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Saratoga Central Catholic School Launches IRS-Certified VITA Program for 2026 Tax Season

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Education.

– Students at Saratoga Catholic received their IRS Certifications allowing them to help local community members with their taxes (Courtesy of Saratoga Catholic).

Update: Community members interested in scheduling a tax prep service can register for an appointment here.

Saratoga Central Catholic School (grades 6–12) has officially launched its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program for the 2026 tax season, with 23 IRS-certified 11th and 12th grade students completing free federal and state tax returns for members of the local community. 

Led by Business Instructor George Hannah, a class of juniors and seniors has trained throughout the school year to prepare for tax season. All participating students are now certified by the IRS to complete federal and state tax returns. Saratoga Central Catholic is one of just 121 schools nationwide (and one of 25 in New York) participating in the VITA program. 

Saratoga Catholic is one of just 121 schools in the country to participate in the VITA program (Courtesy of Saratoga Catholic).

The program has already completed several successful tax preparation sessions, with appointments continuing weekly through early April. 

The VITA experience gives students real-world application of financial and business concepts before college. Rather than simply studying theory, students gain hands-on professional experience, strengthen their resumes, and serve the local community. 

The Class of 2026, currently participating in the program, has already earned over $9 million in academic scholarships among its 32 graduates. As the Class of 2027 looks ahead to the college application process, opportunities like VITA further distinguish SCC students.

Community members interested in scheduling a free tax preparation appointment may register here.

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