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The Cristo Rey Network

The Cristo Rey Network® of 39 high schools delivers a career-focused, college preparatory education in the Catholic tradition for students with limited economic resources, uniquely integrating rigorous academic curricula with four years of professional work experience and support to and through college. Cristo Rey partners with educators, businesses, and communities to enable students to fulfill their aspirations for a lifetime of success!

Cristo Rey Research Triangle High School is a member of the Cristo Rey Network of high schools, comprised of 39 schools nationwide, delivering a career-focused, college preparatory education in the Catholic tradition for students with limited economic resources, uniquely integrating rigorous academic curricula with four years of professional work experience and support to and through college. We partner with educators, businesses, and communities to enable students to fulfill their aspirations for a lifetime of success. The Cristo Rey movement empowers students to fulfill their life's dreams.

When Cristo Rey Jesuit High School opened under the leadership of John P. Foley, S.J. in 1996, it introduced a highly innovative integration of academic and professional experience to Catholic secondary education in the United States. This groundbreaking model allowed students to work one day a week in entry-level jobs at local businesses and nonprofit organizations to help pay for their tuition. The model had immediate appeal, first to Catholic educators nationwide and soon after to prominent philanthropists committed to educational reform.

Through the talent and commitment of local communities and generous and enthusiastic support from philanthropic investors, the Cristo Rey Network has grown over the last 20 years from a single school in south Chicago to a national network of 35 schools. During a period when traditional Catholic schools were shuttering their doors at an alarming rate, the Cristo Rey Network has grown into the largest network of high schools in the country that exclusively serves low-income students. Today, Cristo Rey schools operate in 24 states and collectively serve over 12,000 students. The Cristo Rey model has become a proven and highly replicable solution to the challenge of providing high-quality college preparatory education and real-world work experience to young people from families with limited economic resources.

The Cristo Rey Network has a proven track record of success. According to recent statistics, 85% of Cristo Rey Network graduates who enroll earn their degree within six years. The network's alumni are also making a difference in their communities. Kati Fernandez, a Cristo Rey Boston High School graduate, is working to empower and uplift youth leaders in the Dominican Republic. Ayishat Adeniran, a graduate of Cristo Rey Jesuit College Preparatory School of Houston, is serving as chair of a council on the National Leadership Council and giving back to Cristo Rey in her own way.
 
Cesar Muñoz, a Cristo Rey Jesuit High School graduate in Chicago, is now working to found a Cristo Rey school in Miami. He says, "This program was, and continues to be, a home for my family and I. This is my motivation for making Cristo Rey Miami the best place for our students and families." 
  1. What are Cristo Rey Network Schools? Cristo Rey Network Schools are a network of private Catholic high schools that provide low-income students with a college preparatory education integrated with professional work experience. The network was founded in 1996 with the mission of transforming urban education. 
  2. How many Cristo Rey Network Schools are there? As of 2021, there are 37 Cristo Rey Network Schools across the United States.
  3. What is the Cristo Rey Corporate Work Study Program? The Cristo Rey Corporate Work Study Program is a unique program that allows students to earn part of their tuition by working at local businesses and organizations. Students work one day a week during the school year, gaining valuable work experience and developing professional skills.
  4. What is the graduation rate at Cristo Rey Network Schools? The graduation rate at Cristo Rey Network Schools is 95%, which is significantly higher than the national high school graduation rate.
  5. What is the college acceptance rate for Cristo Rey Network Schools graduates? 100% of Cristo Rey Network Schools graduates are accepted to college. Many graduates go on to attend top-tier universities and colleges.
  6. What is the student-teacher ratio at Cristo Rey Network Schools? The student-teacher ratio at Cristo Rey Network Schools is approximately 16:1, which allows for personalized attention and support for each student.
  7. Are Cristo Rey Network Schools only for Catholic students? No, Cristo Rey Network Schools welcome students of all faiths and backgrounds. While the schools are Catholic-affiliated, they do not require students to be Catholic or participate in religious activities.
  8. Do Cristo Rey Network Schools offer financial aid? Yes, Cristo Rey Network Schools offer financial aid to students who demonstrate financial need. The schools are committed to ensuring that all students, regardless of their financial situation, have access to a high-quality education.
  9. What is the average class size at Cristo Rey Network Schools? The average class size at Cristo Rey Network Schools is approximately 18 students, which allows for a collaborative and engaging learning environment.
  10. How do I apply to a Cristo Rey Network School? To apply to a Cristo Rey Network School, students must submit an application, send transcripts, and participate in an interview.
  • Schools: 39
  • States: 24
  • Religious Sponsors: 38
  • Endorsers: 38
  • Faculty and Staff: 1,745
  • Board Members: 670
  • Students: 13,000
  • Students of Color: 98%
  • Average Family Income: $37,000
  • Attendance Rate: 97%
  • Graduates since 1996: 18,035
  • University Partners: 51
  • College Enrollment: 90%
  • Corporate Partners: 3,450
  • Retention of Corporate Partners: 87%