Chesterton Network Granted $1 Million
The Chesterton Schools Network (based in Hopkins, MN) won the $1 million Yass Prize, given at the Power of Innovation Summit in Washington, DC on December 4, 2025. Chesterton Academy of Rochester is one of roughly 70 schools in the network and is among the oldest. Chesterton Academies operate across the United States, and schools have just started opening in other countries.
The Network will use the prize money to accelerate the launch and sustainability of affordable, faithful Catholic high schools, boosting its 2040 target to 1,000 schools and 100,000 scholars nationwide.
“Across the country, we continue to meet extraordinary educators creating opportunities that families desperately need,” said Janine Yass, who co-founded the prize with her husband, Jeff. “Chesterton’s work reminds us why we do this – to champion entrepreneurs who bring joy, purpose, and excellence back to education.”
About the Yass Prize
The Yass Prize is viewed as the “Pulitzer for Education Innovation”—devoted to identifying and elevating the next generation of education changemakers. Through generous financial support as well as essential connectivity and knowledge-sharing, founders Janine and Jeff Yass aim to empower organizations that give students not only education, but also dignity, value, and a sense of family.
Find Out More
The Yass Prize profiles the Chesterton Network and explains why it stands out
