CHICAGO, IL (July 1, 2008) – It was announced today by Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P., the new superintendent of Catholic schools for the Archdiocese of Chicago, that for the first time in 42 years, the total number of Catholic schools in Cook and Lake counties is set to increase for the upcoming school year. All 217 elementary schools and 39 high schools will remain open for the 2008-2009 school year, with an additional high school, Christ the King Jesuit College Preparatory School, set to open in August 2008.

“For the future of our Catholic faith here in the Archdiocese of Chicago, we are committed to providing excellent centers of learning for the nearly 100,000 students that attend our schools,” remarked Francis Cardinal George, O.M.I., Archbishop of Chicago.

In addition to support provided at the local school level, the Archdiocese will provide $7.9 million in operating grants to schools. The Big Shoulders Fund (www.bigshouldersfund.org) will also provide nearly $12 million of assistance to the Catholic schools in the most needy areas of inner city Chicago this year.

“While significant challenges still remain for the system, particularly in terms of finances, Catholic school education is becoming better positioned for the future. The concerted efforts of pastors, administrators, donors, partners, and especially parents are contributing to the renewed stability we are seeing in the system,” remarked Sr. McCaughey.

The new high school, Christ the King Jesuit College Preparatory School, will use the Cristo Rey model to serve young men and women from the Austin neighborhood and surrounding communities of Chicago’s west side. It will be temporarily located on the property of St. Martin de Porres Parish at 116 N. LeClaire Avenue before moving to its permanent location at 5058 W. Jackson Blvd. Christ the King is now accepting students for its first freshman class.