Business Details
Catholic College Preparatory School in Waterbury, CT
Founded in the tradition of the Congregation of Holy Cross, our school has dedicated itself to nurturing both intellectual and spiritual growth since our establishment. We provide a college preparatory education rooted in Catholic values, serving students from over 30 towns in the Greater Waterbury area. Our unique approach combines rigorous academics with character development, offering specialized programs like our Science Academy while maintaining small class sizes that foster individual attention.Through community service initiatives and faith-based education, we cultivate lifelong learners who become compassionate leaders. Our faculty, many of whom are recognized experts in their fields, work tirelessly to create an environment where students develop critical thinking skills and values-based decision making. With a history spanning decades, we continue to evolve while staying true to our mission of educating hearts and minds.
Services
College Prep Curriculum
Science Academy Program
Faith Development
Community Service Initiatives
Extracurricular Activities
Highlights and features
- We offer college preparatory curriculum with individualized attention
- Our Science Academy provides specialized STEM education
- Faith development integrated with academic instruction
- Students engage in voluntary community service initiatives
- Small class sizes ensure personalized learning experiences
Services
College Prep Curriculum
Our college preparatory curriculum challenges students with rigorous coursework across all disciplines. Certified educators deliver instruction that develops critical thinking skills while preparing students for higher education success. The program includes honors courses and college-level classes through our partnership with UCONN Early College Experience.
Science Academy Program
The Science Academy offers specialized STEM education with advanced laboratory experiences and research opportunities. Students engage in project-based learning while working with industry-standard equipment. The program prepares graduates for competitive science and engineering programs at top universities.
Faith Development
Faith development is integrated throughout our curriculum and school culture. Students participate in theology classes, service projects, and spiritual activities that nurture their relationship with God while respecting diverse beliefs within our Catholic tradition.
Community Service Initiatives
Our service initiatives connect students with local organizations through meaningful volunteer opportunities. Programs like Helping Hands and Crusade for a Cure teach compassion while addressing community needs in Greater Waterbury and surrounding areas.
Extracurricular Activities
We offer comprehensive extracurricular programs including athletics, performing arts, and academic clubs. Students develop leadership skills through organizations like Student Council, National Honor Society, and Peer Ministry while building school spirit.
People
Karen Pellegrino
Director of Enrollment Management
Karen Pellegrino brings extensive admissions experience to Holy Cross, having served in educational leadership roles for over 15 years with a focus on student recruitment and family engagement.
Dr. Thomas C. Pellegrino
President
Dr. Thomas C. Pellegrino leads with a vision for academic excellence and values-based education, drawing on decades of experience in Catholic school administration and educational leadership.
Chris Ciarleglio
Director of Science Academy
Dr. Chris Ciarleglio, a Holy Cross alumnus, oversees our Science Academy with expertise in STEM education, having earned his doctorate in molecular biophysics and biochemistry from Yale University.
Todd Santa Maria
Director of Communications
Todd Santa Maria manages school communications with over 20 years of marketing and media experience, ensuring effective outreach to families and community partners.
Kathleen Partin
Director of Finance
Kathleen Partin oversees financial operations with expertise in educational budgeting and resource management, ensuring fiscal responsibility while supporting academic programs.
Questions
What makes Holy Cross High School unique?
We combine Catholic values with college preparatory academics in a community that emphasizes both intellectual growth and character development.
What academic programs do you offer?
We provide college preparatory courses, honors classes, and specialized programs like our Science Academy with STEM-focused curriculum.
Is community service required?
While not mandatory, our students voluntarily participate in extensive service projects through various student-led organizations.
What is the student-teacher ratio?
Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention with an average student-teacher ratio of 12:1.
How do you support college preparation?
We offer college counseling, SAT/ACT preparation, and partnerships with institutions like UCONN ECE for dual enrollment opportunities.
What extracurricular activities are available?
We provide diverse options including athletics, theater, visual arts, academic clubs, and student government leadership opportunities.
