Each day we open our doors to nearly 4,000 students, many carrying with them the challenges of life below the poverty line — food insecurity, home insecurity, violence and fundamental learning deficits. Our mission is to provide them the academic foundation they need while instilling in them love, respect and a sense of self-worth. We are a new non-profit 501(c)3 born out of the recognition that urban Catholic schools are crucial civic assets. Just four years ago, these schools were struggling and many were slated for closure. Today, our network of 14 independent schools are vibrant, growing, and successful with four straight years of enrollment growth, steadily improving financials and stronger student outcomes. The dynamic model supporting the operation of Independence Mission Schools is a critical factor in our organization’s overall success. At the core of our innovative system is a modern operating structure that puts each school at the center of decision-making so they can best serve their unique student communities. Over 80% are non-Catholic, 74% are African-American, 10% are Latino, 13% are Asian or Biracial and 3% are Caucasian. Our drive for high-quality academics is intrinsically linked with our strong Catholic identity. Catholic schools have always known it is about more than what you learn in the classroom, it is about who you become. Building on this legacy, the focus of personal responsibility and development is central to our approach and vital to our students’ success. We employ over 300 mission-driven teachers who have a passion for urban education and the belief that their presence in the classroom doesn't only help a child learn, but can help an entire community move out of poverty.