The Diocese of Raleigh Office of Education supports 28 elementary and middle schools and one high school. Located in Alamance, Durham, Orange, Wayne, Carteret, Craven, Wake, Nash, Pitt, Onslow, New Hanover, Cumberland and Moore Counties, the schools of the Diocese of Raleigh supports a total enrollment of 9563 for the 2023-2024 school year.
Welcome to the Diocese of Raleigh Catholic Schools! With 28 schools already in operation, the Diocese is in a period of growth. Over the past ten years, the diocesan-wide enrollment has increased over 10.2%, with school year 2022-23 reaching the highest enrollment to date. As the Diocese prepares for growth and expansion, it is of the utmost importance that schools already in operation continue to adhere to the core philosophies that distinguish Catholic schools. This includes a deep and comprehensive commitment to a faith-based education, and it means striving to make a Catholic education accessible for families who desire it.
The Office of Education serves the ministry of Catholic schools in the Diocese of Raleigh. Our mission is to ensure that Catholic Identity remains the foundation of all we do. In partnership with pastors and school administrators, the Office of Education supports schools as they form disciples and scholars, strengthen families in faith, and grow equitable school communities that are affordable, accessible and welcoming.
“In the Diocese of Raleigh, the educators in our Catholic schools bring unmatched dedication and commitment to their vocation. The teachers, coaches, and support staff are great gifts to the families that they serve. Together, we help students see the beauty of our Catholic faith as an integral part of education and of life and to put that faith into action. Students in our Catholic schools are building a foundation for life.”
Most Reverend Luis Rafael Zarama, JCL
The diocese is in a period of growth. Over the past two years, the diocesan-wide enrollment has increased over 10.2%, with school year 2022-23 reaching the highest enrollment to date. As the diocese prepares for future growth and expansion, it is of the utmost importance for the Office of Education to provide the necessary supports our schools will need to continue to nurture and advance the mission and core philosophies that distinguish Catholic schools. This includes a deep and comprehensive dedication to faith-based education and a commitment to making Catholic education affordable and accessible for families who desire it.
“In partnership with pastors and administrators, the Office of Education is dedicated to the evangelizing mission of Catholic education. We are excited about the future of Catholic schools in the Diocese of Raleigh and look forward to advancing the shared vision of our schools now and in the years to come. Our team will continue to focus on serving our pastors, principals, teachers, and families as we work in partnership to form scholars and disciples. We welcome families, teachers, and administrators who share our vision, our desire to advance the mission and a passion for service to the ministry of Catholic education in the Diocese of Raleigh.”
Superintendent of Schools
An education rooted in Catholic teachings and traditions.
A rigorous academic curriculum that nurtures college and career readiness.
A supportive, engaging, and welcoming community.
Students in the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Raleigh are provided with Christ-centered educational opportunities that prepare them for their chosen vocation. Our schools provide students with a faith-based education through the integration of Catholic Social Teachings and Gospel values. The format for religious education in grades K-8 was designed to encourage students to see how their religion connects to a fast-paced, digitally driven world.
The diocese’s standards draw from the state of North Carolina’s standard course of studies, diocesan expectations, and educational research. Teachers integrate the academic curriculum with faith-based learning to maximize instructional time and to facilitate the transfer of skills and understanding.
Catholic schools educate the whole child and foster connection to the community around them. In addition to the core academic areas, visual and fine arts, athletics, and extra-curricular activities, students in the Diocese of Raleigh serve as the hands and feet of Christ by engaging in age-appropriate Corporal Works of Mercy.
‘Immersed’ Catholic school has colorful part in coastal tradition
WILMINGTON – The school stage was ready for its historic moment. A podium was flanked by two pink azaleas, potted in gold foil.
Lewis Award and OLL School honor Christine Brennan
RALEIGH – Her family was in the front row. Her 3rd grade students sat an aisle over and a few rows back.
8th graders gather at the cathedral
RALEIGH – Eighth grade students from the Diocese of Raleigh’s Catholic schools met at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral April 29 for Mass and an outdoor