Come for 4 years.. Stay for a Lifetime
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<strong>Come</strong> <strong>for</strong> 4 <strong>years</strong>...<br />
<strong>Stay</strong> <strong>for</strong> a <strong>Lifetime</strong><br />
Matt Felmon<br />
St. Catherine of Alexandria<br />
Attending University of Wisconsin - Madison
Dear Future Ritaman,<br />
Hello! My name is Connor Healy. I was in your shoes just four <strong>years</strong> ago. Be<strong>for</strong>e<br />
graduating from St. Cajetan grammar school, I had to make one of the biggest decisions<br />
of my life. Reflecting on my time here, it’s hard to believe how fast time has gone by and<br />
how much I have grown, thanks to my experiences while at St. Rita. Now as I move on to<br />
college, I know St. Rita has laid the foundation <strong>for</strong> my life as both a student and a more<br />
complete person. Looking back, I know I made the right choice when I selected St. Rita.<br />
One of the best things about St. Rita is everyone’s involvement in activities. All of the<br />
students and teachers are very passionate about the school and want to spend time together<br />
outside of the classroom. During my time here, I was involved in many activities, including<br />
Knights of Augustine, Scholastic Bowl, and Volleyball. The clubs and sports offered at<br />
St. Rita are a great way to become more involved and promote the Augustinian core value<br />
of Unitas.<br />
The school’s academic programs challenged me to work hard every day and strive to<br />
become a better Ritaman. All of the teachers are very knowledgable and truly guide each<br />
and every student to reach their full potential. As an Augustinian school, St. Rita’s classes<br />
are rooted in St. Augustine’s search to find truth and his role in the world. These values are<br />
integrated daily and are at the heart of a St. Rita education.<br />
After the completion of my high school <strong>years</strong>, I was awarded and have accepted a full<br />
academic scholarship to continue my Augustinian education at Villanova University. The<br />
past four <strong>years</strong> have prepared me <strong>for</strong> whatever my future holds. My experience at St. Rita<br />
has left an indelible mark on me, and I will always consider the school a second home.<br />
I encourage each one of you to join the St. Rita brotherhood and grow to love the<br />
community as I have.<br />
Connor Healy<br />
St. Cajetan Grammar School, Class of 2011 • St. Rita Valedictorian, Class of 2015
Dear Prospective Ritaman,<br />
There is a lot to learn be<strong>for</strong>e choosing the right high school, but you<br />
are in the right place because St. Rita has something <strong>for</strong> everyone.<br />
You will be invited to the St. Rita Family from day one, and create<br />
friendships that will last a lifetime, enjoy experiences you will never<br />
<strong>for</strong>get, and receive an education that will prepare you <strong>for</strong> college and life.<br />
When searching <strong>for</strong> a high school, you will realize there are many available. I invite you to look<br />
and see what other schools have to offer. I am confident you will give a second and third look at<br />
St. Rita after visiting our beautiful school. Our students love being Mustangs and simultaneously<br />
contributing to our history, tradition and success.<br />
Please call us anytime at 773.925.RITA or drop an email to me at eleiser@stritahs.com with<br />
any questions you may have. We also encourage you to fill out our in<strong>for</strong>mation <strong>for</strong>m online at<br />
www.stritahs.com.<br />
Finally, I invite you to enjoy a Shadow Day at St. Rita--it's a great way to see all we have to offer.<br />
I hope to meet you soon, and Go Mustangs!<br />
Mr. Ed Leiser '04<br />
Director of Admissions<br />
773.925.RITA<br />
eleiser@stritahs.com<br />
Pictured Left to Right:<br />
John O’Neill ’79,<br />
Director of Institutional<br />
Advancement<br />
Fr. Steve Curry, O.S.A.<br />
Director of Augustinian Mission<br />
Ernie Mrozek ’71<br />
President<br />
Brendan Conroy (HON)<br />
Principal<br />
<strong>Come</strong> join the 110-year-old brotherhood at St. Rita of Cascia High School<br />
where we embody the Augustinian values of Truth, Unity and Love.<br />
”<br />
“Fr. Steve Curry, O.S.A., Ph. D. -Director of Augustinian Mission
St. Rita High School<br />
St. Rita High School is a Catholic college preparatory school <strong>for</strong> young men, rooted in the Gospel of Jesus<br />
and the tradition of St. Augustine, following the Augustinian philosophy of education.<br />
St. Rita aims to <strong>for</strong>m each student as a whole person: spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, physically, and<br />
socially, and to provide its young men with the necessary skills to succeed in college and in life, leading to<br />
life-long learning and personal awareness. Through the Augustinian core values of Veritas (Truth), Unitas<br />
(Unity), and Caritas (Love), St. Rita strives to develop a bond between the members of the entire family:<br />
Augustinians, faculty, staff, students, parents, and alumni.<br />
veritas • unitas • caritas<br />
TRUTH UNITY LOVE<br />
Top photo: The Student Government gathers with members of the Augustinian Order.<br />
Above photo: Students participate in the St. Baldrick's Shave Day <strong>for</strong> charity.<br />
Right Photo: Members of the Class of 2015 gather with Mr. Kieran Kellam ‘98, teacher.
