Big donation for Lake Zurich Catholic school

St. Francis de Sales Catholic School in Lake Zurich has received one of the largest grants in its history.

Officials announced Thursday the $200,000 grant to fund technology came from the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Foundation. St. Francis spokeswoman Diana MacGillis said the school was provided the entire grant the business manager had applied for last August.

With one of the largest donations in the school’s 58-year history, plans call for the purchase of technology upgrades, computing devices and digital content, including textbooks, novels and interactive online learning activities.

School technology coordinator Kelli Blakeslee said the St. Francis community and staff are grateful for the substantial donation.

“This contribution allows us to continue our technological efforts necessary for our students to achieve success in today’s ever-changing society,” Blakeslee said.

St. Francis de Sales also announced Thursday it’s starting a collaboration with Loyola University’s Center for Catholic School Effectiveness in Chicago. Part of the effort will involve work to strengthen St. Francis’ academic program by focusing on curriculum, instructional strategies, assessment and positive behavior management.