School Spotlight: Shakopee Area Catholic School

The School Spotlight series is an invitation for supporters and friends to learn about individual schools’ life-transforming work – and why we provide access to all 80 schools serving grades K-8 in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

Shakopee Area Catholic School

Shakopee Area Catholic School (SACS) was established in 1970 as a consolidation of  three Catholic parish schools.  In 2013, Shakopee Area Catholic School officially became the parish school of Saints Joachim and Anne of Shakopee. Serving a notably diverse student body, the school today serves about 600 children preschool age through 8th grade. SACS keeps their mission at the heart of everything they do: “Shakopee Area Catholic School nurtures the body, mind, and spirit of each child. We make Jesus Christ known and loved to our students. We strive to develop responsible leaders through innovative academics, personalized learning, and community outreach in a welcoming and faith-filled Catholic school.”

The school’s principal, Nikki Giel shares the unique educational approach at SACS that reflects this mission. “Success is measured with a Personalized Growth Plan (PGP)—a tool that truly sets us apart. The PGP allows students, teachers, and families to work together to set individual goals, monitor progress, and celebrate growth, particularly in the area of executive functioning.” By placing ideals at the heart of learning, Shakopee Area Catholic School prioritizes the “development of independent, confident learners who are prepared for lifelong success.”

Nikki expands on how this community of learning goes beyond the classroom. “Being a part of this community means being surrounded by people who are committed to growing together, and that shared purpose is what makes SACS feel like home. Whether it’s the way we support one another in times of need, celebrate milestones together, or gather in prayer and worship, there is a strong sense of belonging here. It’s a place where faith is not just something we teach, but something we live—woven into our lessons, our relationships, and our decisions.”

The partnership between SACS and the Aim Higher Foundation is an added blessing. Nikki notes what the foundation’s impact looks like in the SACS community, “What stands out most is their personal and responsive support. I can call or email the team at Aim Higher and know I’m reaching people who are not only knowledgeable but deeply committed to walking alongside me as we support our families. They don’t just provide scholarships—they provide reassurance, encouragement, and practical solutions during what can be a very stressful process for families.”

A mother of an Aim Higher scholar feels the daily impact that access to Catholic education has made on her 4th grade daughter. “The Aim Higher Foundation has made a huge difference. Without their help, guidance, and support, we would not be able to send our daughter to a school that truly helps her grow. Not just in a social and academic way but, more importantly, in a spiritual way. It means so much to us that her walk with the Lord is nourished every day by teachers and peers.”

Nikki finishes, “The Aim Higher Foundation’s flexibility, understanding, and mission-driven approach make a real difference. Thanks to their support, we’ve been able to welcome students who otherwise may not have had the opportunity to attend SACS. Those students bring joy, diversity, and strength to our school community, and that ripple effect extends far beyond the classroom. The Aim Higher Foundation is more than a funding source—they are a true ministry partner, and we are so grateful for the impact they continue to make in the lives of our students and families.”

About Shakopee Catholic School

An award-winning community, Shakopee Area Catholic School strives for truly personalized learning for its demographically diverse student body. Offering preschool through eighth grade, the school offers opportunities for well-rounded student development with faith, academic, extracurricular, and service-based activities. The school’s mission is centered in being known and loved by Christ, each other, and their nearly 100 staff members. The Aim Higher Foundation is pleased to support Shakopee in extending the gift of educational excellence to all families who aspire to be part of its community. Learn more.