Designation as an independent Catholic School!

Dear Chesterton Family,

The Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict, an independent Catholic School within the Diocese of Columbus is excited to share that the Most Reverend Earl K. Fernandes has designated us as an independent Catholic School. This action is an important step on our journey to provide a joyful Catholic education in the Classical model to the Columbus area for generations. The designation affords us the opportunity to work more closely with the Diocese and the Catholic Schools Office to provide our students with a faithful education in a safe environment, receive accreditation through the Ohio Catholic Schools Accrediting Association, and ultimately a state charter in which there will be no compromise to our Catholic identity. It also ensures that our Fidelity to the Magisterium will be indissoluble throughout the life of our school. 

What is changing?

·       We can refer to ourselves as a Catholic school!

·       Diocesan priests can hold Mass, Reconciliation, or other religious services specifically for our students.

·       We have formal access to Diocesan resources, such as the Catholic Schools Office, Safe Environment office, and Divine Worship Office, and the ability to become accredited and chartered. Obtaining a charter is key for students to obtain state scholarships.

·       Our teachers will obtain teaching licenses through the Ohio Department of Education and the Office of Catholic Schools.

·       The Bishop or his delegate will have an ex-officio seat on our Board of Directors.

What does not change?

·       Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict remains independent with its own finances and board of directors, drawing students from anywhere in the Diocese.

·       Our strict adherence to the educational model defined by the Chesterton Schools Network, and our accreditation as a Chesterton School within the Network.

·       Our need of your prayers for the continued growth and success of the school!

We would like to thank the Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Dr. Adam Dufault, for working with us over the past years to gain this designation and for providing us early access to critical resources, such as the Safe Environment team as we have sought to provide a Catholic Classical educational option to Columbus.

Sincerely,

The Chesterton Academy of St. Benedict Board of Directors