Here, at the highest point of West Seattle, stands Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. This isn’t just a church. It is a beacon of faith and community.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish was established in 1960. Archbishop Thomas A. Connolly of Seattle created it. The parish was formed from parts of Holy Rosary Parish and Holy Family Parish. In the beginning, the Sisters at Mount St. Vincent offered space. They provided a rectory and parish hall. Priests found shelter there. Meetings and socializing took place in one of the rooms.
Land was bought to build a school for Our Lady of Guadalupe. While the school was under construction, 200 students attended Maryknoll school. Maryknoll is now part of Providence Hospital. The school opened its doors in 1962. That Christmas, the congregation celebrated Mass in the new school’s basement. For seven years, the basement served as both church and parish hall.
After much hard work and a successful fundraising campaign, the Parish church opened in 1970. It was a joyous occasion. The community finally had a dedicated space for worship.
The Sisters of Saint Mary of Oregon led the school until 1974. Since then, dedicated educators have staffed the school. They strive to equip students with compassion and morality. Courage, critical thinking, and academic excellence are taught. The goal is responsible stewardship in today’s society.
Our Lady of Guadalupe School began with single-grade classrooms. These ranged from kindergarten to eighth grade. Preschool and prekindergarten programs launched in 2003 after a year of study. In 2012, a state-of-the-art school gym was completed. This was a long-awaited project. In 2018, the school transformed its lower floor. It became the Early Learning Center. This expanded preschool and prekindergarten programs. Convenient full and half-day options were offered to parents.
For over 60 years, Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic School has provided quality education. It serves the surrounding community. The school partners with each student’s family. They create a nurturing environment. Children are challenged and supported. They grow intellectually and spiritually. They learn to serve and lead.
Our Lady of Guadalupe School is accredited. The Western Catholic Education Association accredits it. The Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction approves it. It is a member of the National Catholic Education Association.
The school follows Archdiocesan curriculum guidelines. It also adheres to Washington State Common Core Standards. Core subjects include religion and service outreach. Math, social studies, and science are taught. Language arts, music, physical education, and art are also included. A full-time counselor is on staff to support students.
Our Lady of Guadalupe School & Parish acknowledges that they are on the traditional land. It is the land of the first people of Seattle, the Duwamish People. They honor the land and the Duwamish Tribe with gratitude.
Our Lady of Guadalupe represents more than just a location. It embodies community and history. It stands as a testament to faith. The church and school continue to serve and inspire. They welcome all to become part of their unique community here in West Seattle.