DeSales Catholic School is the only Catholic school in Eastern Niagara County and serves families from 9 local Districts.
DeSales offers a safe, faith-based environment that fosters the intellectual, spiritual, emotional, social and physical development of each student from Early Childhood (age 3) through 8th grade. DeSales students continue to outperform their public school peers on national and NY State standardized tests.
DeSales offers art, music, and Spanish classes for grades K-8.
Students with special needs receive physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy services at DeSales provided by the Lockport City School District. DeSales Catholic School...The start of something great!.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked NY School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 373 students
- Yearly Tuition: $6,300
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Average class size: 18 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Desales Catholic School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1970
School Calendar
First Day of School
Mon. Sep 1, 2025
School Motto
Jesus Christ is the reason for this school
Student Body
Total Students
373 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
6%
State avg.: 40%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
26 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
14:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
18 students
Number of AP Courses
1 course
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
Algebra - Gr 8, Living Environment - Gr 8
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
School uniform for Kindergarten through Grade 8
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Registered Catholics receive discount with church approval; additional need-based aid is available to families of all faiths
Acceptance Rate
90%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Kim Knuutila
Sports
Total Sports Offered
8 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
11 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Annual Broadway-style Musical, Instrumental Music Lessons, Middle School Chorus, National Junior Honor Society, Student Community Service, Student Senate
Club or Organization:
Coding Club, Destination Imagination, Robotics Club, STREAM Clubs
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Girls Running Club
Club or Organization:
Coding Club, Destination Imagination, Robotics Club, STREAM Clubs
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Girls Running Club
School Notes
- Tuition Assistance Available
- Transportation Available
- WiFi Networked building with Smart Boards, iPads and Laptops for students
- Before and Afterschool Childcare available
- Full and Half Day Preschool classes for 3 and 4 year olds
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Desales Catholic School cost?
Desales Catholic School's tuition is approximately $6,300 for private students.
What schools are Desales Catholic School often compared to?
Desales Catholic School is often viewed alongside schools like Learn and Play PreK by visitors of our site.
What is the acceptance rate of Desales Catholic School?
The acceptance rate of Desales Catholic School is 90%, which is higher than the national average of 74%.
What sports does Desales Catholic School offer?
Desales Catholic School offers 8 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Dance, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Track and Field and Volleyball.
What is Desales Catholic School's ranking?
Desales Catholic School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for: Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for Desales Catholic School?
The application deadline for Desales Catholic School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
Endorse Desales Catholic School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

Podcasts That Will Change the Way You Think About Education
This article highlights a curated selection of podcasts that offer thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and innovative ideas on various aspects of education. From exploring new teaching methods and technologies to discussing policy changes and social issues, these podcasts provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone interested in education. Each podcast is briefly described, highlighting its unique focus and tone.

For-profit vs. Not-for-profit Schools
This comprehensive guide explores the differences between for-profit and not-for-profit private schools, discussing their organizational structures, advantages, and key considerations for parents. It emphasizes that a school's success is determined by its educational quality and management rather than its profit status.

2023-24 Best SSAT Prep Courses Reviewed
This article reviews the top SSAT prep courses, including Test Innovators, Enrollment Management Association (EMA), Princeton Review, Ivy Global, and Kaplan. Each course is evaluated based on its price, in-person and online services, officially licensed materials, instant normative scoring, and free trial options. We'll dive into the features and benefits of each course, helping you understand which one best fits your student's needs and learning style.