Saint Frances Academy, the nation’s oldest Black Catholic school still in operation, has announced plans for a middle school opening in the fall.
The Baltimore institution, founded in 1828 by Venerable Mary Lange and what would become the Oblate Sisters of Providence—a historic order of Black religious sisters—announced the news on May 21.
"After a few years of discernment, we recognize the void that has been left in East Baltimore in recent years and are stepping forward to ensure that families have continued access to faith-based, academically rigorous education," said the head of school, Dcn Curtis Turner.
“Since our founding by Mother Mary Lange in 1828, our mission has always been rooted in service, justice, and opportunity. The expansion to include a middle school program is a natural and necessary next step."
Saint Frances Academy was originally founded as an all-girls school by the Oblate Sisters to educate Black children, including the enslaved, in an era when educational options were few and far between. Public schools were not established for Black children until the late 19th century, and it was highly discouraged to teach enslaved children to read and write.
The school has undergone several transformations over the years, including a move to the Johnston Square neighborhood in 1871 and a transition into a co-ed high school in the late 20th century. It was then made part of a local Catholic school cluster, but became independent again in 1991.
Known for its academic performance, Saint Frances has maintained a strong college acceptance and graduation rate with affordable tuition costs. The school is also known for its nationally recognized sports teams, which have regularly produced standout professional athletes. Perhaps its most notable alum, well outside of the sports world, is the legendary singer Billie Holiday.
The school’s expansion plan comes amid shifting tides for Catholic education in the Baltimore area, where several schools have closed in the past decade, many of which served the African-American community. Most recently, St. Agnes Catholic School in Catonsville, Maryland, announced it will shutter at the end of the current school year due to declining enrollment and financial shortfalls.
The public school footprint in Baltimore City, which is majority-Black, has also shrunk, with the local school board voting to close three institutions in 2023. Three others were recommended for closure in December 2024.
Saint Frances officials say their new middle school, which has received full state approval, will receive accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and begin with a class of roughly a dozen students.
“The launch of the middle school reflects Saint Frances Academy's unwavering commitment to serving the educational and spiritual needs of Baltimore's youth,” they said.
The new middle school will initially serve a select student population “identified through outreach and community partnerships,” with broader enrollment expected in the future.
Nate Tinner-Williams is co-founder and editor of Black Catholic Messenger.
