A community dedicated to gathering, nurturing, learning and building.
The Ville, Northside, Riverview
Cardinal Ritter College Preparatory High School
5421 Thekla Avenue
Open to public / Not Open to public
Open to public

Founded in 1979, Cardinal Ritter College Preparatory High School serves as a beacon of educational excellence and social justice in St. Louis. Named after Cardinal Joseph Ritter, who courageously desegregated Catholic schools in the city during the 1940s, the school continues his legacy by providing a rigorous, faith-based education primarily to African American youth.
cardinalritterprep.net
Located adjacent to Saint Louis University, the modern campus opened in 2003 and offers a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes academic achievement, spiritual growth, and leadership development. Students benefit from programs such as the Intern Leadership Program, Christian Service initiatives, and opportunities to earn up to 18 college credit hours.
archstlschools.org
With a student-teacher ratio of 12:1 and a commitment to individualized instruction, Cardinal Ritter Prep boasts a 100% graduation rate and a 98% college acceptance rate. The school's vibrant community life includes a distinguished arts program, competitive athletics, and numerous clubs that cater to a wide range of interests.
cardinalritterprep.net
Guided by its core values—Enlightened in Faith, Nurtured with Compassion, Enriched by Excellence, and Called to Leadership—Cardinal Ritter College Prep continues to inspire students to become confident leaders and compassionate citizens, truly living up to its motto: "Aspiring, Inspiring – Empowered for Life."
SOURCE: The historical information presented on this page is adapted with permission from Discovering African American St. Louis: A Guide to Historic Sites by Dr. John A. Wright, Sr. We are honored to share his invaluable research and historical insights, made available through the generous consent of Dr. Wright and the Missouri Historical Society Press. Their dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of Black St. Louis is a gift to our community—a testament to those who came before us and a guide for those who walk the path forward.
COMMUNITY CONTACT
No affiliations
5421 Thekla Avenue
OTHER SOURCES
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES COMING SOON!





