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"The Palace,"
from Nintendo's Destiny of an Emperor
The students are about 99% Chinese, and it seems that all have at least one Chinese parent. Many live in the neighborhood, although some travel from neighboring Bridgeport and other areas.
Students receive not only a regular grammar school education during their years at St. Therese, but are given lessons in Chinese reading, speaking, and writing most days of the week. This is to preserve the heritage they risk losing from being immersed in U.S. culture.
Most of the students are very Americanized in terms of the music they like, the programs they watch, the foods they enjoy, and the stars they idolize. And yet they are clearly rooted in their Chinese heritage, having a strong bond among each other and to the traditions of their culture.
The school itself is built for only 300 students, and has stayed at 90% or more of that capacity for some years now.. Of many schools in the Archdiocese of Chicago, St. Therese is actually solid financially. The people of Chinatown, both benefactors and former students, recognize how unique St. Therese is, and do "put their money where their mouth is," thus maintaining the financial stability of the place.
Those who visit St. Therese often find themselves pleasantly surprised by the experience -- many don't realize what a well-kept "secret" the place is. They often find the experience unique, the students disarmingly friendly and likeable, and express a desire to visit again.
247 W. 23rd St.
Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 326-2837
Principal:
Mr. Wilson Reyes
Asst. Principal:
Mrs. Therese Lussem
July 24, 2000
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Last updated
March 28, 2004