Top Left photo: Seniors enjoying their last few hours<br />
together on graduation day.<br />
Top Right photo: The Spanish Club decorated <strong>for</strong> their<br />
“Day of the Dead” celebration.<br />
Left photo: St. Rita Pride Week<br />
St. Rita Class of 2015 ACT Data<br />
Top 10% of Class of 2015 by GPA: 28 ACT<br />
Top 10% of Class of 2015 by ACT Score: 30 ACT<br />
Top 25% of Class of 2015 by GPA: 26 ACT<br />
Top 50% of Class of 2015 by GPA: 25 ACT<br />
Ethan Gray, Class of 2015, National Award Winner<br />
Ethan Gray is the winner of the National Federation of State High School Associations’<br />
(NFHS) “National High School Heart of the Arts Award.” While Ethan did not read<br />
sheet music when he entered St. Rita as a freshman he now excels in playing 11<br />
musical instruments—while focusing on saxophone, clarinet and guitar—playing in the<br />
pep, jazz and marching bands. He also was involved in the Spanish Club, the Paintball<br />
Club, and the Theatre Program. He is also an accomplished visual artist, lending his<br />
talents to yearbook covers and collaborating with professional comic book artists.<br />
St. Cajetan Parish, Class of 2011 • Columbia College, Class of 2019
iPads In The Classroom<br />
Integration of this tool into<br />
our curriculum offers exciting<br />
opportunities in teaching and<br />
learning, student initiative<br />
and leadership, presentations,<br />
streamlined communication, organization and<br />
innovative assignments and assessments. The iPad<br />
opens up new possibilities <strong>for</strong> teacher creativity<br />
in creating their own ‘text’ books, developing<br />
interactive lessons that provide important feedback<br />
to students, and incorporating the relevant world<br />
seamlessly into the classroom experience.<br />
Teachers and students utilize electronic texts<br />
and/or primary and secondary materials available<br />
on the internet, helping prepare our students <strong>for</strong><br />
college and the working world. In addition,<br />
families should realize a savings on textbook<br />
purchases over the course of two to four <strong>years</strong>.<br />
The iPad is only one tool <strong>for</strong> learning, and it will<br />
never replace the student-teacher relationship<br />
which lies at the heart of a St. Rita education.<br />
The iPad cannot replace hard work and intense<br />
study as a path to success, nor can it motivate<br />
a student all on its own. It is one of<br />
many means by which a student can<br />
achieve success in the classroom.<br />
“At the heart of the St. Rita experience is the relationship<br />
that <strong>for</strong>ms between Ritamen and their teachers.<br />
The iPad will not replace that - but we think it will<br />
enhance the partnership of teachers, parents and<br />
students through smoother communication,<br />
heightened support and increased creativity in<br />
both teaching and learning.”<br />
-Brendan Conroy, Principal
St. Rita of Cascia High School<br />
• Over 600 students enrolled<br />
• Average class size of 25<br />
• Student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1<br />
• Student body represents more than 175 grammar schools<br />
from throughout the greater Chicagoland area.<br />
While not all students who attend St. Rita are Catholic, we strive to<br />
develop each student’s relationship with God and his faith.<br />
St. Rita’s state-of-the-art facilities are spread across a beautiful,<br />
self-contained 31-acre campus.<br />
Students at St. Rita are involved beyond the classroom: 93% of our<br />
students participate in at least one sport or extra-curricular activity,<br />
many in leadership roles.<br />
Why All Boys?<br />
Free from the pressure of worrying about how young women might<br />
perceive them, Ritamen thrive in the all-male environment. Here, they<br />
“have the freedom to explore their individual interests and identities” and<br />
