St. Paul of the Cross School, part of the Park Ridge community since 1925, provides a faith-centered, academically rigorous education for students from Preschool through eighth grade.
Rooted in Catholic values and a strong partnership among students, families, and educators, SPC nurtures the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, physical, and moral growth of each child.
With a challenging curriculum, dedicated faculty, and opportunities in Fine Arts, STEAM, technology, and service, SPC prepares students to thrive in high school and beyond.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Top-Ranked IL School
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-8
- Enrollment: 736 students
- Yearly Tuition: $7,775
- Average class size: 22 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
St. Paul Of The Cross School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for:
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-8
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1925
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Awards
Blue Ribbon School - Selected in 2011, 2020
Student Body
Total Students
736 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
8%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
41 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
18:1
National avg.:
Average Class Size
22 students
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Uniform Grades K-8
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
*Above tuition is for parishioner with one student in Grades K–8th
Multi-child discounts
Admissions Director
Mrs. Meghan Waldeck
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
11 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
12 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
Academic TeamBattle of the Books
Chess ClubDrama Theater Club
Engineering For KidsNational Junior Honor Society
Science ClubStudent Council
Arts and Music Programs:
BandChoir
Smiling StringsSpring Musical
School Notes
- School Motto: Challenging Minds, Nurturing Spirits, Living Our Faith Together, in Service
- Welcome to St. Paul of the Cross School, where faith, academic excellence, and community come together. Part of the Park Ridge community since 1925, SPC provides a faith-centered education that challenges students academically while embracing each child as a unique and valued member of our community.
- Serving students from Preschool through eighth grade, SPC is committed to meeting the educational needs of every student. From the moment families enter our campus, they experience a welcoming community grounded in Catholic values, supported by dedicated educators and a strong parent partnership.
- At every grade level, students are encouraged to be active participants in their learning and to serve their community. Together with our families, we strive to involve students in the mission of Jesus through a love of God, compassion for others, and service to their neighbors.SPC students are prepared to thrive beyond eighth grade, with graduates successfully transitioning to the high schools of their choice. Through strong academic foundations, leadership opportunities, and individualized support, students develop the skills, confidence, and character needed for success in high school and beyond.
- In addition to core academic subjects, students participate in Music, Art, Spanish, Physical Education, and Health. Seventh and eighth grade students expand their learning through daily Fine Arts and STEAM electives. Technology is integrated throughout the classrooms and enhanced through hands-on learning in the STEAM Lab and Library Media Center.
- At SPC, the education of each child is a partnership between home and school. Our faculty, staff, and families work together to nurture the spiritual, moral, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth of every student.
- Come visit our campus, meet our students, and experience what makes St. Paul of the Cross School a special place to learn, grow, and belong.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does St. Paul Of The Cross School cost?
St. Paul Of The Cross School's tuition is approximately $7,775 for private students.
What schools are St. Paul Of The Cross School often compared to?
St. Paul Of The Cross School is often viewed alongside schools like Mary, Seat Of Wisdom School by visitors of our site.
Does St. Paul Of The Cross School offer a summer program?
Yes, St. Paul Of The Cross School offers a summer program. Visit their for more information.
What sports does St. Paul Of The Cross School offer?
St. Paul Of The Cross School offers 11 interscholastic sports: Ballet, Baseball, Basketball, Cheering, Cross Country, Flag Football, Football, Soccer, Softball, Track and Field and Volleyball. St. Paul Of The Cross School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for most sports offered.
What is St. Paul Of The Cross School's ranking?
St. Paul Of The Cross School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for: Largest student body and Most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for St. Paul Of The Cross School?
The application deadline for St. Paul Of The Cross School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 6/26/2021
Fantastic school. Still reminisce on my days at SPC.
5 8/28/2019
We had our four children attend this school for the past 15 years and could not have been happier with our decision. It is such a warm community that provides an excellent education. They have been well prepared for high school and have placed in several accelerated or AP classes.
5 4/10/2015
Excellent! So happy we made this decision. Top notch academics plus the Catholic faith based education and a warm and energetic parent community. No regrets.
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