It is a profound honor to welcome you as we begin this journey together. The four years of high school are arguably the most formative of a person’s life; entrusting us with your child’s education and partnering with us to help them achieve their God-given potential is a responsibility we do not take lightly.
Centered in Jesus Christ, Carmel Catholic is rooted in the charisms of the Carmelites and the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We embrace a tradition of dignity, diversity, and justice, and welcome all into our school community. Our mission is to empower students to become servant leaders filled with zeal for faith and scholarship, shaping the whole being.
A Tradition of Academic Prestige
At Carmel Catholic, students are challenged to reach their highest potential. Our community represents a wide range of learning styles, and we are dedicated to ensuring every individual thrives within our culture of excellence:
• Five-Time Blue Ribbon School: One of only four private schools in the nation to have earned the coveted National Blue Ribbon School award five times.
• A Culture of Achievement: A 100% college acceptance rate, ensuring a clear path to the future.
• Individual Attention: A 13:1 student-to-teacher ratio providing personalized mentorship.
• Driving Academic Heights: Over 50 AP and Dual Credit courses offering a rigorous college preparatory environment.
A New Heart of Campus
Your students enter Carmel Catholic at a historic moment. The Corsair Student Center and Sr. Frances, BVM Atrium are now a reality. Built as the social hub and heart of our campus, these reimagined spaces demonstrate our bold vision for what modern students need: a place to develop healthy relationships, enjoy positive experiences, and prioritize emotional wellness. It is a testament to our commitment to a student experience of the highest quality.
Known, Valued, and Loved
Ultimately, our students come here to work hard. They are met by a dedicated faculty that pushes them toward excellence, but more importantly, they are part of a family where they are known, valued, and loved.
Thank you for choosing the Carmel Catholic community. We are honored to partner with your family and look forward to watching your children grow into leaders of zeal, integrity, and faith.
With gratitude,
Brad Bonham, Ph.D., President
John Ahlgrim, Ed.D. ‘83, Principal
Table of Contents
Academics
Graduation Requirements Course Levels and Placements
Freshman Elective Offerings
Summer Course Work
Summer Courses
Student Services
Required Medical Forms
Wellness Wheel
Technology
Chromebook Ordering Information
Lunch Account Information
Uniforms & Textbooks
Uniform Ordering (Lands’ End)
Uniform Resale Shop
Textbook Ordering
Online Spirit Store
Transportation
Summer Camp & Summer School
Mission & Ministry
Retreat Program
Prayer and Liturgy
Christian Service Program
How to Get Involved in Campus Ministry
Athletics
Athletics Overview
Fine Arts
Audition Information
Summer Program Information
Student Activities
Clubs and Activities
Important Information
Important School Contacts
Important Dates for 2026-2027
Accessing the New Parent Portal
A Bold & Inspired Vision for the Future
A Campaign for our Students
A Bold and Inspired Vision for the Future places Carmel Catholic at the forefront of transforming the student experience. Through the largest philanthropic campaign in the school’s history, three primary pillars focus on student experience, financial accessibility, and sustainability. Learn more about this exciting initiative at carmelhs.org/boldandinspired/ or by scanning the QR code.
Family Garden Now Open
Learn more about how this innovative space for learning and relaxation is already being used by scanning the QR code.
Corsair Student Center and Sr. Frances Dolan, BVM Atrium Opening Fall Semester ‘26
Bartels
Academics
Graduation Requirements
Students are expected to complete a minimum of eight semesters of high school to graduate from Carmel Catholic High School. Any early graduation exceptions will be made by the principal.
Twenty-seven units of credit are required as follows:
Physical Education/Development Requirements
Course Options Include: a traditional PE class, Fitness through Walking, Fitness for Women, Beginning Dance, Intermediate Dance 1 and 2, Advanced Dance Honors, Orchesis, Tap 1 or 2 DC, Cadence Honors, Wind Ensemble Fall, Concert/Marching Band Fall, Yoga, Strength and Conditioning UCP, Advanced Strength and Conditioning H; participation in an entire season on a CCHS-sponsored athletic team (a student may earn a maximum of 0.5 credit exemption per school year, regardless of the number of sports in which they participate; this policy is not retroactive and will take effect beginning in Fall 2026.)
Christian Service and Retreat Program Requirements
Students are required to complete 20 hours of verified Christian Service annually. Attendance at the yearly class retreat is also mandatory: Freshmen and Juniors attend a one-day retreat, while Sophomores participate in an overnight retreat. To meet graduation requirements, Seniors must attend a multi-day overnight retreat. Carmel Catholic facilitates this via the Kairos retreat. Any alternative retreat plans for the Senior graduation requirement must be approved by the Mission & Ministry Office.
