FAQ

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Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our FAQ page! Here, we've gathered answers to some of the most common questions about St. Patrick's Academy, our unique 4+1 academic program, admissions, and campus life. If you don't find what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us directly!
What is St. Patrick's Academy?
We are the new unified Catholic school in Great Falls, bringing together the legacies of Our Lady of Lourdes, Great Falls Central, and Holy Spirit schools. We offer a comprehensive Catholic education from Pre-K through 12th Grade.
Who is behind the idea to join the schools?
We understand there are questions about the vision and leadership behind the unification of our three beloved schools. This exciting new chapter for St. Patrick's Academy is the result of collaborative leadership and extensive input from across our entire Catholic community.
The driving force behind this initiative includes:
Bishop Jeff, Father Al, and Father Doug. Our spiritual and pastoral leaders who have provided guidance and vision for strengthening Catholic education in Great Falls.
The Academy Advisory Board: Comprised of dedicated stakeholders representing all three campuses and the broader Great Falls Catholic Community. Their diverse perspectives and commitment are invaluable.
Campus Administrators: The leadership teams from each campus are actively involved in shaping the future of St. Patrick's Academy, ensuring a seamless transition and a vibrant learning environment for all students.
What are your core values?
Our school is built on faith, academic excellence, a vibrant community, and a commitment to service and respect.
How does the unification benefit students?
The unification of St. Patrick's Academy offers several key benefits for students:
Streamlined Resources: By bringing together the legacies of Our Lady of Lourdes, Great Falls Central, and Holy Spirit schools, the academy can optimize resources, potentially leading to better facilities, technology, and learning materials.
Enhanced Academic Programs: Unification allows for the development of more comprehensive and enriched academic programs across all grade levels.
Cohesive Educational Journey: Students benefit from a seamless, faith-filled educational journey from their early years (Pre-K) all the way through high school graduation. This provides consistency and a unified vision for their development.
What is the St. Patrick's Academy weekly schedule?
St. Patrick's Academy embraces an innovative and purposeful weekly schedule designed to optimize learning, enhance student well-being, and provide unique enrichment opportunities.
We operate on a 4-day academic week in the classroom, with a dedicated 5th day for enrichment activities and personalized learning.
How do I apply?
Complete an Inquiry Form
The very first step is to tell us a little bit about your family and your interest in St. Patrick's Academy. This helps us understand your needs and guide you through the process.
Step 1: Submit Your Inquiry Form
Step 2: Receive Your Invitation to Apply
Once we receive your inquiry, our Admissions Team will review it and promptly send you a personalized invitation to formally apply. This invitation will include all the necessary forms and detailed instructions for the application process.
Please note: The full application form is provided directly to families after the inquiry stage; it is not available on our website.
Can we visit the school?
Absolutely! We warmly invite prospective students and their families to experience the vibrant community and welcoming environment of St. Patrick's Academy firsthand.
Here's how you can arrange a visit:
After Your Inquiry: Once you complete our Inquiry Form, our Admissions Team will reach out to you directly to discuss your interests and to help you schedule a personalized tour of the campus you'd like to visit.
Direct Campus Contact: Prefer to call? You are also welcome to contact the specific campus you wish to tour directly by phone, and our team there will be happy to assist you in setting up a visit.
- East Campus: (406) 761-5775
- West Campus: (406) 452-0551
- High School: (406) 216-3344
We look forward to welcoming you!
What are the tuition costs and financial aid options?
St. Patrick's Academy is a need-based tuition school, committed to making a world-class Catholic education accessible to all families. Tuition is determined by each family's demonstrated financial need, and multi-student discounts are available. Need-based financial aid is also available across all grade levels (Pre-K through 12th Grade).
What is your academic approach?
St. Patrick's Academy embraces a classical Catholic education model, which is deeply rooted in fostering wisdom, virtue, and a love for truth, beauty, and goodness.
This approach typically emphasizes a robust liberal arts curriculum, critical thinking, and a comprehensive understanding of Western civilization, integrating faith and reason across all subjects.
Complementing this classical foundation, St. Patrick's Academy utilizes its unique 4+1 academic program.
What extracurriculars are available?
St. Patrick's Academy offers a variety of engaging extracurricular and enrichment opportunities, primarily through our unique 4+1 academic program. These include diverse activities like sports, art programs, STEM/STEAM initiatives, and various clubs and specialized experiences for our high school students.
How is faith integrated into the school day?
Faith is central to the daily experience at St. Patrick's Academy. As a classical Catholic school, we integrate our faith into all aspects of learning and daily life, fostering an environment where students can grow spiritually alongside their academic development. This includes opportunities such as regular Mass participation on Fridays for elementary students, and the weaving of Catholic values and teachings throughout the curriculum.
Where will classes be held for different grades?
As a unified academy, St. Patrick's Academy holds classes across three distinct campuses based on grade level:
- East Campus: Houses specific Pre-School/Tiny Tots/Pre-K programs and elementary grades.
- West Campus: Houses additional Pre-School/Tiny Tots/Pre-K programs and elementary grades.
- High School Campus: Dedicated to our high school students.
Will existing traditions continue?
As St. Patrick's Academy unifies, we are committed to fostering a vibrant new identity that honors the rich history and cherished traditions of all three campuses. While building exciting new traditions as a unified academy, we understand the importance of past customs and aim to integrate and celebrate those beloved elements that contribute to our strong connection to the past.
Who do I contact with further questions?
For any additional questions, you can contact St. Patrick's Academy directly:
Phone: (406) 452-0551