How Our Schools Deliver on Our Promise

Choosing a school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. You want to know your child will be challenged academically, supported as a whole person, and guided in their faith. That’s where accreditation comes in.

All Diocese of Joliet Catholic elementary schools—and two diocesan high schools—are accredited by the Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA). That means each school has been carefully evaluated and proven to meet high standards for both education quality and Catholic identity.

Why This Matters for Your Child

WCEA accreditation isn’t just a label—it’s a promise that your child’s school is:

• Strong in faith formation – Your child is growing in a real relationship with Jesus, not just learning about religion.
• Committed to academic excellence – Schools are held to clear, measurable standards for teaching and learning.
• Focused on the whole child – Intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and physical development all matter.
• Stable and well-run – Leadership, finances, and long-term planning are evaluated to ensure the school will thrive. • Always improving – Schools don’t stand still—they continually look for ways to get better.

How Schools Earn Accreditation

Accreditation is a rigorous process that happens on a regular cycle. Each school:

• Takes a deep, honest look at how it’s doing
• Gathers input from parents, students, and staff
• Identifies strengths and areas to grow
• Creates a clear educational improvement plan
• Hosts an independent team of educators who verify everything and recommend accreditation

In short, schools must prove they’re delivering on their mission—not just say they are.

A Standard You Can Trust

The WCEA is the oldest and largest Catholic accrediting organization in the country, serving more than 1,000 schools across multiple arch/dioceses and states.

Even more importantly, WCEA accreditation aligns with both:

• National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools (Mission and Catholic Identity, Governance and Leadership, Academic Excellence, and Operational Vitality)
• Illinois State Board of Education recognition

That means your child’s education is held to both spiritual and academic excellence.

A Partnership with Parents

At Diocese of Joliet Catholic schools, accreditation supports our partnership with you. Together, we are forming students who are:

• Academically prepared
• Grounded in faith
• Ready to serve others 
• Equipped for success in life—and for eternity