Providence Class Selected to Participate in National Research Opportunity
Providence Catholic High School is proud to announce its Introduction to Business class was selected to participate in a national research opportunity with the College Board. Providence is one of only 80 schools in the nation – and just five in Illinois – chosen to pilot this program. It is also the only private school in Illinois invited to take part in this prestigious initiative.
“This is an exciting opportunity for our students to engage with the College Board as they develop a course that combines business fundamentals with personal finance – both subjects vital for today’s students,” said teacher Titus Thompson, who is leading the participating class at Providence Catholic. “Our students will gain valuable hands-on experience applying what they learn to real-world situations.”
As part of the research, a select group of teachers across the country will pilot instructional resources designed for the forthcoming Advanced Placement (AP) Business with Personal Finance course. Providence Catholic’s selection reflects the school’s strong alignment with AP course standards and its commitment to preparing students for success in business, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy.
“At Providence Catholic, we’re seeking ways to provide a rigorous education grounded in real-world relevance and faith-based values,” said Principal Paul Houston. “Participating in this pilot underscores our mission to help students become thoughtful, ethical leaders in their future careers and communities.”
Throughout the school year, students will explore business decision making, entrepreneurship, and personal finance through interactive lessons, case studies, and a business canvas project in which they’ll develop and refine their own business ideas. They’ll also practice financial decisions such as college loans, home ownership, and retirement planning, all while meeting the required learning standards for the Introduction to Business course.
The experience provides Providence Catholic students with early exposure to AP coursework and financial literacy education that will prepare them for future academic and real-world success.