The Transformation and Success of St. Laurence High School

When Mike O’Shea joined St. Laurence High School in Burbank a decade ago, he didn’t anticipate the extent of changes the school would undergo. As a 2020 graduate and a board member of the alumni association, O’Shea recounted how the school, which had been an all-boys institution since 1961, embarked on a significant journey of transformation. Coming from Lemont, he was among the few from his grammar school at St. Laurence. O’Shea experienced a range of developments, from building renovations to the significant shift to co-education during his sophomore year. This transition was prompted by the closure of the neighboring Queen of Peace high school in the 2017-18 academic year, allowing girls to join St. Laurence.

O’Shea remarked, “Neither my friends nor I expected such a change while we were there. It made the school more enjoyable and greatly enhanced the culture and community aspect, allowing us to interact with former Queen of Peace students.”

According to Mike Madera, vice president of enrollment and communications, ongoing expansions have played a pivotal role in the school’s success. These efforts attracted students from over 90 ZIP codes and 190 grade schools. The school’s enrollment, now at 1,247 students, has more than doubled over the past eleven years. On September 14, the school commenced construction on a new athletic field house, a 34,000-square-foot facility, expected to be completed by fall 2027. “We invest significantly in athletics to ensure that students have suitable spaces to nurture their skills while enjoying their youth,” Madera noted.

Since O’Shea’s graduation, he pursued studies at the University of Notre Dame and started his career at a real estate private equity firm. Meanwhile, St. Laurence continued its renovation efforts, including upgraded hallways, a new gym floor, a teaching kitchen, a refurbished cafeteria, and enhancements to the foyer.

“Beyond building improvements, we provide unique academic opportunities that position our students for success,” stated Joseph Martinez, president of St. Laurence, and a 1999 alumnus.

St. Laurence stands out as the first high school in Illinois accredited with a STEM program. Martinez emphasized the school’s international baccalaureate diploma program and initiatives that enable students to earn college credits.

Sophomore Henry Flanagan shared that his experience at St. Laurence vastly differed from his grammar school days. Over the past year, he became part of the student council, participated in cross-country, wrestling, and rugby football teams, and contributed to launching a club focused on the medical field. Flanagan appreciated the school’s approach: “It’s more about understanding concepts and learning from various perspectives than memorizing facts for tests.”

Engaging hands-on opportunities have enriched Flanagan’s learning experience. He is part of a four-year aviation program, involving field trips, aviation design lessons, and FAA certification preparation. “I hear of others spending four years in gym classes, yet I’m getting to learn how to fly planes—something unique,” Flanagan expressed.

Not all Catholic schools in the Chicago area have achieved such success. Challenges related to federal funding, tuition costs, and low enrollment have led to several closures over the years. Martinez believes the school’s dedication to supporting its students has been a key factor in its continued operation. Fundraising endeavors like The True Viking Campaign aim to secure $12.5 million in investments to further support students. Scholarships ranging from $3,500 to full coverage are available, and tuition discounts are extended to siblings and alumni, as well as first responders.

Madera emphasized the school’s inclusivity, recognizing the diverse socioeconomic and educational backgrounds students hail from. O’Shea’s advice to freshmen focuses on embracing new opportunities: “While stepping out of your comfort zone is challenging, especially at a new school, I encourage taking advantage of everything St. Laurence offers.”