can pursue their goals "with confidence" in their own abilities and “mutual<br />
respect“ <strong>for</strong> their peers.<br />
A Ritaman might be an actor, an athlete, or an altar server--or all three.<br />
The supportive, all-male environment fosters his becoming who he should<br />
be as a student, and lays the foundation <strong>for</strong> who he will be as a man: a<br />
productive member of his community, a man of faith and family.”<br />
-Adapted from "Single Sex Classrooms in the 21st Century,”<br />
by Reese and Corrin<br />
Eric Walker, Class of 2015. Attending the University of Minnesota<br />
“St. Rita has ultimately prepared me <strong>for</strong> the future. It has provided<br />
me with the tools to be successful both academically and athletically.<br />
Being active at St. Rita gave me a great deal of discipline which<br />
played a huge role in completing my goals and committing<br />
to the University of Minnesota. Go Mustangs!”<br />
Morgan Park Academy, Class of 2011 • University of Minnesota, Class of 2019
Faith & Values<br />
In the spirit of St. Augustine, Ritamen since 1905 have been challenged to be restless<br />
in their pursuit of the knowledge of God; and in the spirit of our patroness, St. Rita<br />
of Cascia, to be committed to their faith. We welcome students of all faiths and<br />
challenge them to grow in their knowledge and love of God.<br />
Spiritual Growth<br />
• Theology classes (four <strong>years</strong>)<br />
• Monthly all-school Masses<br />
• Daily Mass and Communion Services<br />
• Daily prayer<br />
• Thursday morning Novena to St. Rita<br />
• Opportunities to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation<br />
• Students are offered the opportunity to receive the<br />
Sacraments of Initiation to the Catholic Church<br />
Service<br />
• Weekly voluntary mission collection to support the<br />
Augustinian Missions in Peru<br />
• Weekly trips to P.A.D.S. Food Shelter<br />
• Summer service trips with Habitat For Humanity<br />
• Knights of Augustinian student faith and service Fraternity.<br />
Retreats<br />
• Annual retreats culminating in Kairos retreat <strong>for</strong> Seniors
St. Rita’s Big Brother Program<br />
“The mission of the Big Brother Program is to build<br />
community, to lead by example and to help all members<br />
of the school community live out our core values.<br />
Currently we have over 60 active Big Brothers<br />
who represent the diversity of our student body<br />
and who act as peer mentors to our freshmen.”<br />
Megan Leider, Ed.D.<br />
Science Department<br />
Moderator of Big Brother Program<br />
The mission of the Office of Student Life and Ministry at St. Rita is to build a strong, healthy,<br />
Christian community based upon ideals of the Gospel and the Order of St. Augustine. We strive to<br />
instill within each Ritaman the Augustinian core values of Truth, Unity and Love. This mission is<br />
fulfilled by helping each young Ritaman recognize and develop his own unique gifts and talents<br />
to their fullest potential and share them with others. The student body is a faith community that<br />
seeks to grow in love of God and neighbor.<br />
Chapel Windows<br />
Completely renovated in 2000, the spectacular St. Rita<br />
Shrine Chapel has just received another upgrade—the<br />
reinstallation of the original stained-glass windows from<br />
1961.<br />
The windows had been removed from the St. Rita Shrine<br />
Chapel when St. Rita High School purchased the Western<br />
Avenue Campus from the Archdiocese in 1995.<br />
Fr. Tom was able to locate the windows--still crated<br />
in storage in the basement of Mundelein Seminary.<br />
Fr. Tom asked the Archdiocese <strong>for</strong> the windows—<br />
and they said yes. The next step in the process was to<br />
raise the $60,000+ to reinstall the original windows.<br />
Remarkably, within a couple weeks, loyal attendees of<br />
the St. Rita Novena pledged the money and the project<br />
was a “go”.
