What is the Curley Difference?

The difference between Archbishop Curley’s approach and that of other schools boils down to Curley’s focus on the individual. This focus extends to our academic, co-curricular and technology program and is a direct reflection of our school’s Franciscan character. Curley’s size, a community of 550 students, lends itself to providing the young men in our care with all of the opportunities of a much larger school while maintaining a community where every student is valued and known by name.

What does it mean to be a Franciscan school?

Archbishop Curley is the only all-male Franciscan high school in the city of Baltimore and the state of Maryland. This means that we are shaped by the example of St. Francis of Assisi. Commonly known for his ministry to the poor and his love of nature, St. Francis tried to make real the experience of Jesus Christ in the lives of those he met. The Franciscan Friars who minister at Curley and the men and women with whom they work all strive to instill the spirit of St. Francis.

What is Curley looking for in an applicant?

Archbishop Curley seeks a young man who is achieving to his academic potential, has an interest in participating in our co-curricular program, has a deep respect for the rich tradition of Archbishop Curley High School, is dedicated to contributing positively to the culture of the “Curley Family” and strives to become a great man.

What is the cost of tuition and is financial aid available?

Tuition for the 2024-25 school year is $18,650. Each family has the opportunity to apply for financial aid and Curley works hard to provide aid to families in need. Last year alone we distributed more than $1 million in aid. Families applying for financial aid must complete the Application for Financial Aid through FACTS. All students who list Curley as first or second choice when registering for the HSPT, are eligible for all merit based academic scholarships, endowed scholarships, general grants, athletic grants and instrumental music scholarships.

What does the typical academic schedule look like for a freshman student?

The typical freshman schedule consists of six full credit and two half credit courses. The core curriculum for freshmen consists of courses in Theology, English, Social Studies, Foreign Language, Math and Science. Curley operates on a six-day cycle schedule with rotating class periods. Freshmen have two study hall periods built into the six-day cycle.

What is the average class size?

The average class size at Curley is 17 students.

How does Curley incorporate technology into the classroom?

Archbishop Curley utilizes a Bring Your Own Device Program (BYOD). All students are required to use a laptop daily, in both the classroom and at home. This BYOD learning environment has enabled our faculty to integrate emerging technology into our students’ educational experience. With the immersion of a laptop into the daily curriculum, the classroom has shifted to a student-centered model. The BYOD program seeks to develop in our Curley men the skills critical to success at both the collegiate and professional levels in the 21st Century. Critical thinking, problem solving, and the ability to work collaboratively are some of the skills that are emphasized in an environment designed to stimulate creativity and innovation.

 

How are academics at Curley structured?

ACADEMIC OVERVIEW

Archbishop Curley High School’s rigorous academic program challenges each student to develop the skills necessary for success in the college or university of his choice.  Our dedicated faculty guide students through the learning process and help them maximize their potential.  Curley’s required courses provide a firm foundation for future success, while introducing students to elective courses designed to open minds to future college majors and careers.

In the Franciscan education model, each Curley Man is engaged in an active learning environment that asks him to think, discuss, investigate and create.  In these ways the student accepts more responsibility to grow in knowledge, thus preparing him to be a lifelong learner.

OUR COLLEGE PREPARATORY PROGRAMS

St. Bonaventure Scholars Program

For an elite group of students, the St. Bonaventure Scholars Program offers an academic challenge beyond the honors curriculum. The St. Bonaventure Scholars program is a comprehensive experience that combines high-level academic coursework with opportunities and experiences that go beyond the classroom. A Capstone Project, the Days of Discovery program, and out-of-state college visits provide a rich and well-rounded experience for students who earn acceptance to this program.

Honors Program

Archbishop Curley’s Honors Program is designed to challenge highly talented and motivated students to pursue Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors level courses. Archbishop Curley maintains relationships with several local colleges and universities, encouraging students to earn college credits through dual-enrollment opportunities.

St. Anthony Program

The St. Anthony Program is a multifaceted college preparatory program intentionally designed for young men  who require adaptive learning practices due to academic challenges, a diagnosed learning difference, or different learning styles. This program is meant to support students and provide its graduates with the tools necessary to succeed at the next level of education.

 

How do families schedule a visit?

A Friar For A Day visit is the best way to experience all that Curley has to offer. Schedule a Friar For A Day visit by creating an account and registering for a convenient time using our interactive calendar.

Does Curley accept transfer students?

Archbishop Curley accepts transfer students for matriculation in its sophomore and junior classes. Curley will accept senior transfers only in special circumstances and will review these applications on an individual basis. It is expected that transfer students will begin their tenure at Curley at the beginning of the school year, but the school will in some cases allow students to transfer at the end of the first quarter or at mid-year.

What is the student dress code?

The student dress code at Curley consists of dress or khaki pants, a solid-colored dress shirt, dress shoes, a tie/bowtie. A sport coat is required from October through April.

Does Curley provide College Counseling services?

Archbishop Curley features two full-time college counselors and provides comprehensive college counseling services to all students. On average, 99% of our graduates continue on to college, and last year the Class of 2024 received $17 million in merit scholarships from 164 four-year colleges and universities in 17 states. In recent years Curley graduates have been accepted into some of the nation’s finest universities including The United States Air Force Academy, Brown, Clemson, Arizona State, West Point, Columbia, Notre Dame, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech, Maryland, Morehouse, Virginia, Howard, Johns Hopkins and many others.

What kinds of activities can my son participate in after school?

Archbishop Curley offers a comprehensive athletics program featuring 28 teams in 14 sports, an award-winning fine arts program and a multitude of clubs, intramural sports, and students organizations. Students are encouraged to participate in multiple co-curricular activities and involve themselves in school life.

Does Curley offer the opportunity for students to take Advanced Placement courses?

Archbishop Curley currently offers eleven A.P. level courses for students desiring a more intensive study of the core subjects. These courses provide students with a college level curriculum that will challenge them as well as offer the opportunity to receive college credit. Each year we will look to expand o these courses for students to help them develop college skills, time management, critical thinking, scholarly writing and give them a head start in college.