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Catholic Central High School is the oldest co-educational diocesan Catholic high school in the United States.
Since our founding in 1906, we have been proud to provide a Catholic education in Grand Rapids, Michigan-a culturally rich environment where students learn to live by the Dominican pillars.
At the core of every lesson is our commitment to forming servant leaders through prayer, study, service, and community.
We are also proud to be the first and only STEM-certified high school in Michigan, demonstrating our dedication to academic excellence and innovation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Biology, Calculus, Capstone, Chemistry, English Language, English Literature, Macroeconomics, Psychology, Research, Seminar, Statistics, US Government & Politics, US History, World History
Average SAT score
1148
(Out of 1600)
Average ACT score
24
(Out of 36)
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Khaki pants/shorts/plaid skirt and polo/button down
Catholic Central is committed to making Catholic education accessible to families from a range of economic backgrounds. We recognize that paying tuition is a considerable investment for most families. That’s why we believe that tuition should not be a “one-size fits all” model or a reason why students cannot attend Catholic Central. We are proud to offer Variable Tuition. Learn more about how Variable Tuition can make a Catholic Central education possible for your family at www.grcatholiccentral.org.
Club or Organization: Baking Club, Catholic Central Association of Scholarly Science-Fiction Enthusiasts, Chinese Club, Debate, E-Sports Club, Finance Club, French Club, Men's Group, Mock Trial, Model United Nations, National Honor Society, Peace Jam, Political Discourse, Quiz Bowl, Science Olympiad, Spanish Club, Students for Life, Sustainability Club, UPRISE Volunteer Club, Women's Group, Writers Group
Arts and Music Programs: Jazz Band
School Notes
School Motto: Catholic Central: Preparing Servant Leaders For a Christ-Centered Life
School Mascot: Cougars
Catholic Central High School, the oldest co-educational
diocesan Catholic high school in the United States, has been a
proud provider of Catholic education in Grand Rapids, Michigan,
since 1906. In this culturally rich environment, students learn to
embrace and live out the Dominican pillars of prayer, study,
community, and service. At the heart of every lesson is our
unwavering commitment to forming servant leaders.
As an inclusive community rooted in the Catholic faith,
Catholic Central prepares students for a Christ-centered life. We
build every aspect of our mission-education, athletics, and
community-on the foundation of the Gospel. Our leadership remains
dedicated to nurturing a vibrant community of believers who support
students in their pursuit of knowledge and faith. The chapel is
open to all, offering a space for hope, reflection, and
salvation.
Students at Catholic Central are encouraged to discover,
develop, and utilize their God-given talents. With Christ at the
center of all they do, they are both curious and disciplined,
striving to embody the Dominican pillars. Our dedicated faculty and
staff guide students in mastering critical thinking skills,
equipping them for real-world experiences in higher education and
beyond.
We are also proud to be the first and only STEM-certified high
school in Michigan, demonstrating our dedication to academic
excellence and innovation in science, technology, engineering, and
mathematics.
At Catholic Central, we are committed to ensuring that cost is
never a barrier to a transformative Catholic education. Through our
Variable Tuition program, families can apply for a tuition rate
that fits their unique financial situations, making an excellent
Catholic education accessible to more families within our
community. Grand Rapids Catholic Central This program, along with
the generosity of our donors, parish subsidies, and need- and
merit-based scholarships, ensures that every family pays less than
the full cost of educating their child.
Catholic Central High School's tuition is approximately $13,699 for private students.
What schools are Catholic Central High School often compared to?
Catholic Central High School is often viewed alongside schools like West Catholic High School by visitors of our site.
What is the acceptance rate of Catholic Central High School?
The acceptance rate of Catholic Central High School is 98%, which is higher than the national average of 88%.
What sports does Catholic Central High School offer?
Catholic Central High School offers 22 interscholastic sports: Alpine Skiing, Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cheering, Cross Country, Diving, E-sports, Equestrian, Football, Golf, Ice Hockey, Lacrosse, Rugby, Snowboarding, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball and Wrestling. Catholic Central High School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Michigan for most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for Catholic Central High School?
The application deadline for Catholic Central High School is Dec. 1 / rolling (applications are due on Dec. 1 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is Catholic Central High School located?
Catholic Central High School is located in the Downtown neighborhood of Grand Rapids, MI. There are 2 other private schools located in Downtown.
Grades: PK-12 | 644 students1.7 miles 810 Van Raalte SW Wyoming, MI 49509 (616) 241-5202
1.7
PK-12
644
School Reviews
5.00 out of 5(4 reviews)
55/12/2015
I am alumni of Catholic Central High School. This was a high quality school when I graduated back in the early 2000's and I am amazed and proud of where it is today. The programs and course offerings extend to those that are high achieving to those that need learning support. They offer just as many varsity sports as those schools that have three times their population. The fine arts program is award winning and continues to impress. Students have opportunities to grow in their faith with retreats and weekly Liturgy at the Cathedral of St. Andrew.
I have lived in other major cities around the mid-west and Catholic Central High School is amongst the best secondary education you can find.
- Posted by Student/Alumni - mikej
55/12/2015
Catholic Central High School provides all students with the opportunity to challenge themselves academically, spiritually, athletically, and socially in a Christ centered environment. As an alumni, I am proud be a part of the teaching staff.
- Posted by Teacher - Jessi
55/12/2015
The academics at Catholic Central are second to none among high schools in West Michigan. Students are extremely well prepared for college and the next step in their lives. The teachers are very accommodating to all the students and willing to provide all the necessary help for students to have success. The teachers are demanding and push students to achieve great things.
Extracurricular activities are awesome. Athletics and the arts are as plentiful as the local schools with 3000 students. Participation in all of them is higher then any other school around.
Facilities are now in the process of matching every first class experience this school has to offer. The school and athletic facilities are going through major planning for upgrades and will be the best when done.
- Posted by Parent - toddk
55/12/2015
Catholic Central is a great school , we are blessed to have a defined mission and plenty of resources to accomplish that mission. We have kind, caring and hardworking students and parents that are involved in their children's eduction.
- Posted by Teacher - marco
Endorse Catholic Central High School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
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The average private school tuition in Grand Rapids, MI is $8,696 for elementary schools and $10,933 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
