Founded in 1889, St. Catherine's Academy is a Catholic school with a military tradition for boys in kindergarten – 8th grade.
We provide young men with a faith-filled foundation for lifelong success.
Our multifaceted program includes faith formation, all-boys academics, and a military tradition for leadership and self-motivation.
We offer small classes, state-of-the-art technology, marching band, athletics, and much more.
We welcome day and boarding students. As the only Catholic grade school with a military tradition in the US, our school is so unique you have to see it for yourself!.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked CA School
- Grades: Kindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 163 students
- Yearly Tuition: $10,810
- Acceptance rate: 70%
- Average class size: 15 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
St. Catherine's Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-8
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
ESL, Resource Specialist
Year Founded
1889
Summer School Offered
Yes
Student Body
Total Students
163 students
Student Body Type
% Students of Color
88%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
17 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
10:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
64%
Average Class Size
15 students
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$10,810
Tuition Notes
5-day and 7-day boarding options available for both U.S. and International students.
% on Financial Aid
35%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$2,500
Acceptance Rate
70%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Graciela Salvador
Admissions Associate
Jesenia Botello
Sports
Total Sports Offered
7 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
4 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Color Guard, Drill Team, Marching Band, Prayer Group
School Notes
- Founded and operated by the Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose, St. Catherine's Academy is an independent Catholic boys' academy with a military tradition. We are committed to guiding each boy to his fullest potential.
- As the only all boys' elementary school in southern California, we are dedicated to providing the best learning environment for boys by offering small class sizes, more teacher attention, structure and consistency. Our teachers are able to focus on the specific learning styles of boys and young men.
- St. Catherine's offers enrichment classes in music, physical education, Spanish, computer skills, laboratory science, teamwork and leadership, marching band, piano, and guitar.
- The St. Catherine's faculty consists of Dominican Sisters and lay colleagues. Our faculty members have an average of 23 years experience, and 64% hold advanced degrees. St. Catherine's teachers are known for their open communication with parents and dedication to overall student success.
- St. Catherine's offers opportunities for students' faith to find expression in their daily lives and choices by:providing liturgical experiences which encourage active participation as lectors, choir members, and altar servers; providing religion classes which present doctrine and scripture in a relevant and interesting manner; engaging cadets in various prayer experiences in class, in the dormitory, and at morning assembly; and helping cadets to reflect on the values and moral principles which guide their choices and actions.
- Our military program strives to instill in our boys leadership, confidence, honor, courage, commitment, responsibility, compassion, and respect. An SCA cadet places a high value on personal integrity and adherence to the honor code. The structure and consistency of this program enables our boys to develop leadership skills, self-motivation, and confidence.
- Our boarding option (grades 4 – 8 only) gives added structure to a student's day. Resident students participate in a full day of classes, activities, meals, and study hall before returning to one of our four dormitories, which are staffed by our Dominican Sisters.
- Approximately 20% of students are international, introducing our cadets to a variety of cultures.
- With a fun and secure 8-acre campus, SCA is located in southern California, just minutes away from Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm, and the beach. Our spacious campus includes a football field, an obstacle course, an indoor heated pool, and a gymnasium.
- Our academic facilities are second-to-none. Each classroom is equipped with a SmartBoard. Facilities also include a computer lab, science lab, piano room with ten practice pianos, band room, guitar room, and newly renovated library.
- Our program is so unique you have to see if for yourself. Schedule your tour today!
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does St. Catherine's Academy cost?
St. Catherine's Academy's tuition is approximately $10,810 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of St. Catherine's Academy?
The acceptance rate of St. Catherine's Academy is 70%, which is lower than the national average of 84%. St. Catherine's Academy's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in California with low acceptance rates.
What sports does St. Catherine's Academy offer?
St. Catherine's Academy offers 7 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Drill Team, Flag Football, Soccer, Softball, Swimming and Volleyball.
What is St. Catherine's Academy's ranking?
St. Catherine's Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Lowest average acceptance rates and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for St. Catherine's Academy?
The application deadline for St. Catherine's Academy is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is St. Catherine's Academy located?
St. Catherine's Academy is located in the Downtown Anaheim neighborhood of Anaheim, CA. There are 3 other private schools located in Downtown Anaheim.
School Reviews
5 9/22/2021
Excellent foundational curriculum and personality/attitude building. My son is always excited to come back to this scholastic residence on Sunday afternoons to rejoin his friends and teachers. The changes brought on him in academics and outdoor activities by the teachers and military instructors are beyond our expectations as parents. We wish they have 9th-12th high school classes.
5 4/5/2013
Best school for boys. Outstanding education by the top teachers. Excellent discipline by ex military men via self control and physical exercise. Healthy, positive atmosphere empowering young men. Kind and nurturing guidance by the nuns and office staff. Wholesome, healthy meals from scratch 3 meals a day by kitchen crew. We drive because our boys deserve an amazing environment.
Endorse St. Catherine's Academy. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Early Childhood Education Approaches: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.
Making the Right Choice: A Parent's Guide to Private School Selection
We explore the reasons to consider private school education, compares boarding and day school options, and outlines essential factors in choosing the right school. It provides parents with valuable insights to make informed decisions about their child's education, drawing from real-world scenarios and expert advice.
Navigating Private School Finances: A Parent's Guide
This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of private school tuition and financing options. Divided into three chapters, it covers understanding private school tuition, various payment methods, and seven specific options for managing educational expenses. The article aims to provide parents and guardians with valuable insights and practical strategies to make private education more accessible and affordable.