“Saint Olaf deeply understands the transformative power of Risen Christ School, as well as the challenges involved in bringing hope and opportunity through outstanding Catholic education. You help insure that Risen Christ School is financially accessible, academically excellent and faith-filled.”
Over 300 bright, young students are the reason Saint Olaf became involved with Risen Christ Catholic School. This partnership was established in 1998 to provide volunteers and financial support for the school’s mission of providing safe, academically challenging, faith-filled learning in the inner city. Saint Olaf parishioners and friends have provided over $1,000,000 in financial support from 1998 through 2004.
Risen Christ Catholic School, located in the Powderhorn Park area of south Minneapolis, began in 1993 as a consolidation of five K-8 parish schools. The original schools included Holy Name, Holy Rosary, Incarnation, St. Albert the Great, Incarnation, and St. Stephen’s.
Staff and volunteers share a commitment to developing the spiritual, academic, social, physical and leadership gifts of the children. The student population reflects the diversity of south Minneapolis and includes 83% Latino students. Over 95% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch.
Dual Language Immersion (DLI) provides a wide array of benefits for all students: enhanced brain development (better thinking, mathematical and problem-solving skills); higher academic achievement in all subjects; additional knowledge and understanding of one’s native language; greater understanding, appreciation and respect for other languages and cultures; and better employment opportunities. Students become bilingual, bi-literate and bicultural citizens in an increasingly diverse world, learning in both Spanish and English. Present kindergarten classes are dual language. This immersion program will greatly enhance the school’s ability to address the challenges of the achievement gap, according to President Helen Dahlman.
How Can You Help?
Volunteer support helps the school provide a high-quality education and opportunity for students to learn skills for a successful future. Volunteers provide encouragement and hope to eager students. For more information about volunteer opportunities, please contact the school at:www.risenchristschool.org/volunteer/volunteer-opportunities or call 612-822-5329.