Chesterton Academy of The Divine Mercy approved as a new Catholic high school in the Diocese of Springfield
New classical Catholic high school plans to open in Fall 2027 to serve families across Western Massachusetts
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Chesterton Academy of The Divine Mercy has officially received approval from the Most Reverend Bishop William D. Byrne of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield to operate as a Catholic high school in Western Massachusetts, with plans to open to its inaugural freshman class in Fall 2027.
The approval marks a major milestone for the school’s founding board and supporters, who have been working to establish a joyfully Catholic, classical high school rooted in faith, truth, beauty, and academic excellence for families across the region.
Chesterton Academy of The Divine Mercy will become part of the growing network of Chesterton Schools Network schools inspired by the educational vision of G.K. Chesterton. The school will offer a rigorous classical curriculum centered on the Catholic intellectual tradition, daily prayer, sacramental life, and the formation of virtuous young men and women.
“This approval is both a tremendous blessing and a profound responsibility,” said Jesse Mayhew, President of the Board of Directors for Chesterton Academy of The Divine Mercy. “We are deeply grateful to the Bishop and the Diocese of Springfield for their trust and support as we work to build a faithful, joyful, and authentically Catholic high school for families in Western Massachusetts. We believe students are hungry for truth, beauty, goodness, and a deeper sense of purpose, and we are excited to help form the next generation of saints and leaders.”
The school is currently in its planning and development phase, focusing on community outreach, enrollment growth, fundraising, and securing a permanent campus location ahead of its anticipated opening in Fall 2027.
Founding families and supporters say the school aims to meet a growing desire among Catholic families for an education that integrates strong academics with a vibrant spiritual life and meaningful community.
Additional announcements regarding admissions events, informational sessions, and opportunities to support the school’s mission will be shared in the coming months.
For more information about Chesterton Academy of The Divine Mercy, visit Chesterton Academy of The Divine Mercy.