Academics<br />
At St. Rita, we believe all our students will<br />
be capable of achieving college success upon<br />
completion of our rigorous curriculum.<br />
We examine every applicant’s junior high track<br />
record and Entrance Exam scores. In our adaptive<br />
curriculum, a freshman is placed in a unique<br />
combination of Augustinian Academy honors<br />
classes, Mendel Program college prep classes,<br />
and/or Villanova Program classes <strong>for</strong> academic<br />
support that best suits his own strengths and needs.<br />
After freshman year, the student can move into the<br />
academic levels in each subject that meet his<br />
evolving needs, whether Advanced Placement,<br />
honors, college prep or academic support. His<br />
counselor, teachers and administrators help him<br />
and his parents craft the best program <strong>for</strong> him each<br />
year.<br />
• 47% of the Class of 2015 earned academic<br />
scholarships<br />
• The 181 graduates of the Class of 2015 earned<br />
$17.6 million in college scholarships (average<br />
$97,000 per graduate)<br />
• 70% of teaching faculty, counselors and<br />
administrators hold advanced degrees.<br />
Three hold PhDs<br />
• Honors average ACT score (two or more honors<br />
classes): 28<br />
• Overall average ACT score: 22<br />
• 85 National Honor Society members<br />
(47% of class of 2015)<br />
Where Are RitaMen Now<br />
Arizona State University<br />
Austin Peay State University<br />
Ball State University<br />
Butler University<br />
Central Michigan University<br />
Creighton University<br />
Dartmouth College<br />
DePaul University<br />
Eastern Illinois University<br />
Fairleigh Dickinson University<br />
Ferris State University<br />
Grinnell College<br />
Illinois State University<br />
Illinois Wesleyan University<br />
Indiana Purdue Fort Wayne<br />
Indiana State University<br />
Indiana University<br />
Iowa State University<br />
John Carroll University<br />
Johns Hopkins University<br />
Lewis University<br />
Loras College<br />
Loyola University<br />
Marquette University<br />
Miami University (Ohio)<br />
Michigan State University<br />
Mississippi State University<br />
Northern Illinois University<br />
Northern Michigan University<br />
Northwestern University<br />
Pepperdine University<br />
Purdue University<br />
Saint Joseph’s College<br />
Saint Louis University<br />
Saint Xavier University<br />
Seton Hall University<br />
Southern IL. University<br />
Spring Hill College<br />
St. Ambrose University<br />
St. Norbert College<br />
Syracuse University<br />
Texas A&M University<br />
Texas Southern University<br />
Tulane University<br />
University of Alabama<br />
University of Dayton<br />
University of Illinois<br />
University of Iowa<br />
University of Kentucky<br />
University of Michigan<br />
University of Minnesota<br />
University of Mississippi<br />
University of Missouri<br />
University of Nebraska<br />
University of Notre Dame<br />
University of Oklahoma<br />
University of Pennsylvania<br />
University of Pittsburgh<br />
University of Rochester<br />
University of St. Thomas<br />
University of Tampa<br />
University of Tennessee<br />
University of Texas<br />
University of Utah<br />
University of Wisconsin<br />
U.S. Air Force<br />
U.S. Army<br />
U.S. Marine Corps<br />
U.S. Naval Academy<br />
Valparaiso University<br />
Villanova University<br />
West Virginia University<br />
Western Illinois University<br />
Western Michigan University<br />
Yale University<br />
Xavier University<br />
Dan Smith, Class of 2015<br />
“I came to St. Rita as a freshman ready and eager to learn as much as possible<br />
and to have fun. As I now move on to the next stage of my life, I can say without<br />
hesitation that St. Rita provided me the amazing opportunity to develop myself<br />
academically, physically, and spiritually. I hope my time at Purdue will be as fun<br />
and exciting as my four <strong>years</strong> at St. Rita, and I am proud to call myself a Ritaman.”<br />
St. Christina School, Class of 2011 • Purdue University, Class of 2019<br />
Son of Mike, Class of 1989
The Augustinian Academy courses include<br />
15 College Board-approved Advanced Placement (AP) classes in<br />
all subject areas and honors courses in nearly every academic<br />
department. Motivated and qualified students who take advantage<br />
of Augustinian Academy offerings are well-prepared to enter the<br />
nation’s most competitive universities with academic scholarships.<br />
The Mendel Academic Program offers an<br />
appropriately challenging curriculum <strong>for</strong> the college-bound student.<br />
Focused on developing the essential tools <strong>for</strong> success at the college<br />
level, Mendel courses also stretch students to grow in many ways<br />
and inspire them with interesting electives. The Mendel Program<br />
students often take honors and AP courses.<br />
The Villanova Program is rooted in<br />
St. Augustine’s directive, “to each according to his need.” We assess<br />
each student’s individual level of development and assist him to reach<br />
his full potential to prepare him <strong>for</strong> college. Counseling, extended<br />
testing time, tutoring, double-periods of math, learning resource<br />
and reading classes are offered to freshmen and sophomores.<br />
Teacher Spotlight<br />
Mr. Kieran Kellam ‘98:<br />
“Teaching at St. Rita is not my<br />
job. It is my vocation. Through<br />
our Augustinian tradition, our<br />
community fosters the growth<br />
of our young men spiritually,<br />
intellectually and socially.<br />
We build men of character<br />
and we do it in a way that<br />
shows we care.”<br />
Mr. Drew Harweger:<br />
“Diversity of peoples and<br />
cultures is not only why I am<br />
passionate about history, but<br />
also why I teach at St. Rita.<br />
Like a painter to his canvass,<br />
heterogeneity enables one to<br />
experience a more vibrant<br />
world.”<br />
AP Courses<br />
Biology<br />
Calculus<br />
Chemistry<br />
English - Language & Composition<br />
English - Literature & Composition<br />
European History<br />
French<br />
Human Geography<br />
Music Theory<br />
Psychology<br />
Spanish<br />
Studio Art<br />
US Government & Politics<br />
US History<br />
World History<br />
Honors Courses<br />
Band<br />
English<br />
Latin<br />
Mathematics<br />
Science<br />
Social Studies<br />
Spanish<br />
Technology<br />
Theology<br />
Faculty Stats<br />
St. Rita supports teachers who<br />
want to learn, grow and develop<br />
in their chosen fields. 70%<br />
of the faculty hold advanced<br />
degrees, including three<br />
Doctorates and two PhD<br />
candidates. St. Rita teachers<br />
are often students in their own<br />
right: there are always teachers<br />
on staff who are seeking an<br />
advanced degree while teaching<br />
at St. Rita. Faculty hold<br />
degrees from Illinois,<br />
Marquette, University of<br />
Chicago, Notre Dame, St.<br />
Xavier, Michigan State, Loyola,<br />
Northwestern, DePaul, Stan<strong>for</strong>d,<br />
Vilanova and many other<br />
colleges and universities.
