Kolbe Cathedral High School

Background

Kolbe Cathedral High School, established in 1976 through the merger of Kolbe Boys High School and Cathedral Girls High School, is a Catholic co-educational secondary institution located in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The school is dedicated to serving a diverse, multicultural urban community, emphasizing the development of young Christian men and women academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. The school's mission is encapsulated in its motto: "Work hard and be nice."

Key Strategic Focus

Kolbe Cathedral High School focuses on providing a rigorous academic curriculum within a faith-based environment. The school offers a 4x4 block schedule, where students take four 80-minute classes each semester, allowing for in-depth exploration of subjects. Advanced Placement (AP) courses available include AP Computer Science Principles, English Language and Composition, Human Geography, and U.S. History. The institution also emphasizes extracurricular engagement, offering various clubs and organizations such as the Catholic Youth Service Corp, Improv Club, Youth in Government, and a Choir program.

Financials and Funding

Tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year is set at $8,650. To support families, the school offers financial aid and scholarships. Notably, the Mary Alice and Thomas O’Malley Scholarship, beginning in the 2024-2025 academic year, covers up to 80% of tuition for children of Fairfield County Police Officers, Firefighters, and Hospital-based Registered Nurses.

Pipeline Development

Kolbe Cathedral High School continually seeks to enhance its educational offerings. Recent developments include the establishment of the Louis V. Gerstner III Center for Students and Families, which houses support and enrichment programs, a student success center, weight and exercise rooms, and classrooms.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The school integrates technology into its curriculum to prepare students for the digital age. This includes offering AP Computer Science Principles and utilizing modern educational tools to enhance learning experiences.

Leadership Team

Camille Figluizzi: Principal. Under her leadership, the school has expanded its facilities and programs, including the development of the Gerstner Center.

Daniel Routhier: Assistant Principal. He plays a pivotal role in academic administration and student affairs.

David Hennessey: Director of Admissions. He oversees the admissions process, ensuring a diverse and talented student body.

Leadership Changes

In 2017, Jo-Anne Jakab retired after 43 years of service, including 26 years as principal. She was succeeded by Henry Rondon, who previously served as the Dean of Students.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The private high school market in Fairfield County, Connecticut, is competitive, with institutions striving to offer unique programs and maintain high academic standards. Kolbe Cathedral High School distinguishes itself through its commitment to affordability and serving a diverse urban population.

Competitor Analysis

Notre Dame High School, Fairfield: A Catholic co-educational high school known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities.

St. Joseph High School, Trumbull: Offers a rigorous curriculum with a focus on college preparation and a variety of athletic programs.

Fairfield College Preparatory School: An all-boys Jesuit high school emphasizing academic excellence and community service.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Kolbe Cathedral High School has established partnerships to enhance its educational offerings. The Mary Alice and Thomas O’Malley Scholarship is a significant collaboration providing substantial financial aid to eligible students. Additionally, the development of the Gerstner Center was made possible through support from Gerstner Philanthropies, enhancing facilities and programs for students and families.

Operational Insights

The school's strategic location in Bridgeport allows it to serve a diverse student body. Its commitment to affordability, faith-based education, and comprehensive support services provides a competitive advantage in the private high school market.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Kolbe Cathedral High School aims to continue expanding its facilities and programs to meet the evolving needs of its students. Future plans include enhancing technological integration in the curriculum and developing additional partnerships to provide more opportunities for students.