It Takes a Village: A Visit to Romero Academies

A Mission Rooted in Faith and Partnership

Last month, members of the SCO team had the privilege of visiting Romero Academies — the network of Catholic schools in Cincinnati’s urban core, including Resurrection and Annunication. What we saw was more than a thriving academic community; it was a living ministry—where faith, family, and education come together to prepare students for a bright future. What was clear from the start is that the students have a village that supports them in their education. Family, administration, board members, teachers, volunteers and community members are all invested in students.

When speaking with the leadership team, each member is united in their mission to

“partner with families to form future saints — young people who are not only smart and successful, but also kind, faith-filled, and strong in character.”

Each classroom hums with joy and high expectations. Students are encouraged to not only grow academically but spiritually as well and are discovering who God created them to be.

For many families, Romero Academies represents a new beginning.

“Many of our students come to us having been failed by schools in the past. At Romero, we meet families where they are and show them that this can be different — that our staff is here to love them, support them, and help their children thrive.”

That sense of belonging is evident everywhere — from the smiles that greet students each morning to the hallways adorned with Scripture and art celebrating faith and community.

Overcoming Challenges with Faith and Stewardship

Running a faith-based school in an urban community comes with unique challenges — especially when it comes to funding. It costs about $10,750 per year to educate each student., The EdChoice scholarship, which makes it possible for every student to attend, provides only $6,166 per child. Yet no families pay tuition for their children to attend either of the Romero Academies.

The remaining gap is bridged by generous donors, community members and additional funding through Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs), including Every Child Every Family, which allow supporters to invest directly in students while receiving tax credits.

The administration explained,

“Our top priorities are excellent teachers, strong academics, and the support services that help children learn and grow. We’re constantly balancing what’s needed today with what will sustain our schools for years to come.”

When asked what keeps them motivated on the hardest days, the response was heartfelt:

“Our students and families. When I walk through our schools and see children learning, laughing, and growing — I’m reminded why this work matters so much.”

A Board Member’s Perspective: Ministry in Action

Dan Peters, a board member deeply dedicated to the mission, reflected on what drives his commitment to Romero Academies:

“This isn’t just education — it’s evangelization. Romero Academies gives children the chance to know they are loved, to see their potential, and to believe that faith and excellence can go hand in hand. Supporting this ministry means investing in both the future of our Church and the future of our city.”

Faith at the Center of It All

Throughout the visit, the SCO team witnessed what it looks like when education becomes an act of faith. Teachers and administrators spoke about their calling to serve, echoing the conviction that

“God’s hand is in this work every day — in the students who walk through the doors, in the teachers who pour their hearts into their classrooms, and in the families who trust them with their children.”

Romero Academies stands as a powerful model of what Catholic education can be when rooted in love, excellence, and mission.

As one leader beautifully put it:

“Access and opportunity shouldn’t depend on your zip code — and that’s exactly what we’re working to change every day.”

Many people do not realize the true dedication and investment that schools like Romero make in their students. It takes a fully committed community to provide a quality, student-focused and faith based education. After visiting both Romero Academies in Cincinnati it was clear that the dedication of the staff, administration, and board will result in positive student outcomes for their futures.