Missoula Catholic Schools, a vibrant network of college-preparatory institutions, is experiencing a period of growth and achievement, and continues to shine as a top choice for families seeking academic excellence, character formation and individualized attention. With new leadership, national-level student accomplishments and expanded tuition assistance, MCS invites families to discover the difference of Catholic education — open to all, regardless of faith.
Committed to the formation of young people of compassion, conscience, competence and community, MCS includes St. Joseph Elementary & Middle School and Loyola Sacred Heart High School, the only Catholic secondary institution in western Montana. During the 2024-25 school year, Loyola Sacred Heart celebrated its 152nd year of providing rigorous, values-based education, with a 100% graduation rate and more than $9.2 million in scholarships awarded to the class of 2025.
Making moves
The academic year also brought new faces to leadership positions at MCS. Chris Clevenger has been appointed as the new principal of St. Joseph Elementary and Middle School. Clevenger, an alumnus of and parent at Loyola Sacred Heart, brings 26 years of experience in Montana’s public education system. Additionally, the Early Education Program will be led by Candy Tucker, who has 17 years of experience in early childhood education, with 11 of those years spent at MCS. As the new director, Tucker’s focus is on nurturing young learners.
Student success in academics, sports and extracurricular activities
Student achievements across MCS showcase a high level of academic and extracurricular engagement. Two middle school students have qualified for the 2025 Varsity and Junior Varsity National Championships following strong performances at a national academic competition, securing first and second places in their division. Steven Klimkiewicz will represent the school at the International History Olympiad in Paris this summer, and Ruby Wang recently competed in the National Spelling Bee.
In addition, the Loyola Sacred Heart Speech and Debate Team has earned its 40th championship title. The MCS bands and choirs have snagged top ratings at both district and state music festivals for two consecutive years.
The athletic department at Loyola Sacred Heart has also achieved notable success, with three consecutive Class B State Championships in boys basketball, state titles in track and tennis, and nine student-athletes signed to compete at the college level.
Personalized attention in the classroom
Missoula Catholic Schools provides a personalized educational experience with a low student-teacher ratio of 10-to-1 at Loyola Sacred Heart and 13-to-1 at St. Joseph. The school system also offers significant financial aid and tuition support. New families enrolling for the first time are eligible for a tuition incentive of $1,000 for Loyola Sacred Heart and $500 for St. Joseph.
Now enrolling for fall 2025
Applications are currently being accepted for the fall 2025 academic year for students from ages 2 through grade 12. The Early Education Program serves children ages 2 to 8, with summer program options available.
MCS welcomes students of all faiths and follows a Jesuit tradition that emphasizes community service and academic rigor as essential for inspiring students.
Families interested in learning more or scheduling a tour can visit missoulacatholicschools.org or contact the school at 406.549.1290.
