Coffey Highlights New Catholic Building Trades School

Central Illinois will soon have a new trade school focused on traditional Catholic education. San Damiano College for the Trades is expected to open the doors in the Fall of 2025. Kent Lasnoski, the president of the school, is excited for this new chapter in his life. He is eager to start offering quality education through trades such as carpentry, plumbing and electrical contracting.

The new school will replace the campus of the former Chiara Center, located on the grounds of the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis in Springfield. The Franciscan Brothers of the Holy Cross operated the St. James Trade School there from 1928 to 1972. This new school will provide skilled trade training alongside Catholic education, giving students a unique opportunity to build their futures on these strong foundations. The college plans to offer associate degrees, hoping to draw students from across the nation while focusing on meeting the needs of Central Illinois.

State Representative Mike Coffey, who has been a strong supporter of educational initiatives that align with the values of the community, sees great potential in this new institution. "San Damiano College is exactly what we need right now," Coffey said. "In a world that’s increasingly fast-paced and focused on the next big thing, this school is taking a step back and asking, ‘What does it mean to live a good life?’ By combining trade skills with a strong Catholic education, San Damiano is preparing students not just for jobs, but for lives of integrity, service, and faith. I’m confident this school will have a lasting impact on our community and beyond."

San Damiano’s mission ties in closely with broader trends in Illinois, where high school trades and apprenticeship programs are offering students a variety of career paths. Whether students choose to enter the workforce immediately after graduation or continue their education, San Damiano College will prepare them to meet the demands of today’s job market while staying grounded in their values.

Read more about Kent Lasnoski’s vision for the future of this new college.

____________________________________________

Learn about Rep. Coffey's efforts:

• Education Concerns from Local School Superintendents
• High School Trades and Apprenticeship Programs Taking Hold in Illinois
• The Menta Education Group is Shaping a Bright Future for Students
• Coffey Tours St. Patrick Catholic School to see the impact of the “Invest in Kids Program”