Gehlen Catholic School

Gehlen Catholic School is a single campus offering preschool through 12th grade. Gehlen Catholic is a fully accredited system by both the State of Iowa and the Diocese of Sioux City. Gehlen Catholic provides a quality academic, faith, and cocurricular education founded in the school’s century old principles of “faith, values, service and academic excellence.”

Mission
Supported by investments from parishes, alumni, parents, and development, Gehlen Catholic’s mission is to promote openness to God, to provide a quality education and to instill Catholic values in a caring, challenging and prayerful environment.

Enrollment
For the 6th straight year in a row, Gehlen Catholic’s enrollment has grown. Of Gehlen Catholic’s student body, 9% is comprised of non-Catholic children. Growing enrollment has also led to an increase in Gehlen Catholic’s staffing. Currently, Gehlen Catholic has 46 experienced education professionals and 17 support staff.

Curriculum
The curriculum offers daily instruction in both core curriculum and religion. Specialized instruction students are offered in many areas including:
  • Advanced math and science
  • Art
  • Honors classes
  • Journalism
  • Physical education
  • Technology
  • Vocal and instrumental music
Individual needs of students are addressed through the Success Center (resource room), talented and gifted enrichment activities, and a variety of clubs and organizations from TK through 12th grade.

Service Projects

Students, staff, parents, and alumni are involved in a variety of local and international service projects. Service projects include:
  • Advent gift bags for nursing home residents and shut-ins
  • Collections for Christian Needs Center and Mission Honduras
  • Fall Service Day
  • Hosting community-wide Veteran’s Day and 9/11 Prayer services
  • Requests from local service groups and organizations
  • Then Feed Just One (formerly Kids Against Hunger)
Collections are also taken up for international missions around the world, as well as victims of international catastrophes.

Other School Services
The school system offers the following services:
  • Breakfast and hot lunch program
  • Elementary and high school counselors
  • School nurse
Additional specialized services are offered to students on the Gehlen Catholic campus through efforts coordinated with the Northwest Area Education Association. Transportation is available through LeMars Community for rural students and a low cost shuttle system for in-town students.