Allentown Central Catholic High School
1. General Information
About Allentown Central Catholic High School
Allentown Central Catholic High School (ACCHS) is a private, co-educational Catholic high school situated in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Established in 1926 by the Right Reverend Leo Gregory Fink, the school was originally named Masson Memorial School in honor of Msgr. Peter Masson. Over the decades, ACCHS has evolved into a prominent educational institution within the Diocese of Allentown.
The school’s mission is to provide a comprehensive, college-preparatory education rooted in Catholic values, aiming to develop students spiritually, intellectually, and socially. ACCHS offers a rigorous academic curriculum complemented by a wide array of extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and community service. The school emphasizes the development of the whole person, preparing students to be responsible citizens and committed Catholics.
Contact Information
- Address: 301 N. 4th Street, Allentown, PA 18102, USA
- Phone Number: (610) 437-4601
- Email Address: info@acchs.info
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1926 |
| Motto | Semper Fidelis (“Always Faithful”) |
| School Colors | Green and Gold |
| Mascot | Vikings and Vikettes |
| Accreditation | Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Affiliation | National Catholic Educational Association |
Allentown Central Catholic High School Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Best Catholic High Schools in America | 475/1,146 |
| Best High Schools for Athletes in America | 784/21,283 |
| Best Catholic High Schools in Pennsylvania | 18/71 |
| Best High Schools for Athletes in Pennsylvania | 31/855 |
| Most Diverse Private High Schools in Pennsylvania | 42/237 |
| Best College Prep Private High Schools in Pennsylvania | 46/221 |
| Best Private High Schools in Pennsylvania | 64/229 |
| Best High Schools for STEM in Pennsylvania | 125/284 |
| Best High Schools for Athletes in Lehigh Valley Area | 1/35 |
| Best Catholic High Schools in Lehigh Valley Area | 1/3 |
| Best College Prep Private High Schools in Lehigh Valley Area | 2/7 |
| Best Private High Schools in Lehigh Valley Area | 2/7 |
| Most Diverse Private High Schools in Lehigh Valley Area | 3/8 |
| Best High Schools for STEM in Lehigh Valley Area | 6/19 |
2. Allentown Central Catholic High School Academics
Allentown Central Catholic High School Faculties / Departments
- Theology
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Foreign Languages
- Fine Arts
- Physical Education
- Technology and Business
- Special Education
Allentown Central Catholic High School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
- Honors Courses
- College Preparatory Courses
- Dual Enrollment Programs
- Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Engineering Program
- Fine Arts: Visual Arts, Music, Drama
- Foreign Languages: Spanish, Latin
- Technology and Business Education
- Physical Education and Health
Online Learning
ACCHS offers online learning opportunities through dual enrollment programs in partnership with local colleges and universities. These programs allow students to take college-level courses while still in high school, providing a head start on their higher education journey.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1183 |
| ACT | 27 |
Retention and Graduation Rates
ACCHS boasts a high retention rate, with approximately 99% of students graduating within four years. The school’s commitment to academic excellence and student support contributes to this impressive statistic.
3. Allentown Central Catholic High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
- GPA Range: 3.0 – 4.0
- SAT Range: 1100 – 1300
- ACT Range: 24 – 30
Allentown Central Catholic High School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Acceptance | 99% |
Allentown Central Catholic High School Application Requirements
Prospective students are required to submit the following materials:
- Completed application form
- Official transcripts from previous schools
- Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Interview (optional but recommended)
Application Process
- Complete and submit the online application form.
- Provide official transcripts and standardized test scores.
- Submit letters of recommendation and personal statement.
- Schedule and attend an interview (if applicable).
- Await admission decision and respond accordingly.
Allentown Central Catholic High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | Rolling admissions |
| Enrollment Deposit Due | Within 30 days of acceptance |
Essay Prompt
Applicants are asked to write an essay on the following topic:
“Describe a personal experience that has shaped your character and how you plan to contribute to the Allentown Central Catholic High School community.”
Allentown Central Catholic High School Scholarships
ACCHS offers various scholarships based on academic achievement, financial need, and extracurricular involvement. Scholarships are available for both incoming and current students.
Allentown Central Catholic High School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Day Tuition | $13,100 |
| International Student Tuition | Additional fees apply |
*Note: Tuition rates are subject to change; please contact the admissions office for the most current information.
4. Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
- Gender: Approximately 50% male, 50% female
- Age: Students are typically between 14 and 18 years old
- Race/Ethnicity:
- Hispanic: 82.4%
- Black: 15.2%
- Asian or Pacific Islander: 1.5%
- White: 1%
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
ACCHS is committed to providing an inclusive education for all students. The school offers financial aid programs to assist low-income families and has resources in place to support students with disabilities, ensuring they have equal access to educational opportunities.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 639 |
| International Students | 5% |
University Diversity
Allentown Central Catholic High School prides itself on its diverse student body, which reflects a broad spectrum of cultural, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds. This diversity enriches the educational experience, fostering an environment where students learn to appreciate and respect differences. The school’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its policies and programs that promote equity and justice, preparing students to be responsible citizens in a global society.
Average Earnings
Graduates of ACCHS have gone on to attend prestigious colleges and universities, with many pursuing successful careers in various fields. The school’s strong academic foundation and emphasis on character development equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in their professional lives.
5. Allentown Central Catholic High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
ACCHS employs a dedicated team of educators and support staff who are committed to the academic and personal growth of each student. The faculty includes individuals with advanced degrees and specialized training in their respective fields, ensuring high-quality instruction.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members at ACCHS are recognized for their expertise and achievements in education. Many hold master’s degrees or higher and have received accolades for their contributions to teaching and learning. The school’s faculty is passionate about fostering a love of learning and guiding students to reach their full potential.
6. Allentown Central Catholic High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
ACCHS is located in a midsize city campus setting, providing students with access to urban amenities while maintaining a close-knit school community. The campus features modern facilities, including classrooms, athletic fields, and arts spaces. While the school does not offer on-campus housing, students from the Lehigh Valley area and beyond attend ACCHS, with many commuting daily.
Transportation
The school is accessible by various modes of transportation. Students can utilize public transit options available in Allentown, and the campus is situated in a walkable area. For those who commute from surrounding regions, carpooling and private transportation are common. The school’s location in the city center allows students to engage with the local community and participate in off-campus activities.