Press Release

The Archdiocese of Cincinnati has been ranked by the National Catholic Educational Association as the sixth largest network of Catholic schools in the United States in terms of total student enrollment. In 2010-2011, the archdiocese was the eighth largest, and rose to seventh during 2011-2012. This school year, the archdiocese serves 44,732 students in preschool through 12th grade.

“The distinction of being the sixth largest reflects the tremendous strength of Catholic education here,” said Dr. Jim Rigg, Superintendent of Catholic Schools and Director of Educational Services for the Archdiocese.  “We are incredibly optimistic about the future.”

Archdiocesan figures include students in 114 Catholic elementary and secondary schools throughout 19 counties in southwestern Ohio.

PK-12 enrollment in 2011-2012 was 44,963. Although overall student enrollment dropped this year, the rate of decline is small and shrinking when compared to prior years, and enrollment elsewhere has declined more. In addition, high school enrollment increased by 63 students this year.

Dr. Rigg partly credits the archdiocese’s “Lighting the Way: A Vision for Catholic Schools” for the move up in the rankings.

“When we released the Vision last August, there was surge of energy, passion, and momentum for our Catholic schools,” he said. “People are now supporting their schools in an even deeper way.”

Other factors have also contributed to the relative stability of enrollment.

“Many of our schools have added preschools and other early education programs,” said Rigg. “This accounts for some 1900 students. In addition, St. Peter Claver Latin School joined the Archdiocese this year, and DePaul Cristo Rey High School added a tenth grade.”