Religious School Spotlight
Cristo Rey Fort Worth College Prep

Overview
Located in Fort Worth, TX, Cristo Rey Fort Worth College Prep is a Catholic, college preparatory school for students from households with or of limited economic means. Cristo Rey nurtures and challenges young women and men of all faiths to recognize and realize their full potential as they grow in their faith, respect others, and serve their community.
Cristo Rey’s innovative educational model combines four years of college-preparatory coursework with four years of professional work experience through its unique Corporate Work Study Program (CWSP). Students work one day a week at leading companies in fields such as healthcare, finance, engineering, and technology, gaining valuable skills, professional mentorship, and a vision for their futures. For students, these experiences inspire confidence and open doors to careers they never imagined possible.
Beyond the classroom, Cristo Rey is deeply committed to each student’s long-term success. This includes an eight-year pathway of targeted support, from ninth grade through college graduation. College preparation is built directly into the school curriculum, with dedicated classes to guide students through every step – from exploring colleges and preparing for standardized tests, to applying for scholarships and selecting the right school. Cristo Rey also provides alumni advising, ensuring graduates receive continued guidance in overcoming hurdles and achieving their college and career goals.
Cristo Rey’s impact is measured through impressive results, with a 100% college acceptance rate and with over 90% of graduates enrolling and persisting in college. The school also ensures college remains affordable for its students, with many receiving substantial scholarships and finishing their degrees with little to no debt.
What truly sets Cristo Rey apart is its mission-driven focus on equity, opportunity, and personal growth. The school creates a nurturing and challenging environment where students not only gain knowledge but also develop grit, resilience, and leadership skills. Cristo Rey Fort Worth is not just a high school; it is a transformational experience that empowers students to dream bigger, achieve more, and become the future leaders of their community.
Key Outcomes
- 100% college acceptance rate since the inaugural class of 2022
- 100% acceptance into four-year colleges and universities
- 13:1 student to teacher ratio
- 60+ corporate partners
- 92% college enrollment and persistence rate (compared to 63-67% national average for high-income students)
- Over $26 million earned in scholarships and grants for the class of 2024
Testimonials
“There is talent everywhere but opportunities are not. At Cristo Rey, we strive to bridge that gap. We tell families, ‘This will be hard, and it will be challenging.’ Parents make sacrifices, and students put in the effort but the rewards are clear – in their achievements at work, in their high school graduations, and, ultimately, in their college enrollments.'”
Dani Ray Barton, President of Cristo Rey
Quick Facts
Student Population
250+ students
Tuition
Sliding scale based on each family’s unique financial circumstances
Corporate Work Study Program
All students participate, working one day a week at leading companies
Alumni Support
An 8-year support model tracking and assisting students from 9th grade through college completion
Faith-Based Environment
Welcoming students of all faiths with a focus on personal growth, leadership and community service
College Readiness
80% of graduates meet rigorous benchmarks for college readiness, based on GPA and testing
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About Religious Schools
Religious schools can be called parochial schools, church schools, or other names depending on their affiliation and religious education, but they are private schools that are affiliated with a religious organization.
Benefits of Religious Schools
Moral Values
Students can develop a strong moral compass and religious values.
Strong Sense of Community
Students can feel a sense of belonging and connection.
Spiritual Development
Students can learn more about themselves and their faith.
Character Development
Students can develop ethical standards.
Global Awareness
Students can gain a broader understanding of views and beliefs, and improve their knowledge of global affairs.
Respect for Others
Students can learn to respect others and avoid religious discrimination.
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