Students with Special Needs

Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Bridgeport are educational communities committed to academic excellence and faith development, which is guided by the belief that we are all created in the image and likeness of God. All students are deserving of the opportunity for the best Catholic education possible.

Learning Leads to Independence

The Saint Catherine Academy is a state approved special education school for students impacted by autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Saint Catherine Academy was founded in 1999 on the principle that each person is valued.

The mission of the Academy is to help in the development of each student, so that they reach their potential. They serve students ages 5-21 of all faiths who seek an alternative educational placement. Students are placed by their home districts or privately by their parents. For more information please call (203) 540-5381 or visit their website.

The Academy is part of the Saint Catherine Center for Special Needs which serves as the centralized resource for people with disabilities in the Diocese. Additional resources are available at St. Catherine Center.

Becoming Better Prepared


We believe that students can transition from former environments to one that encourages greater independence. In our nurturing, learning community, students develop positive self-esteem and self-confidence while acquiring the necessary skills to reach their potential for independent living or a return to a mainstream environment.

  • All children have the capacity to learn.
  • Inclusion is a philosophy not a program.
  • Diversified education programs reflect the implementation of the philosophy of inclusion.
  • All learners benefit from a more diverse student population by enriching the learning experience and making each student a more complete human being.
  • Catholic schools are student centered with instruction focused on the needs of students.
  • Teaching in a Catholic School is a ministry not a vocation.
  • Catholic School educators should desire the opportunity to work with students with all learning styles.
  • Respect for Life is evident in Catholic Schools that are inclusive.
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