Established in 1962 Christ the King Regional High School stands as a testament to faith perseverance and community spirit. Located in Middle Village Queens it’s more than just a school. It’s a place where generations have learned grown and thrived.
Originally a diocesan high school under the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn Christ the King began with a freshman class in September 1962. Teachers from Mater Christi High School in Astoria Queens led the first classes. The school held its first classes in the unfinished Middle Village location on May 6 1963. The building was formally dedicated in April 1964.
Initially Christ the King operated as separate boys and girls divisions. Marist Brothers staffed the boys’ division. Daughters of Wisdom taught the girls. They shared a library cafeteria and auditorium. The top floors housed the religious orders. The first graduation in June 1966 saw 840 graduates an equal number of boys and girls. Until 1968 attendance at all Brooklyn Diocese high schools was free. Then a $300 tuition was introduced.
Significant changes in Catholic religious orders led to the Sisters of Wisdom leaving in 1970. Coeducational classes began. The transition to a fully coeducational school wasn’t easy. In 1973 disagreements between the expanding lay faculty and the diocese delayed classes for a week. After failed negotiations in 1975 the Bishop announced the school’s closure. However the students parents and faculty protested. They occupied the building. These efforts led to Christ the King becoming an independent regional high school in 1976.
Today Christ the King boasts a strong academic program including honors and Advanced Placement classes. Many students gain admission to prestigious universities. The school is renowned for its athletic programs particularly its basketball teams. It has produced numerous notable basketball stars such as Lamar Odom Sue Bird and Chamique Holdsclaw. Christ the King’s success is a result of its strong community ties and commitment to excellence. It continues to serve the community. It provides a variety of sports and clubs including a fitness center. The school’s history is marked by challenges but also by the unwavering dedication of its students faculty and community. The spirit of Christ the King lives on.