CINCINNATI — The transformation of DePaul Cristo Rey High School is well underway after school and community leaders surpassed a fundraising goal to reconfigure the campus and construct two additional buildings.
The “Building. Futures. Together. For a Greater Cincinnati” campaign raised $20.8 million in less than two years, exceeding its goal by $645,000.
The college preparatory high school on Clifton Hills Avenue serves students in ninth through 12th grade.
Individuals, foundations, businesses and New Market Tax Credits contributed to the campaign, said a school spokesperson in a news release Wednesday.
A new student center with gymnasium and cafeteria is currently under construction and is expected to be complete this summer. A second new facility, a three-story academic building, is expected to be built by summer of 2020.
The campus transformation also includes a reconfigured campus entrance and new parking. Excess money raised will help pay for a new AV system in the student center, more food service equipment and security measures.
School and campaign leaders hope to raise another $4 million for the school’s Graduate Success Program which provides resources to help graduates go on to complete their college education, the news release said.
DePaul Cristo Rey High School opened in June, 2011, and is sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati.
All students participate in the Corporate Work Study Program, giving students the opportunity to work in entry-level positions at Cincinnati companies five days each month, according to the school’s website.
The national Cristo Rey Network serves families seeking a “private, college preparatory education” for children but cannot afford it.
Students at DePaul Cristo Rey live in communities across the Tri-State.
