Live Far but Looking for a Chesterton

Classical Education for Your Child?

At Chesterton Academy of the Divine Family, our Residential Boarding Program offers students more than just a place to stay — it’s a home where faith, friendship, and formation come together. Nestled in a nurturing Catholic environment, our boarding program provides students with the structure, community, and support they need to grow in virtue, independence, and academic excellence.


Students live, study, and pray together in a joyful community that mirrors the rhythm of family life. Daily Mass, shared meals, study halls, and recreation foster strong bonds and a deep sense of belonging. With dedicated house parents and mentors guiding them, boarders learn responsibility, discipline, and the beauty of living a life centered on Christ.



Whether from near or far, students in our Residential Boarding Program become part of a vibrant community that forms both the mind and the soul — preparing them for college, for life, and for sainthood.

Since space is limited, we encourage families to apply early  to secure their place.

Want to Connect? Let’s Talk.

You don’t have to wait for an Open House to learn more about Chesterton Academy of The Divine Family's Residential Boarding Program. We’re happy to meet with you one-on-one at your convenience.


Schedule a Private Visit:

  • Call us anytime at 240-237-3773 to book a tour and personal conversation with our admissions team.

Or

  • Click link to our  Google Calendar and choose a time to meet In-Person or Virtually.


Whether you’re just beginning your search or ready to apply, we’d love to hear your story and help you explore how your family can thrive at Chesterton Academy of the Divine Family.

Admissions Process

Our admissions process is designed to ensure that families share in our school’s mission

and values while making enrollment as seamless as possible.

Step 1: Info Session

INQUIRE NOW

Step 2: Interest

  • Tell us about your student and family.

INTEREST FORM

Step 3: Application & Interview

  • Academic record + character references.

Step 4: Placement

  • The Admissions Committee will review applications and notify families of acceptance.
  • Accepted students will receive an Enrollment Packet with instructions on the next steps in the enrollment process.

Residences & Safety

Student Homes (Two Residences)



  • Each home is overseen by a houseparent with childcare experience.
  • Five to nine students of the same gender live together.
  • Two to three students occupy each bedroom
  • Each student has their own twin bed, desk, and closet space
  • Large rooms with private bathrooms for privacy.
  • Students are responsible for chores. They help with vacuuming, cleaning the kitchen, doing laundry.
  • A large living room provides seating for watching television, reading, or relaxing
  • Each student home features a recreation or playroom with age-appropriate games and toys, varying by location.


Study, Recreation & Amenities


  • Study room and laundry in‑house
  • Basement movie room and gym
  • Outdoor space for sports and gatherings

Formation & Daily Rhythm

FORMATION

  • Daily prayer and the sacramental life in partnership with our parish.
  • Don Bosco’s preventive approach: presence, friendship, and cheerful discipline.
  • House system: mentoring, service, leadership roles.


SAMPLE WEEKDAY

  • MORNING: Prayer, Breakfast, Classes
  • AFTERNOON: Athletics, Arts, Clubs & Chores
  • EVENING: Supervised Quiet Study Hall, House Time, Prayer
  • LIGHTS OUT: Age-appropriate Bedtime for Healthy Rest


SAMPLE WEEKDAY

  • Mass, Service Projects, Outdoor Recreation, Choir/Drama, Games or Movie Night

Why Boarding at CADF?

  • Catholic & Classical

    Great Books, fine arts, and

    an integrated life of prayer and daily mass

  • Family‑style Community

    Students and live‑in staff, small and personal.

  • Virtuous Habit‑forming Routines

    Structured environment with chores, study hall, recreation, service.

  • Academically Focused

    Quiet study hall, tutoring, regular parent updates.

  • Family Involvement

    Students are permitted to have family visits both onsite and offsite.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How does lunch work?

    Students bring a bagged lunch.

  • How are houses assigned?

    During a special ceremony during the first week of school, new students are placed in a house and are welcomed by their new housemates. Siblings are assigned to the same house. Once a house has been chosen for a student, they will remain in that house.

  • Do your accept transfer students?

    Chesterton Academy welcomes transfer students each year who come from public, private, homeschool, and online high school environments. Our academic dean works closely with each transfer student to ensure his or her success as they transition to Chesterton. We welcome all inquiries and visitors. Please call to schedule a meeting.

  • Can a non-Catholic student attend CADF?

    Yes. We do require daily Mass attendance for all students as well as four years of Catholic theology; the curriculum is infused with Catholic thought throughout the classes. However, all are welcome! CADF admits students of any race, creed, or national origin.

  • Where can we get school uniforms?

    Uniforms must be purchased from Schoolbelles. Please visit the parents' information page for more information on our uniform expectations.

  • What is the summer reading requirement?

    Chesterton students are required to read two books over the summer each year. In 2023, we have added a family book to read as well.

  • When does the school year begin for new students?

    All new students are required to attend (in uniform) an orientation session for their grade on campus. We have an annual picnic for incoming freshman and their families. See our list of Key Dates & Events.

    Key Dates & Events