Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Catholic College Prep School in Chicago
Leo High School stands as a pillar of academic excellence and character development, rooted in its century-old tradition of fostering brotherhood and service. Established in 1926, the school has consistently provided a rigorous college preparatory curriculum alongside a robust Honors Program, empowering students to excel academically, athletically, and ethically. With small class sizes and a dedicated staff, Leo ensures personalized attention, nurturing each students potential to become a leader. Our championship athletic tradition, spanning over 61 titles, reflects a legacy of discipline and teamwork, recognized nationally for producing skilled athletes and scholars.As a Catholic institution, Leo instills the core value of 'Facta Non Verba' (Deeds Not Words), guiding students to act with integrity, care for their communities, and make a positive impact. Through partnerships like the Big Shoulders Fund, Leo strengthens its commitment to accessibility and long-term sustainability, ensuring generations of young men are equipped to succeed in college, careers, and life.
Services
College Prep Curriculum
Honors Program
Athletic Training
Alumni Mentorship
Community Service
Details
- Year established: 1926
Highlights and features
- We provide small class sizes ensuring personalized academic support.
- Our championship athletic tradition builds discipline and teamwork.
- Leo instills ethical leadership through the 'Facta Non Verba' philosophy.
- Alumni network connects students to lifelong brotherhood and opportunities.
- We partner with Big Shoulders Fund for educational sustainability.
What people say
Lifelong friendships
Strong community support
Championship athletic success
Personalized attention
Ethical leadership focus
Services
College Prep Curriculum
Leo's College Prep Curriculum provides rigorous coursework preparing students for higher education, focusing on critical thinking, STEM, humanities, and college readiness skills. Our faculty emphasizes personalized instruction, ensuring students gain the knowledge and confidence needed to excel in competitive university environments.
Honors Program
The Honors Program offers enriched coursework for high-achieving students, featuring deeper exploration of subjects, collaborative projects, and preparation for AP/college-level work. This program challenges students to develop analytical skills while maintaining Leo's commitment to ethical leadership and community service.
Athletic Training
Leo's Athletic Training develops physical skills and character through competitive sports programs. With over 61 championship titles, our coaching staff emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship while maintaining academic standards, preparing student-athletes for college recruitment and lifelong fitness habits.
Alumni Mentorship
Leo's Alumni Mentorship connects students with graduates for guidance in academics, career paths, and personal development. This lifelong brotherhood network offers professional connections, scholarship opportunities, and emotional support, reinforcing Leo's values of community and mutual success.
Community Service
Community Service initiatives integrate Leo's 'Facta Non Verba' philosophy into practical experiences. Students participate in local outreach programs, learning empathy and social responsibility while fulfilling over 210 hours of mandatory service, building compassionate future leaders.
People
Shaka Rawls
Principal
Principal Rawls leads with over 20 years of educational experience, emphasizing brotherhood and academic excellence. A Leo graduate himself, he champions student growth through personalized attention and innovative programs.
Dan McGrath
President
President McGrath oversees institutional strategy with decades of Leo involvement. A former Chicago Tribune sports editor, he strengthens Leo's traditions while driving modern educational advancements and community partnerships.
Kevin McNair
Director of Admissions
Director McNair manages admissions and recruitment, ensuring prospective students understand Leo's unique brotherhood culture. He organizes open houses and shadow days to showcase the school's academic and athletic strengths.
Questions
What educational programs does Leo High School offer?
Leo offers College Prep and Honors Curricula, designed to prepare students for college, military service, or careers with rigorous academics and personalized support.
Are there athletic opportunities available?
Yes, Leo has a championship athletic tradition with over 61 titles in sports like football, basketball, and track, emphasizing discipline and teamwork.
How does Leo integrate community service into its mission?
Leo emphasizes 'Facta Non Verba' (Deeds Not Words), encouraging students to engage in service projects and develop into compassionate, socially responsible leaders.
What scholarships or financial aid options exist?
Leo hosts annual scholarship benefits and partners with organizations like Big Shoulders Fund to provide tuition assistance for deserving students.
What is Leo's approach to student development?
Leo combines academic rigor with character education, fostering brotherhood, leadership, and ethical decision-making through small classes and mentorship.
Videos
Reviews (3)
Ursula P.
Sep 27, 2017
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A great school for our high school aged boys . They have a great staff and principal Mr. Shaka Rawls . They are very in loved in helping boys become educated, and awesome men . Swing by and visit . You will not be disappointed.
Brian Cahill
Aug 17, 2016
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As a Student at Leo in 1989-90, I found I was a big part of a brotherhood of men, men of the future, men with a vision. We carry our message that was taught to us by the Holy Irish Christian brothers, proudly. Facta-non-verba (latin, for deeds, not words) They taught us each and every one of us have the heartbeat of a Lion, and to always stick up for your brother. Black or White, purple or green, and definitely ORANGE AND BLACK!!! There is a very proud history at LEO high school, and your son will feel that pride the minute he walks through those doors.
Daniel Griffin
Aug 07, 2014
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Outstanding eduction received from the first Christian Brothers of Ireland school in the City of Chicago in the late 60's and it remains a premier scholastic bastion today.
