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Catholic Schools
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Catholic schools in the Diocese of Portland form a supportive and faith-filled network dedicated to helping children grow academically, spiritually, and personally. Catholic schools in the Diocese of Portland include seven parish pre-k to grade 8 schools, one diocesan pre-k to 8 school, and two independent Catholic schools: Mount Merici Academy, which serves pre-k to 8 in Waterville, and Cheverus High School in Portland.
Parish and diocesan schools are vibrant and faith-filled learning communities that serve more than 1,700 students. Our dedicated faculty and staff are committed to helping young people flourish in school and in life, nurturing their academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth.
In our schools, every child is welcomed and encouraged to discover the gifts God has given them. Catholic education is holistic, nurturing the intellectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual growth of youth. Students learn to think creatively and critically, love learning, and serve with confidence in the Church and the wider community.
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Mission StatementThe mission of Maine Catholic Schools is to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ, form students in faith and virtue, and educate the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—so they may discover what is true, good, and beautiful through prayer, sacraments, and learning.
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Catholic IdentityCatholic schools are called to cultivate a vibrant faith community where:
- Religious instruction is rooted in Scripture, Church teaching, and the sacramental life of the parish.
- Gospel values shape the entire school culture, guiding decision-making, relationships, and daily life.
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Educational ExcellenceOur Catholic schools work to provide strong academic programs that help students thrive. They strive to:
- Offer a well-rounded curriculum grounded in educational excellence.
- Regularly review and update programs to prepare students for future education, meaningful work, and responsible citizenship.
- Provide high-quality learning resources.
- Enrich student experience with extracurriculars such as fine arts, music, athletics, and clubs.
- Respond to family needs by offering preschool, before- and after-school care, and parent education when possible.
- Encourage religious vocations and student and graduate involvement in parish life.
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Faculty and StaffThe adults who serve in Catholic schools model the mission of the Church and help students grow in faith. Catholic schools aim to:
- Employ faculty and staff who share the vision of Catholic education and support the spiritual development of students.
- Ensure teachers are professionally competent, and committed to excellence.
- Support ongoing spiritual and professional growth through regular evaluation and formation.
- Provide just and fair compensation consistent with the Church’s teaching on social justice.
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LeadershipStrong leadership ensures that Catholic schools remain engaging and mission-driven. This leadership structure includes:
- Clergy who support and uphold educational excellence.
- Qualified administrators, faith-filled leaders with a clear vision.
- Active and supportive school boards, parent groups, and alumni associations.
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Parish and School PartnershipCatholic schools are an essential part of parish life and the Church’s mission. This partnership flourishes when:
- Parishes actively support and advocate for Catholic school education.
- School families and faculty contribute to parish and community service.
- Schools collaborate with parish faith formation programs and community organizations.
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ResourcesCatholic schools rely on shared stewardship to thrive. The vision calls for:
- Growing alumni support and development efforts to meet financial needs.
- Adequate parish and diocesan support to sustain high-quality programs.
- Tuition levels that allow for strong academic and faith formation programs.
- Robust tuition assistance to help families who need support.
- Volunteers who generously share their gifts in support of Catholic education.
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Diocesan SupportThe Diocese of Portland remains committed to sustaining and strengthening Catholic school ministry across Maine. The Mother Cabrini Maine Catholic Education Initiative is one such example.
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