The 91 Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis build on a tradition of excellence to form the future of our Church and society, and provide an education that will benefit students for life.
91 Catholic schools
79 Catholic elementary schools
16 Catholic High Schools
More than
31,000 preschool-12 students
enrolled
4th largest school district in the state of Minnesota
97% of high school graduates continue their education
As a vital ministry of the Catholic Church, our schools:
- Provide an excellent education. They are academically excellent, not just strong in their Catholic identity. They are a terrific option for families seeking to provide their children with top quality education that is rooted in Catholic values and formation.
- Have a demonstrated track record — and ongoing momentum. Over the last three years, systemwide enrollment has increased by more than 9%. Families are finding a trusted educational partner in our Catholic schools.
- Serve — and reflect — their local communities. Our 91 schools across the greater 12-county metropolitan area of Saint Paul and Minneapolis serve Catholic and non-Catholic families. Our schools are for everyone who desires an excellent Catholic education, not just for families who can afford a private education. The makeup of students mirrors the diverse population of the communities our schools serve.
- Play a direct role in the future of the faith. With Jesus Christ at the center, they are vital hubs of formation and evangelization. Discipleship is the culture in our Catholic schools; it’s not reserved for religion classes alone.
- Work in partnership with leaders, parents, parishes and supporters. Individuals and organizations in the Archdiocese are generous in their support of Catholic schools and partner to strengthen our system and help ensure that excellent Catholic education is available, and students flourish.
Our Patroness
Our Lady, Seat of Wisdom
Feast Day: June 8
The icon is inspired by art depicting Our Lady, Seat of Wisdom, and symbolizes the foundation of the Archdiocesan Catholic school system. Holy Mary and the Child Jesus represent parents, teachers, children, care and life, while an open book symbolizes the Gospel and the fruits of rigorous study.
Prayer for the Intercession of Our Lady, Seat of Wisdom
O God, infinitely wise, in order to raise the fallen,
you decreed that the Virgin Mary should be the dwelling place of your Wisdom.
Through her intercession may we avoid the spirit of pride and, following her example, serve you with a true spirit of humility.
We ask this through Christ our Lord,
Amen.
History
The Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis has a rich tradition of excellence in Catholic education. Bishop Joseph Cretin’s invitation in 1851 to the Sisters of Saint Joseph to lead the first school for girls in what was then the Northwest United States marked the beginning of the local Church’s investment in Catholic schools to advance the mission of Catholic education. Burgeoning from this original vision, Catholic schools in the Archdiocese have been blessed with committed leaders, dedicated teachers and devoted benefactors. Catholic schools in the Archdiocese continue to represent a core ministry of parishes.
Office for the Mission of Catholic Education
At the service of the Archbishop, the Office for the Mission of Catholic Education provides vision, support and direction to those who lead and teach in the name of the Church within the Archdiocese so that they can achieve their mission to proclaim Jesus Christ and form authentic disciples.