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Catholic and Independent

“We chose Sacred Heart because of the School’s reputation for academic rigor coupled with a values-based education. We are happy that our children are not only challenged to grow intellectually, but ethically and spiritually, as well.”
-- Tim O’Neil, parent

Sacred Heart is unique among Chicago schools in that we are both a Catholic and an independent school.

As an independent school, Sacred Heart is committed to academic excellence within an environment where each child is known and valued as an individual.  We are one of 15 schools in Chicago and about 200 in the Midwest who are members of the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS), assuring we meet rigorous accreditation standards and adhere to Principles of Good Practice articulated by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS).  We require and support on-going professional development for our faculty and have a well-defined process for reviewing and renewing our curriculum. We believe in the benefit of small classes and low student to teacher ratios.

As a Catholic school, we encourage our students’ growth in faith, spirituality and ethical decision-making.  In our community service program, students are challenged to live lives that include a genuine commitment to meeting the needs of others.  Children participate in religious education, chapel and liturgical services.  Sacramental preparation for First Holy Communion, First Reconciliation and Confirmation is provided for Catholic families. While we are not affiliated with a parish and are completely self-governing, we enjoy a cordial and mutually beneficial relationship with the Chicago Archdiocese.

Even as we are strongly rooted in the Catholic tradition, we warmly welcome children of all faiths.  In fact, 40% of our students come from families who are not Catholic and who represent a wide variety of religious backgrounds, both Christian and non-Christian.  We work to build a true sense of community and to foster inter-religious acceptance and dialogue by educating our students to an understanding of and deep respect for the many religious traditions of the world.

Sacred Heart Schools
Academy of the Sacred Heart for Girls
Hardey Preparatory for Boys
The best of both worlds

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