Our Founding: A Legacy of Excellence and Community at The Frances Xavier Warde School

The Frances Xavier Warde School (FXW), a prominent Catholic institution nestled in the heart of downtown Chicago, serves over 800 students from preschool through Grade 8. Established in 1989 by Mrs. Maggie Daley and Jack Wall, FXW was born from the late Maggie Daley’s vision to create a school renowned for academic excellence, a distinguished faculty and staff, and a rich tradition of nurturing young leaders. FXW, with its two-campus model, welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, instilling in them the values of community engagement, lifelong learning, critical thinking, and resilience.

Maggie Daley’s ambitious dream took shape when she collaborated with Fr. Jack Wall, then pastor of Old St. Patrick’s Church. Together, they sought out Sr. Mary Ellen Caron, a dedicated Mercy nun, to serve as the school’s first principal. Under the initial name of Old St. Patrick’s School, they opened the doors to a place where children received not only a top-tier academic education but also a strong moral foundation. That same year, the Children of the Crossroads Foundation was established, creating a scholarship endowment that supported 30% of the students, ensuring the school’s mission of inclusivity and diversity.

FXW’s reputation for excellence quickly grew, and in 1997, the school was renamed The Frances Xavier Warde School to honor an influential Irish nun. Mother Warde, a member of the Sisters of Mercy, was renowned for her faith, energy, and compassion, founding a network of schools, orphanages, and hospitals across the country. FXW proudly embodies her spirit and commitment to service.

By 1999, FXW had outgrown its original campus at Old St. Patrick’s Church and expanded to include the Holy Name Cathedral building for its upper grades. This expansion was made possible with the support of

 Fr. Bob McLaughlin, pastor of Holy Name. To this day, the school’s campuses retain the names of the parishes on which they reside.

More than three decades later, FXW stands as one of Chicago’s most esteemed educational institutions, with two thriving campuses:

• Old St. Patrick’s Campus (OSP): Located in the West Loop, this campus serves around 400 students from Preschool through Grade 3, marking the beginning of their FXW journey.

  

• Holy Name Cathedral Campus (HNC): Situated in the heart of downtown, this campus accommodates around 400 students from Grades 4-8, guiding them to graduation.

• Through a steadfast commitment to its founding principles, The Frances Xavier Warde School continues to foster an environment where academic rigor, moral integrity and community spirit thrive.