Catholic preschool Bishop Baraga Academy to open in Fremont

FREMONT — A new Catholic child care and preschool will open on Aug. 19 in Fremont following a successful study, community-wide inquiry and grassroots fundraising efforts.

The new school, Bishop Baraga Academy , will be located at All Saints Catholic Church at 500 Iroquois Drive in Fremont.

The school will open with child care, beginning at six weeks old, and a preschool for 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds. More than 20 kids have already been enrolled.

The school will provide an academic curriculum focused on Montessori practices where the Catholic faith is foundational to every discipline and will prepare students to be strategic thinkers who can make a difference.

According to Dr. Shari McCarty, executive director/principal of Bishop Baraga Academy, the school will provide a premier education that nurtures each child to reach their highest potential as a disciple of Jesus.

“Statistics reveal that Newaygo County faces a significant shortage of childcare options,” McCarty said. “By offering a Catholic education combined with a Montessori curriculum, flexible scheduling and a future microschool we’re giving families a chance to provide their children with a holistic education that prepares them for life, not just the next grade.”

Bishop Baraga Academy is supported by the four Catholic Churches in Newaygo County: All Saints Parish in Fremont; St. Joseph Parish in White Cloud; St. Bartholomew Parish in Newaygo; and St. Michael Parish, Brunswick - Christ the King Chapel, Hesperia.

David Faber, superintendent of Catholic Schools, said the school will center the “Bridging Faith and Future” strategic plan.

“It is exciting to see the growth and positive energy that has emerged as a result of our strategic plan ‘Catholic Schools: Bridging Faith and Future’,” Faber said. “I am grateful for the collaboration of Catholic community leaders, the parishes of Newaygo County, and the diocese in making this new Catholic school possible.”

The “Bridging Faith and Future” strategic plan for Catholic schools in the diocese calls for examining ways to bring Catholic education to areas where families do not currently have easy access to a Catholic school.

For more information on Bishop Baraga Academy and its programs click here .