In the heart of Warren, Michigan, stands a school with nearly a century of tradition shaping its halls. De La Salle Collegiate High School is more than a place for classes and exams. It is a place where generations of young men have been taught to grow in character, sharpen their minds, and live with purpose.
Founded in 1926 by the Christian Brothers, De La Salle opened its doors on Detroit’s east side with just 85 freshmen. The school quickly became known for its mix of strong academics and a faith-centered environment, forming students who were ready to face life’s challenges. By 1982, the school’s growth and the need for modern facilities brought it to Warren, where it continues to thrive.
Its mission is captured in a phrase that alumni often repeat with pride: “Builders of Boys. Makers of Men.” The school seeks to guide young men to be not only well-educated but also men of faith and integrity. Its vision is grounded in five Lasallian principles that remain as relevant today as they were at its founding: faith in the presence of God, quality education, respect for all, inclusive community, and concern for those in need.
A Curriculum Designed for the Future
De La Salle Collegiate offers a robust college preparatory program for grades 9–12, combining academic rigor with a personalized approach. Students can select from 17 AP courses, 12 Honors classes, and dual enrollment options with local universities. Innovative pathways in Biomedical Science, Engineering, Cybersecurity, and Aviation prepare students for in-demand careers.
The Steve & Kathy McShane STEM Innovation Center features advanced technology, including Michigan’s first private high school Anatomage® virtual dissection table. This unique mix of liberal arts, STEM, and faith formation ensures graduates leave as critical thinkers, ethical leaders, and compassionate contributors to the world.
Opening Doors Through Opportunity
De La Salle Collegiate follows a holistic admissions process, reviewing transcripts, teacher recommendations, discipline records, and standardized test scores. Entrance exams are primarily used for scholarship and honors placement. The school maintains a high acceptance rate, staying true to its mission of inclusion. Affordability is a cornerstone of its approach.
Each year, De La Salle distributes more than $2 million in tuition assistance, with over one-third of students receiving aid. Average awards exceed $4,000, and partnerships with local foundations help fund additional scholarships. This commitment ensures that a Lasallian education remains accessible to students from every background.
Leadership with a Lasting Vision
Principal Christopher Dean speaks often about the brotherhood that makes De La Salle unique. He reminds families that the school’s mission goes beyond academics, focusing on faith formation and a supportive community that shapes students for life.
Chief Operations Officer Dan Rohn echoes this commitment, saying, “At De La Salle, we don’t just prepare students for the next four years, we prepare them for life. Our graduates leave with knowledge, faith, and a brotherhood that lasts forever.” Together, the leadership team ensures that every decision reflects the school’s core values and its nearly 100-year Lasallian tradition.
A Diverse and Growing Community
De La Salle Collegiate continues to grow while staying true to its mission of inclusion. Today, about 13 percent of students identify as students of color, and nearly 40 percent receive financial aid, making the school reflective of the wider Metro Detroit region. Small class sizes, averaging just 18 students, allow for a personalized learning experience where every student is known and supported.
This intimate setting fosters strong relationships between students and faculty, while still offering a wide range of extracurricular and athletic programs that encourage students to explore their passions and develop as well-rounded young men.
Supporting Every Learner
De La Salle Collegiate is committed to helping every student thrive, no matter how he learns. The Loepp Family Foundation Pilot Center offers individualized support for students with learning differences, while faculty receive training to adapt instruction for varied learning styles.
The school also partners with its Local Education Agency to provide services like social work support, speech and language therapy, and teacher consultation on-site. Beyond academics, De La Salle promotes an inclusive culture through programs that honor diverse backgrounds. Guided by the Lasallian principle of “inclusive community,” it ensures every young man feels valued and supported.
A Campus Alive with Opportunity
Student life at De La Salle Collegiate is active and engaging, with more than 50 clubs and organizations to explore. From FIRST Robotics and Rocketry to DECA, HOSA, National Honor Society, and campus ministry groups, there is something for every interest. Over 90 percent of students participate in a club, sport, or activity, building friendships and leadership skills along the way.
Athletics are a cornerstone of school spirit, with teams competing in the Catholic High School League and earning multiple state championships in football, basketball, soccer, and more. Each program teaches discipline, teamwork, and lasting camaraderie.
Leadership that Works Together
De La Salle Collegiate follows a COO-Principal model designed to keep strategy and daily life in balance. COO Dan Rohn focuses on strategic growth, while Principal Christopher Dean, ‘89, leads academics and campus culture. Andrew Campbell, the school psychologist, serves as Dean of Students and heads counseling. Annmarie Michol serves as the Vice-Principal of Academics and Curriculum Director, Scott Husken serves as STEM director and Brian Barker serves as Admissions and Ministry Director.
This collaborative structure allows each department to work closely, ensuring students receive a seamless experience that integrates strong academics, meaningful faith development, and rich co-curricular opportunities, creating a well-rounded education for every young man who walks its halls.
Living Out Diversity and Inclusion
At De La Salle Collegiate, diversity, equity, and inclusion flow naturally from its Lasallian heritage. The school works to create an environment where every student feels respected and supported. Its generous financial aid policies and outreach to underrepresented communities open doors for more families to access a Lasallian education.
Cultural awareness is encouraged through classroom discussions, student-led initiatives, and schoolwide events that celebrate different traditions. Faith-based programming reinforces the dignity of every person, reminding students that inclusion and justice are not just ideals but essential parts of Catholic and Lasallian education, shaping how they live and lead.
Guiding Students beyond the Classroom
The school supports students’ growth well past academics. The Counseling Department offers academic advising, college planning, and social-emotional support, helping each student chart his path with confidence. Career counseling and alumni mentorship programs connect students with graduates working in diverse fields, giving them access to real-world advice and networking opportunities.
Service-learning projects, retreats, and spiritual formation programs add depth to the student experience, encouraging reflection and a sense of purpose. Together, these resources ensure that every graduate leaves De La Salle not just ready for college, but prepared to live out the school’s mission in the world.
Looking Toward the Next Century
De La Salle Collegiate is preparing for an exciting future as it approaches its centennial in 2026. Leaders are focused on deepening technology integration, expanding STEM pathways, and growing AP and dual-enrollment offerings. The STEM Innovation Center marks a major step, but plans also include strengthening fine arts, service-learning and global education initiatives.
Continued investment in financial aid remains a priority, keeping the school accessible to families from all economic backgrounds. As it celebrates 100 years, De La Salle is committed to honoring its tradition while shaping the next century of Lasallian education for future generations of students.
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“We don’t just prepare students for the next four years—we prepare them for life.”
