News

Through the Ignite Our Future (IOF) campaign we raised over $8 million to deepen the formation of young adults, increase teacher compensation, and ensure access to Catholic education for current and future Cougars. We are humbled by the overwhelming generosity of our community.

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Highlight #1 – Teacher Fund:

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Catholic Central has always had outstanding teachers who deliver rigorous, faith-based education. For years, however, they have been underpaid compared to their peers in public schools. We are thrilled to share that $4M was raised through this campaign to improve teacher compensation!

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Strategy:

• In 2024-25 and 2025-26, the IOF Teacher Fund will increase compensation increases to our established benchmark: 90% of East Grand Rapids Public Schools
• Going forward, teacher compensation is forecasted to increase by 4% annually, supported by both the operating budget and the IOF Teacher Fund.

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Sustainability:

• Our conservative forecasts, considering draws and investment returns, predict the Fund can support 4% annual salary increases until at least the 2030-31 school year.
• Interest on the Fund plays a critical role in maintaining its longevity, helping offset annual draws.

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Thank you for believing in our mission and investing in the people who make Catholic Central such an exceptional place to learn and grow – our teachers.

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Highlight #2 – Tuition Assistance: 

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Our commitment to excellence in education is inseparable from our mission as Catholics. But this mission can only be fulfilled if every student, regardless of financial circumstance, has access to the Christ-centered education we provide.

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As the Church, we are called to uphold the dignity of every person and to care for one another as members of one body. Providing tuition assistance to over 46% of CC students is a tangible expression of that calling. It allows us to partner with families in their educational journey, helping them form students who are academically prepared, spiritually grounded, and ready to serve the world.

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The monies raised by the campaign ensure Catholic Central remains a place where all are welcome and all can thrive. It is through this shared mission that we build not just strong students but strong communities rooted in faith, compassion, and hope.

Click here to read the full IOF Campaign Report