Everest Academy Students Experience the Papal Conclave Firsthand

Lemont, IL – May 8, 2025 — Everest Academy brought Church history to life this week with a unique, hands-on learning experience: a simulated papal conclave. In a joyful and faith-filled reenactment, students gathered to elect a pope—choosing Pope Andrew.

While some students were immersed in the conclave experience on campus, Everest’s sixth-grade class ventured downtown on a field trip to Holy Name Cathedral. During their visit, exciting news broke from Rome: the real College of Cardinals elected a new pope—Pope Leo XIV. The coincidence of both conclaves happening on the same day made the experience even more meaningful and memorable for the students.

Their visit to Holy Name Cathedral also drew the attention of several news outlets, resulting in interviews and media coverage celebrating the students’ engagement with their faith and Chicago’s rich Catholic heritage.

Click here to watch our sixth graders featured in the news. Click here to read the Washington Post article featuring our students.

From casting votes to witnessing history, it’s been a memorable day for Everest students—one filled with faith, formation, and fun.

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About Everest Academy:

Everest Academy is dedicated to providing an exceptional education to students from preschool through grade 8. With a focus on integral formation, Everest Academy nurtures students to reach their full potential in a supportive and innovative environment.

For more information, please contact Everest Academy’s Admissions Office at 630-243-1995 or szabilka@everestlemont.com.

Visit everestadvantage.org for more info!