In Gratitude
In 2024, the first application from the Bismarck & Mandan area was submitted to join the Chesterton Network; in November of 2025, parents were praying the Memorare for intentional schooling options with a small, strong community to emerge; in December, a group of parents started meeting regularly to see if opening a Chesterton academy would be possible; in January, we were accepted to the Chesterton Schools Network; in February, three members of our community joined dozens of other parents and educators for the Chesterton Discover Days conference to learn how to start a Chesterton Academy; in March, the Mandan Classical Schools were established. Today, we look back at the milestones we have met - in gratitude for the countless hours given by so many to make this dream a reality.
12.22.25 - Our first meeting with the Chesterton Schools Network
12.23.25 - Our application for Cohort 2027 is submitted
1.16.26 - We receive an initial pledge of $90,000 for the success of the Mandan Classical Schools
1.26.26 - The first meeting of the Exploratory Committee - 7 parents & educators working to establish the Mandan Classical Schools
2/10-12.26 - Three members of our committee join 23 other schools from all over the world at the Chesterton Discovery Days conference
3.19.26 - The first board meeting for the Mandan Classical Schools is held
3.26.26 - Articles of Incorporation are approved
3.28.26 - Our Core Team - a group of dedicated parents, meets for the first time to work on necessary tasks to open the school
4.7.26 - The Mandan Classical Schools launch party welcomes over 100 guests
4.23.26 - Nonprofit status is established
5.29.26 - We celebrate Chesterton’s Birthday with friends of the school and the $20,000 match of our Founders’ Fundraising Campaign is reached
6.1.26 - We receive state approval to operate a nonpublic school
6.10.26 - We are approved as an NDHSAA member School
6.18.26 - We receive permission from Bishop Kagan to announce our school location
6.22-25.26 - Our headmaster travels to the Chesterton Schools Network annual Summit to receive training and work with other Chesterton Academies from around the world - some opening in 2027 with us, and others in operation for over 10 years with enrollments exceeding 150 students.
7.10.26 - As we write to you today, our working board of directors and core team have met over 20 times to plan coordinate, and execute the many tasks needed to open this fall. Our board and headmaster have received 36 applications, and we are over 60% fundraised for the 26-27 academic year with our remaining goal at $70,000.
We are thankful for all those who have given of their time, talent, and treasure to make the milestones above possible. The generosity of our community is truly overwhelming. Praise God! Please join us in praying for God to give success to the work of our hands, spreading the word with others in search of excellent, classical education, and assisting our community in this great work.
