Saint Joan of Arc Catholic School

Celebrating nearly a century of faith-based education, Saint Joan of Arc Catholic School in Lisle continues to honor its Benedictine roots while embracing the best of modern instruction. Founded in 1927 as a parish school, St. Joan of Arc opened its current building in 1957 and has grown into a thriving community of 380 students today. With an average class size of 18, students receive personalized attention in an environment designed to nurture academic excellence, character, and faith. The school has been honored with the prestigious National Blue Ribbon Award three times, in 1986, 2011, and 2023, recognizing academic performance among the top 15% of schools nationwide. Saint Joan of Arc remains the only school in the Diocese of Joliet to hold this distinction, a testament to its commitment to quality education and community partnership.

Saint Joan of Arc’s approach to learning is grounded in the Science of Reading, a research-based framework that builds strong literacy foundations. Through the Foundations program, students in the lower grades systematically learn phonics and spelling, while all grade levels engage in rich, text-based discussions that develop fluency, vocabulary, and critical comprehension. The recent adoption of Thinking Maps has further enhanced instruction across subjects. This brain-based, visual learning system helps students organize thoughts, analyze information, and communicate complex ideas effectively—a skill set that benefits them in every area of study.

Critical thinking is woven into every classroom experience. Teachers pose open-ended questions, foster meaningful collaboration, and create an atmosphere where curiosity thrives. These practices prepare students not just for academic success, but for lifelong learning and leadership. For students needing additional academic support, the WIN (“What I Need”) Program offers targeted interventions in reading and math. Students are assessed three times a year, and those identified for extra help receive small-group instruction with Tier II or Tier III interventions. Reading specialists and classroom teachers work together to track progress and celebrate growth, ensuring that every child receives the tools and encouragement to succeed.

Outside the classroom, Saint Joan of Arc offers a vibrant range of extracurricular opportunities. Students can explore their interests through athletics, band, choir, drama, robotics, Spanish Club, and academic enrichment programs like Battle of the Books and the Kangaroo Math Competition. Parents play an active role as well, volunteering through the Parent School Organization, Development Committee, and School Advisory Board—strengthening the school’s close-knit sense of community.

The best way to learn more about Saint Joan of Arc Catholic School is by visiting the campus—meeting the dedicated administrators, teachers, and staff, and discovering the warmth of its community. Join the Catholic Schools Week Visit on January 25, 2026 (12:30–2 p.m.) or Saturday Tours on April 11, 2026 (8–10 a.m.). To RSVP, visit https://school.sjalisle.org/open-house. Personal tours are also available upon request.