Athletics<br />
St. Rita High School has a rich tradition of athletic<br />
excellence <strong>for</strong>ged by determination, hard work, and<br />
character. Students are encouraged to participate in a<br />
variety of sports and to develop their talents. Ritamen<br />
are true scholar-athletes: high expectations in the<br />
classroom carry over to athletics. Participation in<br />
St. Rita’s storied athletic program teaches students<br />
discipline, teamwork, dedication, sportsmanship<br />
and hustle. St. Rita offers 16 interscholastic sports,<br />
most of which have three playing levels.<br />
The St. Rita athletic department is focused on a<br />
balanced development of our young student<br />
athletes. We always keep in mind that our<br />
athletes will spend more time on this earth as<br />
members of society than as athletes. There<strong>for</strong>e<br />
our primary focus will always be about<br />
creating an environment that fosters structure,<br />
care and discipline. We believe winning will be<br />
a by-product of that environment but the true<br />
winners will be our student athletes as they go<br />
on to make a difference in their families, friendships,<br />
jobs and members of society.<br />
-Mike Zunica, St. Rita Athletic Director<br />
Fall Sports<br />
Cross Country<br />
Football<br />
Golf<br />
Soccer<br />
Spring Sports<br />
Baseball<br />
Lacrosse<br />
Rugby<br />
Tennis<br />
Winter Sports<br />
Basketball<br />
Bowling<br />
Hockey<br />
Swimming<br />
Wrestling<br />
Track and Field<br />
Volleyball<br />
Water Polo<br />
University OF Kentucky-bound Charles Matthews ‘15<br />
St. Rita’s Catholic League Award Winners<br />
In the last two <strong>years</strong>, the Chicago Catholic League honored the following seniors <strong>for</strong> being selected as Lawless<br />
Award Winners--the highest honor a player can earn in their particular sport. The Ritamen given this award<br />
were: Jake Shepski (2014, baseball), Dominique Matthews (2014, basketball), Joe Lopez (2014, lacrosse),<br />
Nick Goldsmith (2014, soccer), Treston Forbes (2014, track and field), Charles Matthews (2015, basketball),<br />
and Marty Bechina (2015, baseball).<br />
Additionally, Tommy Mister (football) was named 2014 Catholic League Offensive MVP, Eric Walker (track<br />
and field) placed 8th overall at the 2015 IHSA State Meet in High Hurdles, and Austin O'Connor<br />
(wrestling) won 2014 and 2015 IHSA Individual Wrestling Titles.
