FAQ's

Common questions asked by Parents, Students and Prospective Families

What sets St. Cecilia Cathedral School apart from other schools?

Our school's international AdvancED Accreditation and two-time recognition by the United States Department of Education is something that few other schools in the nation can claim. We are proud of the diversity of our student body.  We draw students from over 30 different zip codes.

How big is the school and classes?

The school has an average enrollment of 315.  All grades have two sections.  The student to teacher ratio is 14:1.  The PreKindergarten ratio is 12:1.  Class sizes in grades K-8 range from 11 to 24.  The average class size is 17 students.

Do I have to pay the tuition all at once?

Tuition can be paid through a monthly or quarterly electronic plan, semi-annual or annual payments.

Is there Tuition Assistance?

St. Cecilia is blessed to be able to offer multiple avenues of tuition assistance to our families.

1. Parish Tuition Assistance: The St. Cecilia Education Endowment Board awards $50,000 each year to families in need for tuition assistance. Families can complete the Tuition Assistance Form during the registration process to apply for aid.

2. Children’s Scholarship Fund (CSF) of Omaha: families with students currently enrolled in Grades K – 7 that meet the financial guidelines may apply to CSF.

3. Multiple parish tuition scholarships: Due to the generosity of the St. Cecilia Cathedral Parish, we offer several $500 scholarships.

When does the school day begin and end?

The school day for grades PreK - 5 is 8:00 A.M. – 3:15 P.M.

The school day for grades 6-8 is 7:55 A.M. – 3:10 P.M.

Is there before and after school care available?

Before and after school care is available through the St. Cecilia Cathedral Child Care.  The center is open from 6:30 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. 

What is the curriculum?

We follow the Archdiocesan Curriculum Standards for Reading/Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Religion, and Technology. In addition, our students participate in classes in P.E., Music, Art, and Library.  In the Middle School, Spanish is also a regular part of the curriculum.

How does one apply for entrance into the school?

To complete the admission process for St. Cecilia Cathedral Grade School, students and parents must complete the following:

• Attend Kindergarten / PreKindergarten Roundup (If applicable)

• Go on a private tour of the school with principal (all incoming students, PreK – 8)

• The following documents must be on file in the school office: Original Birth Certificate, Original Baptismal Certificate (if Catholic), Up-to-date Health and Immunization Records

• If transferring from another school, a copy of all student records must be sent to St. Cecilia prior to full acceptance

How do I get more information about the school or arrange for a tour?

Click here to complete the form to contact the school office and schedule your tour.

Do the students wear uniforms?

St. Cecilia Cathedral Grade School believes that clothes do not define a person. Wearing a uniform allows students to express their individuality in their actions, words, academics, and athletics. Uniforms are required every day, except on out of uniform days. All girl uniform jumpers, skorts, and skirts must be purchased at DiGiorgio’s. All other blouses, shirts, polos, shorts, and slacks may be purchased at a department store (color choice and style must look like the DiGiorgio’s uniform pieces).

How can parents get involved in the school?

We love our parent volunteers!  From serving lunch, assisting in the library,  coaching sports, to being club moderators, parents (and grandparents) are a vital part of our community.  Parents take the lead in two major annual fundraisers each year: the parish festival, Cathedralfest, and our dinner/auction, Comedy and Cuisine. We also have two active parent organizations, the Home and School Association and the Activities Booster Club (ABC). Click here to sign up!

What high schools do St. Cecilia students attend after they graduate from 8th grade?

Our students go to a variety of area high schools.  The majority of our students go to Catholic High Schools such as Creighton Prep. Duchesne Academy, Marian High School, Mercy High School, Skutt Catholic High School, or Roncalli Catholic High School.  Those attending public schools usually attend Central High School.

We are proud of our graduates.  The high schools let us know that they are grateful to get graduates of St. Cecilia Cathedral School.  The students come prepared with the study skills and the academic knowledge to be successful in high school and beyond.