SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Catholic Diocese of Springfield announced plans to create a new Classical Catholic high school that would offer a liberal‑arts curriculum rooted in Catholic teaching. The proposal is currently in a public‑feedback phase, with parishioners invited to share their thoughts via an online survey.
Classical education model
Mark Newcomb, director of the Diocese’s Department for Catholic Education, explained the concept on WTAX’s Morning Newswatch. He said the term “classical” reflects an educational tradition that prevailed in America up until the late 1960s. “In a classical mindset, you’re less concerned about ‘Hey students, just learn the formula. Just get this data. Just get this information for the grade and the degree,’” Newcomb said. “It’s looking at things in creation and asking, ‘Why are they this way? Why is this something rather than nothing?’”
Proposed location and naming
The diocese is considering the former Cathedral School building downtown for the new campus. If approved, the school would be named the Fulton Sheen Academy in honor of the late Catholic priest and television evangelist who is currently on the path to sainthood.
Curriculum and community interest
Newcomb outlined a four‑year program that would cover a range of subjects within a Catholic liberal‑arts framework. While the school would not compete directly with the diocese’s existing Sacred Heart Griffin high school, it could provide an additional option for families seeking a faith‑centered education. The diocese has also noted interest from members of other religious denominations who are curious about the curriculum.
Next steps
Parishioners can submit feedback by clicking the link provided in the diocese’s announcement. If the feedback phase concludes positively, the school could open as early as the upcoming fall semester.
The initiative reflects the diocese’s commitment to offering educational choices that align with Catholic values and the intellectual tradition of the Church, giving families another avenue to nurture both faith and learning.
Original reporting: Capitol City Now (WTAX 1240 Springfield) — read the source article.