Marty Bechina, Michigan State University<br />
“The night be<strong>for</strong>e the high school entrance exam, I was still not<br />
sure where I wanted to go to school. Finally, late that night I<br />
made the decision to attend St. Rita. After my four <strong>years</strong> here,<br />
it was the best decision I ever made. St. Rita just felt like home<br />
to me and presented me the entire package: rigorous academics<br />
and athletics with a strong faith-based experience. Through<br />
hard work, dedication and the support of my teachers, coaches<br />
and academic advisors, I was able to achieve high academic and<br />
athletic honors (4.68 GPA -6th in my graduating class, football<br />
team captain and Tony Lawless Award recipient <strong>for</strong> baseball)<br />
while making lifelong friendships. My St. Rita experience<br />
has prepared me well <strong>for</strong> the next journey of my life as a<br />
student-athlete at Michigan State University in the Big Ten<br />
Conference.”<br />
- Marty Bechina, St. John Fisher school, Class of 2011 St. Rita High School, Class of 2015<br />
Current St. Rita alumni involved in major Division I athletics.<br />
Victor Law<br />
St. Rita Class of 2014<br />
Basketball<br />
Northwestern University<br />
Jake Shepski<br />
St. Rita Class of 2014<br />
Baseball<br />
University of Notre Dame<br />
Will McNamara<br />
St. Rita Class of 2012<br />
Football<br />
Dartmouth College<br />
Lawless Award-winning coaches<br />
In the last two <strong>years</strong>, St. Rita has had four Tony Lawless<br />
Coach of the Year Award winners: Todd Kuska ‘90<br />
(football), Jim Juchcinski ’97 (lacrosse), Gary DeCesare<br />
(basketball ), and Mike Zunica (baseball).<br />
GO MUSTANGS<br />
Tommy Mister ‘14 (football, Indiana)<br />
Nick Goldsmith ’14 (football, Pittsburgh)<br />
Michael Zunica ‘12 (football, Kansas)<br />
Kenny Golladay ’12 (football, Northern Illinois)<br />
Max Kurucar ‘12 (football, Penn)<br />
Dominique Matthews ’14 (basketball, UIC)<br />
A.J. Avery ‘12 (basketball, Western Michigan)<br />
Tony Hicks ‘12 (basketball, Penn)<br />
Nate Soria ‘14 (baseball, Xavier)<br />
Mike Costanzo ‘14 (baseball, Austin Peay)<br />
Eddie De La Riva ‘12 (baseball, Purdue)<br />
Zach Soria ‘12 (baseball, Florida International)
Student Life<br />
Fr. Tom McCarthy, O.S.A. ‘83, often tells freshmen, “You come to St. Rita <strong>for</strong> four <strong>years</strong>, but you stay <strong>for</strong> a<br />
lifetime.” From the first days of freshman year, the St. Rita student learns what it means to be a Ritaman.<br />
Then, he spends the rest of his life living in the brotherhood of Ritamen.<br />
This does not happen by accident. The true Ritaman embraces the Core Values of Truth, Unity and Love by<br />
immersing himself in study and service, faith and fun. Ritamen do this in numerous ways: as Junior Board<br />
members of the Ronald McDonald House, PADS volunteers, Big Brothers helping to foster a positive and<br />
fun school culture <strong>for</strong> freshmen, members of a team or club, or even International Exchange Program<br />
participants. They lead by example, with the Core Values as their guide.<br />
“Involvement is essential in the life of<br />
every Ritaman. Our clubs and activities<br />
provide the ability to learn and strengthen<br />
talents and leadership, all while building<br />
lifelong friendships. The end of a school<br />
day only marks the start <strong>for</strong> the rest of<br />
a Ritaman’s daily experience.”<br />
- Josh Blaszak, ‘02 (right),<br />
Director of Student Life & Ministry
Clubs<br />
Band<br />
Broadcasting Club<br />
Chess Club<br />
Computer Programing class<br />
Cooking Club<br />
Creative Arts Society<br />
Debate Team<br />
Exchange Program<br />
Fantasy Sports League<br />
Flag Football<br />
French Club<br />
Games Club<br />
Natir - Satirical newspaper<br />
National Honor Society<br />
Outdoors Club<br />
Rock & Roll Club<br />
Role Playing Guild<br />
SADD<br />
Scholastic Bowl<br />
Seinfeld Club<br />
Spanish Club<br />
Stock Club<br />
Theater<br />
T-shirts Club<br />
Ultimate Frisbee<br />
Yearbook, “The Cascian”
Investing in your future<br />
• Constructed The McCarthy Center <strong>for</strong> Ritamen<br />
• Trans<strong>for</strong>med the library into the Van Leuven Family Research Center<br />
• Completed renovation of the Chemistry, Physics and Biology labs<br />
• Updated technology in every classroom<br />
• Resurfaced Pat Cronin Field at Doyle Stadium<br />
St. Rita<br />
Science Labs<br />
The Science labs have<br />
been updated in the<br />
last five <strong>years</strong>.<br />
• allows <strong>for</strong> better<br />
organization <strong>for</strong><br />
teachers and students<br />
• each station has its<br />
own outlets and sinks<br />
• new lab equipment<br />
St. Rita<br />
Gymnasium<br />
One of the largest gyms<br />
