Catholic Schools

First graduating class of Bishop England High School, 1917

In 1887, Bishop Northrop proposed a system of parochial schools for the free education of Catholic children in the diocese. Each parish that was able would operate its own school. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, St. Mary of the Annunciation, St. Patrick, and St. Joseph parishes opened schools in the first year. The education program expanded to include secondary schools, beginning with Fathers Joseph “Doc” O’Brien and James May opening Bishop England High School in 1915.

Front row, left to right: Lillian White, Margaret Fields, Msgr. P. L. Duffy, Msgr. James J. May, Edna Sturcken, Ethel O’Melia. Back row, left to right: Joseph Morris, Msgr. Joseph L. O’Brien, Ralph Knisely.