Catholic Schools announces gift from Belardi Family
Archdiocese Department of Catholic Schools announces transformative gift from Belardi Family
The Department of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles (ADLA) announced today that it has received a transformative gift from Jim and Leslie Belardi that will significantly expand financial support for Catholic school students and increase investment in its academic programs.
“Because of the profound generosity of the Belardi Family, our schools will be empowered to implement new academic support strategies and expand access to underserved students seeking a Catholic school education in our archdiocese,” said Paul M. Escala, Senior Director and Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. “The impact of their contribution will be far and wide, ensuring that a quality, values-based education with strong academic and career outcomes is available to thousands of families. This gift will bring us closer to our goal of becoming the highest performing system of Catholic schools in the nation by 2030.”
The gift will provide increased funding for student scholarships and tuition assistance to over 8,000 students attending 50 Catholic elementary and high schools in the Archdiocese. It will also expand investment in specific instructional systems and professional development of teachers, particularly for Solidarity Schools, an initiative that addresses the academic needs of the most vulnerable students.
“As educational and societal challenges evolve, we must respond with best-in-class solutions for young learners,” Escala said. “Our Solidarity Schools initiative has demonstrated astonishing outcomes for our students, and with new funding from the Belardi Family, we will continue to invest in its success.”
The Belardis have a longtime connection to Catholic schools, with Jim, Leslie and their three children having attended Catholic elementary and high schools within Los Angeles and Orange counties. Jim is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Athene, the leading retirement services company with more than $360 billion in total assets.
Jim Belardi said, “Our family has benefited greatly from the academic rigor, faith-based learning
environment and sense of community found in the Catholic school system. This gift will help ensure that the most vulnerable students have access to a quality Catholic education in the Los Angeles area, positioning the next generation for success.”
“Our philanthropic partners play a crucial role in providing the teaching resources and interventions needed to help every student thrive,” added Escala. “We are deeply grateful for the Belardi Family’s profound commitment to Catholic education and to shaping future generations of faith-filled leaders.”
About the Department of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles
Since 1851, Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles have been committed to educating, inspiring, and supporting students within a vibrant, Christ-centered community. With 250 schools in three counties – Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara – the Department of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles is the largest Catholic school system in the United States serving over 65,500 students PK-12. Students learn passionately, serve faithfully, and grow toward their highest potential. To learn more about the Department of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, please visit https://lacatholicschools.org.
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