Breakdown of the Requirements by Grade
Seniors:
• Credits necessary for graduation: 27
• Required courses: English, Theology, U.S. Government and Civics
• Senior students must take a minimum of six classes, and they have the option of choosing a seventh class or early dismissal during period G.
Juniors:
• Credits necessary for graduation: 27
• Required courses: English, Theology, U.S. History, Mathematics, Biology
• Junior students must take a minimum of seven classes. Sophomores:
• Credits necessary for graduation: 27
• Required courses: English, Theology, World History, Geometry, Chemistry
• Sophomore students must take a minimum of seven classes. Freshmen:
• Credits necessary for graduation: 27
• Required courses: English, Theology, Algebra, Physics, Health
• Freshman students must take a minimum of seven classes.
Course Placement
Carmel Catholic offers a college preparatory curriculum in the following areas:
• Business
• Engineering and technology
• English
• Fine arts
• Mathematics
• Physical education/health
• Theology
• Science
• Social studies
• World languages.
Some departments have various levels of coursework.
Four levels of classes exist:
• College Preparatory (CP) classes are designed to support students in strengthening their foundational skills and/or for those who would benefit from additional reinforcement based on their previous academic achievement.
• Upper College Preparatory (UCP) classes are designed for students whose previous academic performance reflects a proficient level of achievement.
• Honors (H) classes are designed for students who demonstrate a higher level of achievement based on previous academic performance.
• Advanced Placement (AP) and/or Dual Credit (DC) classes offer college-level coursework for the highest-achieving students based on previous academic performance. These classes provide an opportunity for students to earn college credit.
Placement of students into the appropriate level is critical to supporting their progress, learning, and success.
Freshman levels are initially determined by student achievement on the High School Placement Test as well as middle school report cards, grade school standardized testing results, a writing sample completed during the entrance exam, and the optional Carmel Catholic Student Learner Profile. An incoming freshman’s entire body of work is reviewed in order to determine initial core course placement.
Placement for sophomore, junior, and senior courses is determined by the class and department review process in the fall and early spring.
2026 Summer Work
The CCHS Summer Work Packet will be available by June 3 and shared through the Weekly Newsletter as well as posted on Veracross. All incoming freshmen students will be assigned both an English and math summer assignment. These assignments are designed to help students prepare for the 2026–27 school year. The work reinforces essential skills we expect incoming freshmen to have in English and math, helps students acclimate to the academic expectations of Carmel Catholic, and supports the development of positive learning habits that will contribute to a strong start to their high school experience.
While the summer break is an important time for rest and renewal, we encourage families to support students in approaching this work with consistency and care. All summer assignments are due on Friday, August 14, 2026, unless otherwise communicated in the assignment overview.
2026 Summer School
Carmel Catholic High School is excited to offer a variety of summer school courses for students in grades 9–12. By completing a course during the summer, students can create more flexibility in their 2026–27 schedule, whether that means adding an additional elective or enjoying a study hall during one semester. Summer school also provides incoming freshmen an exciting head start at Carmel Catholic, helping them feel confident on campus while connecting with classmates and teachers before the school year begins.
Student Services
School Nurse
The New Parent Portal is the place to find all of the required medical forms needed for your incoming freshman. This includes:
• Child Health Examination Form (required)
• Dental Examination Form (required)
• Eye Examination Form (if coming from out of state)
• Prescription Medication Forms (if needed)
• Over the Counter Medication Forms (suggested)
• Care Plans (if needed)
Records must be submitted via the portal by August 1st.
Wellness Wheel
Our students are the heart and soul of our school. High school comes with many opportunities to learn and grow – their wellness is at the forefront of everything we do. We support our students so they are not just surviving, they are thriving!
Based off the 8 Dimensions of Wellness as defined by SAMHSA
Where You See the Wellness Wheel at Carmel
Emotional Wellness
Managing and regulating emotions, practicing gratitude and mindfulness and maintaining a positive outlook.
The Wellness Center is open to students to drop in and engage with different mechanisms and access to the counselors and school psychologist.
Social Wellness
Developing a sense of connection and belonging while establishing a strong support system.
Students can participate in many different clubs and activities to connect with like-minded peers.
Spiritual Wellness
Deepening faith by exploring beliefs and values while expanding our sense of purpose.
All school Mass, morning Mass, 4-year Retreat Program, Christian Service and Harbor events.
Intellectual Wellness
Recognizing creative abilities and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills.
Support in the REACH center with tutors, study events, and content area teacher support.
Physical Wellness
Practicing healthy habits with a focus on physical activity, safety, and nutrition.
