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About 

The Academy of St. Benedict the African has a history full of

love, hope, spirituality and excellence. 

The Academy of St. Benedict has served the West Englewood community since 1901 when a small school was built on the site. Since then, the school building has grown and changed to meet the needs of students and families in the neighborhood.  

Today, we at The Academy of St. Benedict the African continue to thrive as a Catholic school that loves our students and leads them to be successful in academics and in life.

Our patron, St. Benedict the African, was a former slave who devoted himself to a Franciscan order and became known for his holiness, wisdom, patience, generosity, and humility – virtues that we instill in our students today. As the only Catholic school in West Englewood, we remain firmly committed to our mission. Our spirit has been a force of stability, spirituality, love and hope in the community and we look forward to welcoming your family into our community as we continue to thrive.

Little boy reaching for a bubble

The mission of The Academy of St. Benedict the African is, in partnership with our families, centered in Christian values to encourage the spiritual, social, intellectual, emotional, and physical development of our young students.

We aim to provide a caring, disciplined environment while nurturing the pursuit of excellence and celebrating the diversity of our talents, pride of accomplishment, self-discipline and respect for others.

Our school is certified by the Illinois State Board of Education and the Archdiocese of Chicago Office of Catholic Schools. We are accredited by AdvancEd.

Meet Our Principal

Jennifer J. Farrand, Principal

BA Elementary Ed - Springfield College

MEd. Administration and Supervision - Loyola University

EdD Candidate - 3 Cs: Curriculum, Culture and Communities -Loyola University

Principal Farrand and students

Faculty & Staff

A teacher helping a student

Our faculty and staff are passionate about working with children. They bring their enthusiasm and love for teaching to the classroom every day, creating a positive and engaging environment for our students. We are proud to have a team that is dedicated to helping children learn and grow, and we believe that their commitment to education is what makes our school special.

Community Outreach

The Academy of St. Benedict the African brings together the school and local community with it's aim to foster a sense of unity and create a positive impact on the community.

Our school engages in various annual activities to help bridge the gap between the school and the community, promoting a better understanding of each other's needs.

Students standing on a grass field in the shape of a cross
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