in the Catholic League.<br />
• 1500-seat capacity<br />
• Newly refinished and<br />
repainted hardwood floor<br />
• New Scoreboard<br />
The Van Leuven Family<br />
Research Center<br />
The Van Leuven Family Research Center opened in<br />
November 2013, offering a com<strong>for</strong>table, inviting,<br />
21st century research and study center <strong>for</strong> Ritamen and<br />
their teachers. The Van Leuven Family Research Center<br />
contains the following equipment and amenities <strong>for</strong><br />
our Ritamen and teachers:<br />
• Two iPad carts, containing 36 Apple iPads<br />
• 45 computers (12 Apple iMacs and 33 PCs)<br />
• Group project rooms<br />
• Wireless connection to the 60-inch projection screens
Doyle Stadium<br />
Eleven <strong>years</strong> ago, St. Rita was the first<br />
Chicago-area school – public or private<br />
– to install an on-campus synthetic<br />
sports field. St. Rita is proud to<br />
announce that in July, 2014, the surface<br />
of Pat Cronin Field at Doyle Stadium<br />
was upgraded with a new artificial<br />
surface, using state-of-the-art<br />
GameDay Grass 3D technology.<br />
Widely considered the best available<br />
anywhere.<br />
St. Rita Pool<br />
Our on-campus pool has<br />
been renovated and updated<br />
in the last year to ensure our<br />
students and athletes can<br />
take full advantage of our<br />
swimming and water polo<br />
programs and physical<br />
education classes<br />
McCarthy Center<br />
Opened in the spring of 2012, the McCarthy<br />
Center is a hive of activity after school.<br />
Students can grab a bite to eat, knock off<br />
some homework, play a spirited game of<br />
ping-pong, watch TV or just catch up with<br />
their buddies while waiting <strong>for</strong> a ride or<br />
athletic practice to begin. They never have<br />
to leave the campus to get what they need<br />
or want.<br />
• equipped with televisions, pool tables,<br />
ping-pong, and foosball tables in<br />
com<strong>for</strong>table seating areas.<br />
• food from Millie's Cafe<br />
• outdoor patio
Admissions & Financial Aid<br />
Tuition <strong>for</strong> the 2015-2016 school year is $10,800. There is an annual, non-refundable registration fee of $400<br />
and an activity fee of $150. Unlike other schools, there are no additional charges <strong>for</strong> mandatory fundraising.<br />
Under IHSA rules, St. Rita does not offer athletic scholarships. Over 70% of St. Rita students receive some<br />
sort of demonstrated, need based financial assistance.<br />
Academic scholarships <strong>for</strong> freshmen are awarded based on<br />
per<strong>for</strong>mance on the St. Rita High School Entrance Exam.<br />
Students whose scores fall within the following percentiles<br />
will be awarded accordingly. Scholarship renewal amounts<br />
are based on the student's GPA. In an ef<strong>for</strong>t to award<br />
academic achievement based on student per<strong>for</strong>mance,<br />
scholarships are awarded to sophomores, juniors and<br />
seniors based solely on GPA.<br />
National Percentile<br />
Scholarship Amount<br />
99+ $2,500<br />
95-98 $2,000<br />
90-94 $1,500<br />
85-89 $1,250<br />
80-84 $1,000<br />
Brother Scholarship<br />
Families with two brothers enrolled at St. Rita at the same time will receive a $2,500 tuition scholarship<br />
each year. Families with three sons will receive a $6,000 tuition scholarship each year.<br />
Legacy Scholarship<br />
Students who have a father, grandfather, or great-grandfather who graduated from St. Rita, Quigley South<br />
or Mendel Catholic High School are awarded a $1,500 Legacy Scholarship <strong>for</strong> their first year. To qualify,<br />
students must submit a one-page essay on “What St. Rita means to me.”<br />
Sister Scholarship<br />
Freshmen who have a sister who concurrently attends any<br />
Catholic high school are awarded a $500 scholarship <strong>for</strong> their<br />
freshman year.<br />
Shadow students meet New England Patriot<br />
& University of Notre Dame graduate Darius Fleming<br />
(St. Rita Class of 2008) at a school pep rally.<br />
Shadow Day In<strong>for</strong>mation<br />
Who? All 6th, 7th and 8th grade boys interested in attending St. Rita.<br />
What? Join a current Ritaman during the school day to see what it's like. Lunch is provided to each shadow.<br />
Please dress in your grade school or St. Rita attire. Students can sign up online at: www.stritahs.com/admissions<br />
or call (773) 925-6600 ext. 6616 to speak to Asst. Director of Admissions, Mr. Sean Estand '07.<br />
When? Students can shadow on any day that St. Rita has a full day of school. Please arrive at St. Rita at<br />
approximately 7:45 am and be picked up at 2:20 pm.<br />
Where? Please enter through the Main Office doors that face Western Avenue and report to the<br />
Admissions Office.