Sports and Camps for all different levels play in addition to Physical Wellness Day activites run by our faculty and staff.
Occupational Wellness
Exploring interests and hobbies and making connections between personal interests and short/long term goals.
The College and Career Resource Center (CCRC) and School counselors walk with students to find a path that fits personally, academically, and financially.
Technology
Chromebook Ordering Information
All Chromebooks need to be purchased through Carmel. Chromebook ordering will open up as we approach the 2026-27 school year. You will be able to access the ordering form in the New Parent Portal. Questions can be directed to TSI@carmelhs.org.
Lunch Account Information
Carmel Catholic partners with MySchoolBucks to provide families an efficient way to pay for lunch. By creating an account, families can view cafeteria purchases, replenish funds, and help students sail through the lunch line.
Families will be able to create an account for their student beginning in June. Additional details and instructions will be shared soon.
As an alternative to loading online, students can load their account with cash or a check made payable to “Quest” at our registers (preferably in the morning). Funds are available immediately with no service fee using cash or check.
Families with general questions regarding the Carmel Catholic cafeteria, as well as parents of students with allergies, may contact Food Service Director Scott Davis at sdavis@carmelhs.org or 847-388-3323.
Uniforms and Textbooks
Lands End Ordering Information:
• The link to order uniforms can be found in the New Parent Portal
• The Carmel Catholic High School Preferred School number is: 9000-7492-3.
• The logo number for uniform tops is: 0241978K
• The logo number for skirts is: 0415432K
Used Uniform and Textbook Sale Information
One day only! Saturday, June 13, 2026 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. at Carmel Catholic High School in the Auxiliary Gym (Entrance C). Purchase used books and uniforms from Carmel families and the Carmel Resale Shop. Cash only!
Textbook Ordering for 2026-2027
The 2026-2027 Book List and sale info will be posted in the New Parent Portal in early May.
Questions? Contact Wanda Pucci in the Carmel Catholic High School Bookstore at wpucci@carmelhs.org.
Transportation
Registration for transportation will open in spring 2026. In the meantime, we will be re-evaluating our current offerings to meet the needs of future students. View current offerings by scanning the QR code. Questions? Contact Jeff Ptacek, Transportation Director, at jptacek@carmelhs.org.
Freshman Experience
June 5th or June 12th, 8:30 a.m 1:30 p.m.
Our Freshman Experience program is designed to help incoming students start high school with confidence and connection. Offered during the summer, this program gives freshmen the opportunity to meet classmates, build new friendships, and begin forming a sense of community before the first day of school. With students joining us from many different grade schools, Freshman Experience is a welcoming and fun way to get to know peers, ease the transition, and feel at home from the very start. Registration is now open in the New Parent Portal.
Audition Dates: Tuesday, August 25 and Thursday August 27 from 6:50-7:50 AM
Liturgical Choir Auditions
Auditions: Ongoing in August and September
Drama/ Musical Theatre - Directors Mrs. Joyce Haqq and Mr. Ariel Mozes, jhaqq@carmelhs.org amozes@carmelhs.org
Musical Auditions: Fourth week of August
Come to the Theatre Kick Off Party in August to learn about audition requirements and/or how to get involved in the crew.
Spring Play Auditions: Late January
String Ensemble - Dr. Paul Nielsen, Director, pnielsen@carmelhs.org
No Audition Required: Speak to Dr. Nielsen or your counselor to add it to your schedule.
Dance Program - Mrs. Kacey Valentine O’Keeffe, Dance Program Director, kokeeffe@carmelhs.org
Honors Dance Level Placement: All students who have prior dance experience are highly encouraged to audition for honors dance placement. Scan the QR code for more details.
Orchesis Dance Company Auditions - Mrs. Kacey Valentine O’Keeffe, Orchesis Artistic Director
All students interested in auditioning for the Orchesis Dance Company should inform a School Counselor to have it listed on their “Course Requests” via Veracross. Auditions will occur in May of 2026 and you will be contacted directly regarding all pertinent Orchesis Audition information.
Visual Art - Director, Mrs. Elizabeth Coppins, ecoppins@carmelhs.org
Portfolio Review: Deadline May 1, 2026
Art 1 UCP is a prerequisite for upper-level art classes. However, students with experience can be placed directly into advanced and honors-level classes through a simple portfolio review process.
Band - Director of Bands, Mr. Tim Barclay, tbarclay@carmelhs.org
Wind Ensemble/Concert Band
Audition materials, along with specific program information, will be emailed in April for all incoming students interested in band. Students will have a month to prepare if they would like a chance to be in Wind Ensemble. Auditions are encouraged, but not required. Students who do not will be placed in Concert Band.
