A newly-formed co-op partnership with Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Rochester Lourdes Catholic High School in Rochester and Mankato Loyola Catholic High School in Mankato will position Pacelli students for “accelerated success in the changing landscape of post-secondary education,” Pacelli president Jean McDermott announced on Friday.

As a result, the school would offer “significant advancement in higher education learning opportunities” for the 2018-19 school year.

Pacelli students who qualify will be able to choose from almost 20 Advanced Placement classes taught remotely by qualified and experienced Catholic school teachers from Lourdes and Loyola Catholic high schools. The classes will utilize Google Classroom for communication and work. Class offerings will span math and computer science, English, history and social sciences as well as art.

Upon completion of the courses, students will take the advanced placement examination for potential college credit.

In addition to the rigorous AP class schedule now offered through Pacelli, Lourdes and Loyola, PACC (Program for Advanced College Credit) classes are now also available through St. Mary’s University.

McDermott reported that there would also be a continuation of the joint Austin High School and Pacelli CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) experience in 2018-19. This two-credit class is available to juniors and seniors and is designed to utilize community partnerships that provide an overview of business development and processes.

“Pacelli Catholic Schools are in a constant quest to provide our children with a 360 degree experience, centered on faith and advanced education,” said Laura Marreel, Pacelli High School principal.

Enrollment for the 2018-19 school year is now open.