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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

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