The Catholic-Inner-City Schools Education Fund was established in 1980 by the late Archbishop Joseph L. Bernardin. With the idea that education is the best way to break the cycle of poverty, CISE was established as a ministry to children in poor neighborhoods as a means for overcoming their unique challenges by giving them knowledge, discipline and faith that are the cornerstones of Catholic Education.

Today, CISE provides a broad scope of support to the schools. Most importantly, funding from CISE makes a quality Catholic education affordable for families in need. Once in the schools, the children receive an excellent faith-based education consisting of discipline, strong curriculum and caring individual attention. CISE provides money to help with tuition costs, academic enrichment programs, operating expenses, intervention professionals and capital improvements.

CISE serves a diverse population of 1,350 students in grades K-8 at eight urban Catholic schools as well as 221 CISE alumni attending local Catholic high schools. Most through scholarships funded by targeted donations from supporters of CISE.

In 2006, the CISE schools began serving children receiving Ohio EdChoice vouchers. 552 voucher students are enrolled for the 2009-2010 academic year.

The Need for Funding

Tuition and support from the parishes, which have limited ability to provide funding due to the economic status of their parishioners, do not provide sufficient operating funds. Therefore, a subsidy of over $1 million annually is provided to these schools by the archdiocese. While it is the largest single item in the archdiocesan budget, it is not enough to keep the schools in operation, hence the need for CISE.

CISE is funded through the generosity of individuals, corporations and Foundations who share in the opinion that a quality education is vital to providing underprivileged children with hope for a brighter future. 88% of all CISE students live below the poverty level and could not afford a Catholic school education without help from generous donors just like you. Bright futures begin at CISE. Your donation will help! Donate Now

Our Results

The success of the CISE program extends beyond our eight grade schools. Through a donor-directed high school grant program, CISE graduates receive assistance to continue their education at a Catholic high school in their area. We are proud to report that 99% of the high schools seniors who receive a CISE grant graduate, and of these, 88% go on to college. Our students are now leading local businesses and serving our community as firefighters and medical professionals. They are working in the fields of engineering, sales, construction and technology, just to name a few. They are making a difference!

Molly Beck is an 8th grade student at Holy Family. Click here to read the speech she eloquently presented at the 2009 CISE Campaign Wrap-Up Event.