Business Details
Catholic High School in Sterling, IL
Newman Central Catholic High School stands as a beacon of faith-driven education, rooted in the mission of praying, teaching, learning, and serving in Jesus' name. Our institution cultivates a community where students grow in virtue, develop self-discipline, and embrace their God-given potential. With a legacy tied to Cardinal John Henry Newman, we blend academic rigor with spiritual development, preparing students for college and life through a curriculum grounded in Catholic values. Our faculty, recognized for their expertise and dedication, fosters an environment where 88% of students receive tuition assistance, ensuring accessible, high-quality education. As part of the Rockford Diocese and the Three Rivers Athletic Conference, we offer 16 IHSA-sponsored sports and over 20 clubs, nurturing well-rounded individuals. Our strategic location in Sterling, Illinois, serves the Sauk Valley Deanery, extending opportunities to students from Oregon to Tampico.Through daily prayer, weekly Mass, and retreats like Kairos, we prioritize spiritual growth alongside academic excellence. The schools commitment to community service, exemplified by initiatives like the BLIND organization and Newman LIFE Club, instills a lifelong dedication to service. With 22 qualified teachers and a 181-student body, we maintain a personalized approach to education, ensuring each student thrives. Our alumni network, spanning decades of academic and athletic hall of fame inductees, reflects the enduring impact of a Newman education. As a WCEA-accredited institution, we uphold the highest standards of academic and moral integrity, preparing students to lead with faith, integrity, and purpose.
Services
Admissions
Financial Aid
Scholarships
Athletics
Student Life
Faith Formation
Academic Programs
Alumni Relations
School Tours
Career Connections
Highlights and features
- We offer a faith-based education rooted in Catholic values with daily spiritual practices.
- Our qualified teachers provide personalized academic support in a college-preparatory environment.
- We provide 24/7 access to school gear and merchandise for student convenience.
- 88% of students receive tuition assistance, making quality education accessible to all.
- We foster a strong sense of community through 20+ clubs and service organizations.
Associations and certifications
- WCEA
What people say
Incredible place to grow
Culture of constant improvement
Family of faith and scholarship
Supportive teachers and staff
Empowered to reach potential
Services
Catholic Education
Our Catholic education program integrates faith with academic excellence, offering a college-preparatory curriculum grounded in Christian values. Students engage in daily prayer, weekly Mass, and retreats while pursuing rigorous coursework. This approach develops moral character alongside intellectual growth, preparing students for ethical leadership in higher education and beyond.
College Prep Programs
College prep programs provide advanced coursework and personalized guidance to ensure university readiness. With 22 qualified teachers and small class sizes, we offer tailored support for standardized testing, college applications, and career planning. Our graduates consistently achieve high academic success in postsecondary institutions.
Athletics
As a TRAC Conference member, we offer 16 IHSA-sanctioned sports for boys and girls, including football, basketball, and volleyball. Our athletic programs emphasize teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship while competing at regional and state levels. Facilities include modern fields and courts supporting year-round training and competition.
Faith Formation
Faith formation initiatives include weekly Mass, sacramental preparation, and retreat programs like Kairos. Students participate in liturgical ministries, prayer groups, and service projects that deepen their spiritual journey. These programs cultivate lifelong faith practices and community engagement through Catholic teachings.
Alumni Network
Our alumni network connects graduates through events, reunions, and the Academic Hall of Fame. Former students benefit from career resources, networking opportunities, and continued engagement with school initiatives. This network preserves institutional history while supporting current students through mentorship and scholarship programs.
People
Jennifer Oetting
Principal
Jennifer Oetting leads Newman Central Catholic High School with over 15 years of Catholic education administration experience. She focuses on academic excellence and spiritual development, maintaining strong community partnerships while overseeing curriculum implementation and faculty development.
Sean Sandrock
Director of Advancement
Sean Sandrock manages admissions, scholarships, and alumni relations with a commitment to accessibility. He oversees financial aid programs that support 88% of students, ensuring Newman's mission reaches diverse families through personalized outreach and community engagement initiatives.
Justin Stevenson
Athletics Director
Justin Stevenson directs 16 IHSA sports programs, emphasizing character development through competition. With experience in athletic administration, he coordinates schedules, coaches training, and facility management to maintain TRAC Conference excellence while promoting sportsmanship and team unity.
Bethaney Bland
Business Manager
Bethaney Bland oversees financial operations and facility management with expertise in nonprofit administration. She ensures fiscal responsibility while maintaining campus infrastructure, supporting Newman's mission through efficient resource allocation and long-term planning strategies.
Father Thomas Doyle
Pastor
Father Thomas Doyle serves as Newman's spiritual leader since 2023, bringing 15 years of parish experience. Ordained in 2008, he guides faith formation programs at Sacred Heart Church while providing theological direction for school liturgies, retreats, and sacramental preparation.
Questions
What grades does Newman serve?
Newman Central Catholic High School serves students in grades 9 through 12.
Do you offer financial aid?
Yes, 88% of our students receive tuition assistance through financial aid and scholarship programs.
What sports programs are available?
We offer 16 IHSA-sanctioned sports for boys and girls, including football, basketball, volleyball, and track.
How is faith integrated into learning?
Daily prayer, weekly Mass, retreats, and theology courses integrate Catholic values throughout our curriculum.
What college preparation resources exist?
We provide college counseling, AP courses, and standardized test preparation to ensure university readiness.
Are there extracurricular activities?
Yes, we offer over 20 clubs including robotics, debate, theater, and service organizations.