Jazz Ensemble/Jazz Combo
Audition materials, along with specific program information, will be emailed in July to all incoming and current students. Auditions will be held during the third week of school.
Drumline/Percussion Ensemble
All percussionists will be a member of Drumline, and are required to attend Drumline Camp over the summer. Auditions are primarily for instrument placement. Auditions materials will be emailed ahead of time, and take place during the first day of camp
Tips for Keeping Fine Arts in Your Schedule
Take summer classes to open up more free semesters in your schedule for Fine Arts classes. Many incoming freshmen elect to take Health or PE in the summer because it frees up at least one semester for other electives. An added bonus of taking summer school at Carmel is that you make new friends and learn how to navigate the building before the school year officially starts.
As you meet with your school counselors over your four years at Carmel, advocate for what you love! Colleges look very favorably on your commitment to classes and activities that show your passion. Don’t be afraid to let your counselor know from the start how important your fine arts passions are to you!
Fine Arts Classes that Count as a PE Credit
Carmel students are required to take two semesters of PE to graduate. If you are in a fine arts class that counts as a PE credit, then you do not need to sign up for PE. Or you can take summer PE to make more room in your schedule.
The following Fine Arts classes count as a PE credit:
• Cadence show choir (Cadence is a full year course. One year of Cadence fulfills all PE graduation requirements)
• All levels of Dance (One semester of Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced, & Dual Credit Tap fulfill one semester of PE. Orchesis Dance Company Honors is a full year after school course and taking one year of Orchesis fulfills all your PE graduation requirements
• Marching Band (One semester offered each fall; two semesters of marching band fulfills all PE requirements)
Student Activities
Clubs and Activities Available to Freshmen
Extending the High School Experience Beyond the Classroom
Carmel Catholic High School offers more than just academics. Students have an opportunity to express themselves and excel in ministry, athletics, the arts and more. By participating in extracurricular activities, students develop skills such as leadership, working with others, responsibility and self-discipline. The school strongly encourages all students to become involved in at least one extra-curricular activity and in fact, most students participate in several.
Carmel Catholic Clubs & Activities Catalog
The Carmel Catholic Club Guide is your comprehensive resource for exploring the diverse array of extracurricular opportunities available to our students. From academic honor societies and service organizations to special interest clubs and competitive teams, this guide showcases the many ways students can get involved, develop their talents, and build lasting friendships outside the classroom.
Important School Information & Contacts
• School Address: 1 Carmel Parkway, Mundelein, IL 60060
• Main Number: 847-566-3000
• The main entrance (Kathy A. Nemmers Welcome Center) is open on school days from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm.
Calendar Dates for Freshmen Students (Class of 2030)
• Summer School:
Session 1: June 8- June 25
Classes meet Monday-Thursday from 8 am - 12:30 pm **No classes the week of June 29**
Session 2: July 6 - July 23
Classes meet Monday-Thursday from 8 am - 12:30 pm
• Freshman Experience
June 5 or June 12 (only sign up for one)
• Weekly Newsletter - New Parents will begin receiving our school’s Weekly Newsletter (sent on Wednesdays) beginning in early June
• Taking Care of Business Days (Lockers, Photos for IDs, Chromebooks)
July 8 or July 30
• New Parent Orientation
Tuesday, August 11 (evening) - Time: TBD
Additional Calendar Dates for 2026 - 2027
• New Student Orientation (Freshmen and Transfer Students): Tuesday, August 11
• First Full Day of Classes for ALL Students: Wednesday, August 12
• Thanksgiving Break: Wednesday, November 25 - Friday, November 27
• Semester 1 Final Exams: Wednesday, December 16 - Friday, December 18
• Christmas Break: Monday, December 21 - Monday, January 4
• Classes Resume: Tuesday, January 5
• Spring Break: Monday, March 22 - Friday, March 26
• No School: Monday, March 29 (Easter Monday)
• Last Day of Classes: Monday, May 24
• Semester 2 Final Exams: Tuesday, May 25 - Thursday, May 27
New Partent Portal-Veracross
Visit portals.veracross.com/carmelhs/new_parent or scan the QR code below to log in to the New Parent Portal. Log in using the same username and password you used when logging into the Admissions Portal. Once logged in, you’ll be able to view required, recommended, and optional tasks to complete.
If you are a current Carmel parent, you may need to toggle between the Parent Portal and New Parent Portal by clicking on the “column” icon on the top of the log-in page, shown in the image below.
If you have any admissions-related questions, please contact admissions@carmelhs.org; for technical support, please contact veracross@carmelhs.org.
