04/09/2026
Two days after our official launch, we consider the two schools we intend to establish.
Founded by concerned parents who wanted more for their children’s high school education, the first Chesterton Academy was established in 2008 in Minnesota. The school grew, and as it did, the news of the wonderful things happening there was spread far and wide. Soon, it became clear that the mission of the school was greater than one location for one group of students. The Chesterton Schools Network was established to help others start their own Chesterton academies. In a short time, the Chesterton Schools Network has grown to over 70 schools internationally. The reputation of these schools has been strengthened by every class of graduates that attend excellent universities, enter trades, and join religious life and seminaries.
Parents in our area have had Chesterton academies on the mind for years now. Indeed, one of our board members, Dr. Kevin Walker, is one of the earliest proponents of this method of education in this area. Many graduates of Chesterton academies have impressed professors at the University of Mary, and Dale Ahlquist, the co-founder of the original Chesterton Academy, spoke at the University of Mary Commencement Ceremony a few years ago with one of his children among the graduates.
It was clear to the parents who started the movement for the Chesterton Academy of Mandan that this was the way to encourage the pursuit of truth in their children. The joy of the Chesterton Schools Network is its defining quality as they establish schools for the Lord’s service in the classical tradition. The Chesterton Academy of Mandan is at the heart of our educational endeavors. The Mandan Classical Academy, the first of the Mandan Classical Schools, will accommodate all our students as we prepare for the Chesterton Academy of Mandan to be established in 2027. When the Chesterton Academy of Mandan is up and running, the Mandan Classical Academy will remain as a preparatory middle school for those who wish to begin their classical studies earlier. Alongside all the excellent educational options in this area, we hope to join them in a shared mission to guide and form men and women to become saints.
If you would like to support our work, join the Memorare Army or give to our Founder’s Fundraising Campaign. From April 7 to May 29, the first $20,000 will be matched dollar for dollar. https://www.chestertonmandan.org/donate
If you are interested in joining our school community, inquire to join our waitlist or apply today. https://www.chestertonmandan.org/admissions
