Saint Joseph's Community of Learners Program
At Carmel Catholic High School, we are proud to offer our Saint Joseph's Community of Learners Program, an inclusive initiative designed to help students with intellectual disabilities thrive academically, socially, and spiritually. Rooted in Catholic values, the program provides personalized support in a welcoming and faith-filled environment where students can grow in their academic abilities and relationship with God. Alongside academic development, we emphasize the importance of compassion, respect, and service, fostering a community where students experience spiritual growth, engage with others, and build a deeper connection to their faith.
The program draws its name and inspiration from Saint Joseph, the foster father of Jesus and Patron of the Universal Church. Saint Joseph’s quiet strength, compassion, and unwavering care for those entrusted to him mirror the spirit we bring to this initiative. Naming the program after Saint Joseph reflects our deep belief that every student is a unique and beloved creation of God, deserving of dignity, respect, and the opportunity to thrive. Like Joseph, we are called to be protectors and advocates, ensuring that every learner finds a home within our community and is celebrated not merely for what they accomplish, but for who they are.
What We Offer:
- Inclusive Education: Students engage in general education classes alongside their peers, with tailored support to meet their unique learning needs. This inclusive approach ensures students feel valued and part of the Carmel Catholic High School community.
- Peer Mentorship: Each student is paired with a trained peer mentor who fosters personal relationships that enhance academic achievement and social integration. Peer mentors help ensure success in classwork and help students develop meaningful friendships.
- Individualized Curriculum: Instruction is customized to each student’s academic and personal goals, with small group or one-on-one learning opportunities. We work closely with students to address their specific needs and help them reach their full potential.
- Community Engagement: Students are encouraged to participate in classroom activities, school events, and social opportunities with their peers. They develop meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging within the school community.
- Catholic Faith Formation: Our program is deeply rooted in Catholic teachings, helping students grow in their faith while incorporating values like service, compassion, and integrity into their daily lives.
Program Outcomes: Students will receive a Certificate of Completion from Carmel Catholic High School upon successfully completing the four-year program. This certificate represents their academic progress and the personal growth that comes from being part of an inclusive and nurturing faith community.
How to Apply: To begin the application process, prospective students and families are invited to complete the Saint Joseph's Community of Learners Inquiry Form. Once submitted, our dedicated Student Services team will guide you through every step of the admissions and enrollment process, ensuring a smooth transition into the Carmel Catholic High School community.
We look forward to welcoming your family to Carmel Catholic High School, where every student is embraced as part of our Community of Learners—a place to grow, succeed, and become the best version of themselves, grounded in faith and values.
Admissions Process
Step 1: Review Program Eligibility Criteria and Submit the Inquiry Form
- Review Program Eligibility Criteria: Review the eligibility criteria prior to submitting the inquiry form.
- Submit the Inquiry Form: Complete and submit the Saint Joseph's Community of Learners Inquiry Form and any required documentation outlined within the form. Once submitted, a member of our Student Services team will contact you to discuss your inquiry, determine if any further steps are needed, and guide you through the relevant aspects of Step 2 and Step 3 if applicable.
Step 2: Engage in the Admissions Process (if applicable)
If the inquiry form and initial discussions suggest that more information would help with admission consideration—and there is still space in the program—the Student Services team will help coordinate the following:
- Evaluation Process: The Student Services team will review all submitted documents and feedback to determine eligibility for the Saint Joseph's Community of Learners program.
- Submit Additional Documentation: Provide a completed evaluation form from the student's current 8th-grade teacher to help us understand their academic and personal needs.
- Participate in an Interview: A meeting will be scheduled with the student, their family, and members of the Carmel Catholic Student Services team to discuss the application.
- Observation of Current Educational Setting: Our team will observe the student in their current school environment to assess their learning needs.
- Schedule a Shadow Day: The prospective student will spend a day at Carmel Catholic High School, experiencing campus life and interacting with peers.
Admission Decision Notification: Following the evaluation, the Student Services team will inform the family of the student's admission decision for the Saint Joseph's Community of Learners Program.
Step 3: Complete Online Enrollment (if applicable)
Acceptance: If accepted, a Carmel Catholic Admissions team member will contact the family with detailed instructions on completing the online enrollment for the 2025-26 school year.
Ready to start the process?
Click the link below to complete the Saint Joseph's Community of Learners Inquiry Form and begin the application process! Our team will guide you through the rest.