Howells community catholic schools set for major upgrade thanks to matching grant

HOWELLS, Neb. — Howells Community Catholic School, a pillar of education in the community for over a century, is poised for a significant transformation thanks to a generous matching grant and collaborative efforts with the Archdiocese of Omaha.

The project, estimated to cost over half a million dollars, will bring much-needed upgrades and expansions to the school's facilities.

The school's history dates back to the 1800s, when students were divided between Saint Peter and Paul and Saint John's. In 2013, school officials unified the student body at Saint Peter and Paul, marking a significant step forward. However, with a growing student body of 45 and counting, space became a pressing concern.

In 2024, a ray of hope emerged when the Levine Foundation, in partnership with the Archdiocese of Omaha, offered a $200,000 matching grant. This grant served as a catalyst for the school's ambitious upgrade plans, which aim to raise a total of $850,000.

"Our library is currently in the church," explained Christy Mastny, Howells Community Catholic School board secretary and alumni. "The kindergarteners are also in the church basement. So, with the new additions, we'll be able to add several new classrooms, an administrative office, as well as a library, storm shelter, and a basement, which would be really great for the kids to have when it's too cold to play outside."

After submitting the necessary paperwork, the school received the exciting news in November 2024 that they had been awarded the grant. "We had a whole year to match the $200,000," Mastny said. "In that year's time, we matched it and exceeded it. We're currently at $788,000 raised through fundraising efforts."

While the official groundbreaking date is still pending, Mastny emphasized the school's commitment to inclusivity and its mission to prepare students for success.

"We also encourage students of all different religions and faith to learn about God and be in this type of environment," Mastny said. "Our goal is to prepare students to go into the future to be successful in not only school but in their community."

The upgrades and expansions will not only provide modern facilities but also enhance the overall learning environment for students. The new classrooms will offer more space for instruction, while the library will provide a dedicated area for research and reading. The storm shelter will ensure the safety of students and staff during severe weather events, and the basement will offer a much-needed indoor play area during the cold winter months.

With the community's support and the generosity of the Levine Foundation and the Archdiocese of Omaha, Howells Community Catholic School is poised to embark on a new chapter in its rich history. The upgrades and expansions will not only benefit current students but also ensure that the school remains a vital part of the community for generations to come.

For more information on the progress of Howells Community Catholic School or to donate, visit: https://sites.google.com/hccs.esu7.org/hccs/2025-capital-campaign