ABOUT > ORGANIZATION HISTORY
One hundred years ago as a new century began, a small group of church leaders decided to start a new kind of school. The history of the Grand Rapids Catholic Secondary Schools is an interesting study of inspiration, perseverance, and growth that dates back to decisions and steps taken in the early 1900’s. The decision to open a central Catholic high school, let alone a co-educational one was unprecedented in the nation at that time.
Ours is a story of pioneering coeducational high schools whose conception, growth, and evolution were driven largely by the desire to offer students a quality Catholic education. Catholic Central High School opened its doors in September 1906, followed by West Catholic High School in 1962.
This innovative diocesan co-educational school would survive both world wars, the Great Depression, fire, financial stress and clergy shortage. Along the way it would inspire hundreds of other schools nation-wide and grow into two schools with multiple facilities. Both high schools would produce over 27,000 graduates and thousands of community leaders.
The year 2006 marked the centennial anniversary of Catholic high school education in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Catholic Central and West Catholic’s success represents the united effort of the bishop, parish clergy, teaching Sisters, and Catholic parents. Together they were the foundation that helped realize the dream of having Catholic high school education in Grand Rapids. This centennial was a true celebration and testament to the enduring resilience of Catholic high school education in Grand Rapids.
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