Opening Doors to Catholic High Schools

CISE INVESTS $1.5 MILLION IN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

For hundreds of students in Cincinnati, access to a Catholic high school education would not be possible without support. CISE has provided this support for decades, ensuring students from underserved communities can continue their values-based Catholic education and pursue opportunities that shape their future.

During the current academic year, a total of $1,556,000 will support students attending 14 Catholic high schools throughout Cincinnati. This includes $1,182,000 in scholarships, along with an additional $374,000 in student support funding, benefiting more than 550 CISE high school students.

This funding helps ensure students have the academic guidance, personal encouragement, and financial resources needed to thrive in high school, empowering students and strengthening communities.

“This investment is about more than tuition,” said Phil McHugh, CISE President and Executive Director. “It reflects a long-term commitment to walking with students from kindergarten through high school and preparing them for success in college, career, and life.”

Four-year renewable scholarships are awarded to eighth graders from CISE-supported elementary schools who wish to continue their education at a Catholic high school. For many families, these scholarships bridge the financial gap between what state programs such as EdChoice provide and the actual cost of tuition, which makes continuing Catholic education possible.

At Holy Family School, Principal Katie Puthoff has seen firsthand what that opportunity can mean. “I’ve seen eighth graders attend Catholic high schools they never thought would be possible, thanks to the scholarships and support provided through CISE,” said Puthoff.

That opportunity often creates ripple effects that extend well beyond graduation.

“I’ve had a parent come to my office four years after their child graduated from Holy Family just to tell me it was a happy day because his baby was graduating from Purcell Marian High School and heading to UC for college, the first person in the family to pursue a college degree,” she said.

Support does not stop with tuition assistance. Dedicated high school advocates help students navigate the transition into a larger academic environment, adjust to increased expectations, and build confidence as they grow into young adults. Advocates walk alongside students to help them feel a sense of belonging and fully participate in school life. That support can look different for each student, from helping cover the cost of a field trip or school spirit wear to ensuring a student can attend prom or participate in extracurricular activities. By removing barriers and offering consistent encouragement, advocates help students focus on learning, building friendships, and preparing for life after graduation.

For students like Lofell Tarver, a senior at La Salle High School, that consistent support has been life-changing. “I want to thank CISE and all the donors for believing in me and giving me this opportunity,” he shared. “You have made a lasting difference in my life.”

This year’s total investment represents a nearly twenty percent increase over the prior school year, reflecting growing need and continued donor support. As CISE advances its long-term focus to strengthen educational access and improve outcomes, high school student support is expected to increase substantially in the 2026–2027 school year and beyond.

From preschool through high school, students and families are supported every step of the way. By investing in young people during these formative years, CISE continues its mission of empowering students and strengthening communities across Cincinnati.