Begin the Enrollment Process for the 2026–2027 School Year

Choosing the right school is an important decision, and we are honored you are considering Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools for your child’s education.

If you are searching for a faith-centered, academically strong, and supportive school community, we invite you to begin the enrollment process for the 2026–2027 school year today.

Enrollment Windows for 2026–2027

• Current Bishop Heelan Catholic School Families: February 2nd - March 15th, 2026
• New Catholic Families: March 16th - April 15th, 2026
• Open to All Families: April 16th, 2026

Families are encouraged to complete the enrollment process as early as possible. Due to anticipated high demand, early completion helps secure your child’s place within our school system.

Process for Returning Families:

1. Complete Online Registration (OLR)
2. Complete the Educational Savings Account (ESA) (Iowa Residents Only)
3. Complete Financial Aid Application (TADS)

Process for New Families: 

1. Communicate with Director of Enrollment, Laurie Dougherty
2. Cumulative File - Documentations needed for consideration of enrollment:
   1. A transcript (high school only)
   2. A current report card (K-12)
   3. Standardized test scores (ISASP, FAST and/or universal screener)
   4. Discipline and attendance records
   5. Individualized Educational Plan (IEP), 504, medical documentation if applicable
   6. Extracurricular involvement (athletics and activities)
   7. A copy of the student's birth certificate
   8. A copy of the student's immunization record
3. Students and parents/guardians will meet with the building principal/staff members
   1. Once all of the above is done, the final items to complete include: 
      1. Complete Online Registration (OLR)
      2. Complete the Educational Savings Account (ESA) (Iowa Residents Only) 
      3. Complete Financial Aid Application (TADS)
      4. Pay $100 registration fee and sign a tuition agreement 
      5. Meet guidance counselor to schedule classes (high school only)

Enrollment is NOT guaranteed if the cumulative file has not been received and reviewed prior to registration and registration fee. 

Therefore a student could still be told by BHCS that we cannot meet their needs and serve them if adequate resources are not available for the student. Enrollment could still be denied after OLR is complete and the $100 fee has been paid. 

Typical registration could take more than a week depending on circumstances, receipt of the cumulative file, and the $100 deposit. 

Download the Checklist for new bhcs families here (Coming Soon)

Iowa Education Savings Accounts (ESA)

Catholic education is becoming more accessible for families across Iowa through the Iowa Education Savings Account (ESA) program.

ESA Application Timeline for 2026–2027

• Applications Open: Coming Soon

• Applications Close: Coming Soon

Learn How to Apply for an Iowa ESA 

Click Here for ESA FAQs

We strongly encourage families to review ESA requirements and timelines carefully to ensure eligibility.

Important Enrollment Information

Please note the following regarding enrollment at Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools:

• 2026-2027 Tuition 

• Education Savings Account Information and Application

• Enrollment is not guaranteed until the student’s cumulative file has been received, reviewed, and approved.

• Completion of the Online Registration Link (ORL) and payment of the $100 registration fee do not guarantee acceptance.

• After review, Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools reserve the right to determine whether adequate resources are available to meet a student’s needs.

• Enrollment may still be denied even after ORL completion and fee payment if the school is unable to serve the student appropriately.

Registration Timeline
Typical registration may take more than one week, depending on individual circumstances, receipt of cumulative records, and payment of the $100 deposit.

We’re Here to Help

If you have questions or would like guidance through the enrollment process, please contact our Enrollment Director directly.

Laurie Dougherty
Director of Enrollment
laurie.dougherty@bishopheelan.org
712-252-1350

Laurie is happy to assist families at any stage—from initial questions to completed enrollment.

Take the Next Step

We look forward to partnering with you in your child’s academic and spiritual formation. Begin the enrollment process today and take the next step toward a faith-filled education that offers a lifetime advantage.

Enroll Now