The journey to high school success begins with Onward 2 High School, an exciting new partnership that St. Maria Goretti Catholic School is proud to join in the 2025/2026 school year. Made possible through the generous support of The John H. and Cynthia Lee Smet Foundation, Onward 2 High School is a bridge program designed to help middle school students excel academically while preparing them for the rigorous demands of competitive higher education. St. Maria Goretti is honored to be one of only two schools selected in our region to participate in this transformative initiative.

Onward 2 High School provides students with critical resources and support to help them succeed from middle school through high school. Through this program, students will have access to partner schools and summer institutes that focus on academic excellence, interest exploration, and social success. Special opportunities such as college readiness workshops, "Math Saturdays," and specialized support in core subjects will help students build a solid academic foundation. These initiatives are particularly exciting for St. Maria Goretti students, as the math-focused programs available through our partnership will give them unique, hands-on learning experiences that foster both proficiency and enthusiasm in mathematics.

Onward 2 High School doesn't just benefit our middle school students; it also enhances our elementary program. The introduction of an advanced curriculum in math will help students at every level develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. This curriculum provides a strong foundation for future academic growth, preparing students to succeed in competitive educational environments. Additionally, elementary teachers will have opportunities for professional development, ensuring they are equipped with the tools and knowledge to teach this advanced curriculum effectively. This will enhance the overall academic quality of our school and better prepare our students for the challenges they will face in the future.

This program is essential not only for our students, but also for our families and community. It equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive academically, navigate the high school experience, and ultimately pursue a path to higher education. With a focus on the Common Core curriculum, Onward 2 High School ensures that our students are prepared for the future with a strong academic base, aligned with national standards, that will set them up for long-term success.

The partnership with Onward 2 High School also enhances our other school initiatives, such as Thinker Tank and Thinker Tank Invents, by fostering a deeper focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Students will gain access to even more opportunities to explore creative ideas, collaborate with peers, and develop practical inventions. Additionally, the collaboration with C3 Ignite is advancing our school's technology infrastructure, ensuring that St. Maria Goretti students will have the digital tools and resources necessary for success in today’s rapidly evolving world.

Ultimately, Onward 2 High School opens the door to countless future opportunities for our students. It helps us create a pipeline of talent, innovation, and academic achievement that will benefit not only our students but also their families and the broader community. With this partnership, St. Maria Goretti is building a stronger, brighter future for the next generation of leaders.