Students of the Northern Chautauqua Catholic School are pictured.

As the academic year unfolds, the Northern Chautauqua Catholic School community continues to embody its mission: nurturing young minds and hearts through faith-based education, academic rigor, and a vibrant sense of community.

At the moment, NCCS is the only Catholic school in Chautauqua County. But the financial outlook is not optimistic. Over the past several years, many factors have led to the decline in revenue, but there are many ways to overcome these including but not limited to, donations from local businesses, community support, and the generosity of families and friends.

One local business, Main Street Studios, has already pledged their yearly community donation of $2,500 to the school for this year. “We, as a small, local business, think it is increasingly important to help support the future of educational entities like NCCS,” said Ted Sharon, chief operating officer of Main Street Studios and Venture Productions. “NCCS is a tradition that dates back over 100 years and we should all do our best to help see this tradition continue for many more years.”

Student achievement remains a point of pride for the school. With consistently strong test scores, creative classroom projects, and an emphasis on critical thinking and character formation, NCCS students are thriving. Administrators alike attribute this success to small class sizes, individualized instruction, and a shared commitment to excellence rooted in Catholic values.

Along with teaching strong foundations in math, ELA, Science, and Social Studies, NCCS is one of the few schools in the region to have a dedicated Spanish class for all students grades 1-8. This allows for the ability for each student to master a foreign language before entering high school and gives them a large advantage that they can take with them for the rest of their lives.

“Our students continually show that when faith and learning come together, great things happen,” said Principal Paul Pinto. “We’re incredibly proud of how they challenge themselves and support one another every day.”

Beyond the classroom, Northern Chautauqua Catholic’s athletic and musical programs are on the rise. These programs have seen increased participation and achievement across multiple avenues, with students learning not only the value of teamwork and discipline but also the joy of representing their school community.

“Our student-athletes play with heart and integrity,” said Elisha Dulak, NCCS’ girls volleyball coach. “They’re learning lessons that go far beyond the scoreboard — about perseverance, sportsmanship, and faith in action.”

Students in grades four to eight are currently deep in the rehearsal process for their current musical production of “Sister Act, Jr.,” which will be performed Nov. 6 to 8.

The musical program at NCCS has been thriving for the past 5 years under the watchful eye of Musical Director and Head of Advancement, Janie Villella-Sharon. “After two decades of directing and choreographing musicals at the professional and school level you would think that nothing could surprise me, but with every NCCS show these students continue to bring new life and a new sense of magic to every production,” stated Villella-Sharon. “The dedication and perseverance of every student is like none I have ever seen.”

Perhaps what sets Northern Chocolate Catholic apart most is its family spirit. Parents, grandparents, and alumni remain deeply involved — volunteering in classrooms, organizing events, supporting afterschool programs, and strengthening the sense of belonging that defines the school community.

As the school looks toward the future, new initiatives are being explored to enhance academic programs, expand extracurricular opportunities, and continue building a welcoming, faith-filled environment where every student can flourish.

“Together, we’re building something truly lasting — for our students, our families, and our faith community,” Pinto said.

With a dedicated staff, supportive families, and students eager to learn and lead, Northern Chautauqua Catholic School stands ready to continue its proud tradition–preparing the next generation for success, service, and discipleship.

“The partnership between our families and our faculty is what truly makes our school special,” Pinto said. “We’re united by the same goal: to help every child grow in faith, knowledge, and character.”

To support Northern Chautauqua Catholic School or to register a new student — even for this year year, visit https://www.nccschool.us/, or the school’s Facebook page or stop by any school day for a tour.