emotionally, and socially in their supportive school community. JCOS is dedicated to providing an affordable learning experience backed by a skilled teaching staff. Their commitment to well-rounded schooling for students has made their private Catholic school one of the foremost in Westchester County.
Staten Island
1305 Hylan Blvd., 10305
Sr. Sharon McCarthy
718-351-0939
srsharon@academyofstdorothy.org
Academy of St. Dorothy (ASD) is a private elementary school in Old Town with a focus on academic excellence through a nurturing, collaborative learning environment. ASD instills in students, from pre-k through eighth grade, the religious and moral values of a Catholic Christian environment – community, service, reverence and leadership. ASD offers instruction, activities and sports on its vast and easily accessible 13-acre campus.
Learn and Explore Preschool.
850 Hylan Blvd., 10305
St. Joseph Hill Academy Elementary School is a premier co-educational, pre-K 3 and pre-K 4 to 8th Catholic school. The school provides a traditional learning classroom environment that incorporates a variety of innovative learning models to provide instruction to students. At SJHA, students develop a lifelong love of learning.
Updated 1/24/2023