Transportation<br />
St. Rita High School is committed to<br />
providing students with the most efficient,<br />
af<strong>for</strong>dable, and safest transportation<br />
possible. Our privately owned shuttle buses<br />
allow students to have a quicker, more convenient commute at a lower cost.<br />
All bus routes have morning, after school and after activities availability.<br />
Routes are redrawn every year based upon ridership.<br />
Near North Lake Shore Drive<br />
Stops beginning in Wrigleyville and Lakeview, continuing south on Lake Shore Drive to Hyde Park,<br />
Bronzeville, and Blue Island.<br />
Bridgeport/ South Loop<br />
Stops beginning in Little Village and Pilsen, continuing throughout the Bridgeport and Canaryville<br />
areas.<br />
Garfield Ridge/LaGrange<br />
Stops begin in LaGrange and head east throughout Garfield Ridge, Archer Avenue and 55th Street.<br />
Cicero/Berwyn/Riverside<br />
Stops in Riverside, and continues through Berwyn, Cicero, Archer Heights and West Lawn.<br />
Southeast Chicago & Northwest Indiana<br />
Stops beginning in Northwest Indiana, continuing through Lansing, Steger, Chicago Heights,<br />
and Matteson.<br />
South Suburban<br />
Stops beginning in Crestwood, continuing to 103rd Street through Oak Lawn, Evergreen Park,<br />
Mt. Greenwood & Beverly<br />
Shuttle Services from Metra Lines<br />
SouthWest Service Line (SWS)<br />
New Lenox, Orland Park, Palos, Frank<strong>for</strong>t, Mokena, Homer Glen, Worth, Chicago Ridge, and<br />
Oak Lawn are a short train ride to the Wrightwood Metra Station where the St. Rita shuttle runs.
SAVE THE DATE!<br />
MATH COMPETITION<br />
Tuesday, September 15, 2015<br />
4:00 p.m.<br />
BASEBALL CLINIC<br />
Saturday, September 19, 2015<br />
12:00 - 2:00 p.m.<br />
SOCCER CLINIC<br />
Monday, September 21, 2015<br />
7 p.m. - 8:30p.m.<br />
HONORS INFORMATION NIGHT<br />
Wednesday, October 7, 2015<br />
7:30 p.m.<br />
COLUMBUS SHADOW DAY #1<br />
(6th, 7th & 8th grades)<br />
Friday, October 9, 2015<br />
7:30 a.m - 2:22 p.m.<br />
COLUMBUS SHADOW DAY #2<br />
(6th, 7th & 8th grades)<br />
Monday, October 12, 2015<br />
8:30 a.m. - 2:22 p.m.<br />
PROSPECTIVE PARENTS SHADOW DAY<br />
Thursday, October 22, 2015<br />
9:00 - 11:30 a.m.<br />
OPEN HOUSE<br />
Sunday, November 1, 2015<br />
12:00 - 3:00 p.m.<br />
VOLLEYBALL CLINIC<br />
Saturday, November 7, 2015<br />
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.<br />
IT'S ACADEMIC!<br />
Team-based competition (all boys) that tests students'<br />
knowledge in a variety of subject.<br />
Tuesday, November 17, 2015<br />
4:00 p.m.<br />
DISCOVER ST. RITA, EVENING<br />
OPEN HOUSE<br />
Wednesday, December 2, 2015<br />
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.<br />
NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS<br />
A fun-filled evening of athletic games and competitions.<br />
Prizes awarded to the top competitors.<br />
Thursday, December 10, 2015<br />
5:00 - 7:30 p.m.<br />
OPEN GYM<br />
Monday, December 28, 2015<br />
10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.<br />
8TH GRADE ENTRANCE EXAM<br />
Saturday, January 9, 2016<br />
8:00 a.m.<br />
PRESIDENTS’ DAY SHADOW DAY<br />
(6th & 7th grades)<br />
Monday, February 15, 2016<br />
8:30 a.m. - 2:22 p.m.<br />
St. Rita High School<br />
St. Rita of Cascia High School<br />
7740 Western Avenue • Chicago, Illinois 60620<br />
P: 773-925-6600 • F: 773-925-2451 • www.stritahs.com<br />
@StRitaHS