Our detailed Iowa Assessment overview provides a closer look at grade-level percentile rankings and subject-area strengths across grades 3–8. Highlights include exceptional ELA performance in Grades 7 and 8, strong core composite achievement school-wide, and continued growth in mathematics and science. We are incredibly proud of the hard work of our students and teachers as they continue building a strong academic foundation rooted in faith and lifelong learning.

At SHCS, faith formation remains at the heart of everything we do. Our 2025 Religious Education Performance Report reflects continued growth in Catholic identity, religious knowledge, virtue development, and faith integration throughout our school community. We are especially encouraged by the strong alignment between faculty belief and behavior, student growth in prayer and virtue, and the overall upward trajectory of our Catholic Identity Score over the past five years. Thank you for partnering with us in helping our students grow as disciples of Christ.

We are proud to recognize our middle school students who earned First Honors and Second Honors during the fourth quarter of the 2025–2026 school year. Their commitment to academic excellence, perseverance, and personal responsibility reflects the dedication and hard work taking place each day within our classrooms. Congratulations to all of our honored students and families on this outstanding accomplishment!

We are also excited to celebrate the students who earned Full Year Middle School Honors for the 2025–2026 school year. This recognition reflects sustained academic excellence and consistent dedication throughout the entire year. We are incredibly proud of these students for their hard work, leadership, and commitment to using their God-given gifts to the fullest.

As we prepare for another eventful school year, we are thrilled to welcome several new faculty and staff members to the Sacred Heart Cathedral School community while also celebrating internal transitions among current team members. Each of these educators and staff members brings unique gifts, professional experience, and a deep commitment to Catholic education. We are grateful for the many talented individuals who have answered the call to serve our students and families, and we look forward to the many ways they will help our school community continue to grow in faith, excellence, leadership, and love for Christ.

This summer also marks the beginning of two significant campus improvement projects made possible through the generosity of our school community. Installation of our new STREAM Innovation Lab is underway this week, creating an innovative space where students will engage in hands-on learning, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. In addition, construction of our new playground is scheduled to begin the first full week of July, weather permitting. These projects reflect our continued commitment to providing outstanding opportunities for our students to learn, grow, and thrive.

As we enter the summer months, I encourage each of our families to take time to rest, recharge, and enjoy meaningful time together. While summer offers a slower pace, it also provides a beautiful opportunity for continued growth in faith, family, service, and learning. Thank you again for the trust you place in Sacred Heart Cathedral School and for the countless ways you support our mission throughout the year. Please continue to keep our school community, especially our new faculty and staff members, in your prayers as we prepare for another wonderful year ahead. May God continue to bless each of you and your families with a joyful, safe, and restful summer season.

In Christ,

Valerie Hanks
Principal
Sacred Heart Cathedral School