Why All‑Girls Education Matters - Chicago North Shore Moms

Words by Krista Gallagher, President and Ellie Schmerler-Rich, Vice President of Growth, Regina Dominican High School

 

This past summer, our students did what Regina Girls do best: stepping up, reaching out, and diving in. They mentored younger students at robotics and athletic camps, showing younger girls what leadership and sisterhood look like in action. Some got ready to lace up for flag football season, building teamwork and grit long before the school year begins. And others took their Regina spirit abroad, exploring seven European countries with open hearts and minds.

 

Why All‑Girls Education Matters

Behind all of this is the quiet power of our all-girls environment. Regina Dominican is a place where girls can simply be girls, free to take risks, speak up, try something new, or change their minds. It’s a space that models healthy girl culture, one rooted in encouragement, curiosity, and respect. Here, girls don’t just participate in STEM, they excel, diving deep into math, science, robotics, and more with no fear of standing out. Our vibrant fine arts program encourages students to express themselves through music, theater, visual arts, and dance, fostering creativity, confidence, and collaboration. Alongside a wide range of athletic teams and student-led clubs, these opportunities help each girl find her voice and shine in her own way.

Stronger Academics, Higher Ambitions

Studies consistently show that students at girls’ schools outperform peers at coed institutions, especially in STEM subjects and leadership roles. Regina Dominican exemplifies these findings:

  • 60% of the Class of 2025 declared a STEM major—proof that our environment encourages girls to choose fields where women are traditionally underrepresented. 

  • 87.5% of students scored a 3 or higher on their AP exams.

Here, the academic environment is not only rigorous but also thoughtfully designed for young women to flourish.

All‑Girls, All the Confidence

In our all-girls classrooms, students take on leadership roles without hesitation, participate actively, and take intellectual risks that are free from gender-based expectations or distractions. They learn leadership not as an option, but as a daily practice.

Programs like our Leadership Institute spotlight themes such as Authentic Self‑Confidence and Global Citizenship. Students engage with global leadership opportunities. From RYLA and HOBY to the UN Working Group on Girls, these experiences equip students to act boldly on the world stage. 

A Community of Sisterhood

At Regina, every student comes from a different background and together represent over 49 zip codes and more than 67 grade schools across Chicagoland. 

This diversity fuels belonging and fosters a wide network of support. Our alumnae network further amplifies opportunity by offering mentorship, internships, and professional guidance across fields.

Where Leaders Begin

At Regina Dominican, leadership isn’t just a skill, it’s a mindset.

The Leadership Institute empowers young women to discover their voice, pursue their passions, and step confidently into their future.

Through dynamic programs like Leadership Scholars and Leadership Badging, students explore transformative themes such as Authentic Self-Confidence and Global Citizenship. They engage with real-world leadership experiences, including RYLA, HOBY, and the UN Working Group on Girls, opening doors far beyond the classroom.

At Regina, every girl is equipped to lead with purpose, with impact, and without limits.

Why Regina Dominican?

Because here, academic excellence isn’t just a goal, it’s the starting line. Leadership isn’t just taught, it’s modeled. Confidence isn’t hoped for, it’s built.

Regina Dominican empowers young women to discover their strengths, follow their passions, and lead with purpose. Learn more by scheduling a personalized tour of campus or connecting with a member of our Enrollment Team.

Visit www.rdpanthers.org for more information.

*This post is sponsored content from Chicago North Shore Moms valued partner, Regina Dominican High School. Thank you!

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