Pacelli Catholic Schools Board of Trustees announced last spring their approval of  building unification starting in the 2018-2019 school year. All academic learning for Kindergarten through grade 12 has been moved into the former Pacelli High School building.  After a summer filled with a magnificent number  of volunteer hours given by parents, students, staff, alumni and friends, everything has been moved, cleaned, and refurbished to welcome students to the start of an exciting new school year in one building.

“Our building unification will continue to foster our close knit family atmosphere and provide more opportunities for student to student mentorships,” states Laura Marreel, Dean of Students.

Building unification provides many advantages, including more opportunities for flexibility in academic planning, department collaboration, and cohesion. In addition to the rigorous AP class schedule presently offered through Pacelli, online AP courses with Lourdes and Loyola Catholic High Schools, and PACC (Program for Advanced College Credit) classes through St. Mary’s University are available.  Elementary students have regular access to science lab experiences. This unification changes the focus of resources from building maintenance to educational advancement.

“Placing students into one building can eliminate achievement loss during the transitional years,” said Marsha Stenzel, Diocese of Winona-Rochester Superintendent of Catholic Schools. “Interaction between age groups, and the positive influence of older students on younger students, strengthens the school as a community – a community of faith. This is an opportunity for our young people to see and understand the role of faith in each other’s daily life from Kindergarten through grade 12.”

Pacelli also announced limiting the number of class sections.  Once a class is filled a waiting list will be established.  Jean McDermott, PreK-12 Principal explained, “We believe limiting our class sizes and deliberately choosing to be small allows us to provide low student to teacher ratios, a rigorous Catholic curriculum, and preparedness for college. In addition it allows ample opportunities for every student to participate in athletics, science, fine arts, leadership and service opportunities.  By choosing to be small we are able to provide a comprehensive experience for our students.”  She added, “This is an exciting time for us to come together as a school community. I am grateful to all who helped make unification a reality. Our Pacelli family is truly blessed.”