Established in 1955 Holy Cross High School stands proudly in Flushing Queens. This impressive institution initially served only boys. It wasn’t until 2018 that Holy Cross opened its doors to welcome girls. The school’s history is rich with stories of academic excellence. It also boasts a strong athletic program.
Holy Cross’s origins trace back to a friendship. This friendship blossomed on the Notre Dame campus in the 1940s. Msgr Edmund Reilly and Rev Frederick Schulte CSC envisioned a Catholic high school in Queens. The Brothers of Holy Cross were instrumental in bringing that dream to life. They first worked at St Thomas Aquinas and St Francis of Assisi. Within months of arriving at St Thomas Aquinas the Brothers were invited to establish a high school in Bayside West.
The school officially opened in 1955. The building was still under construction. The support of parents and friends was crucial to its success. The first graduating class in 1959 comprised 460 students. That was a testament to the school’s quick rise to prominence. Holy Cross quickly became a fine institution.
The school’s athletic program also boasts impressive achievements. The inaugural 1955 football team laid the foundation. Coaches Gerry Begley and Bill Stetter led the team. Coach Begley was a standout high school quarterback and a backup QB for the 1947 Notre Dame Heisman winner John Lujack. Under legendary coach Frank Leahy at Notre Dame Begley won three national championships. Holy Cross’s football program later achieved national recognition producing many college recruits. Coaches Guido Maiola and Robert Griffin led the team to NYC championships in 1963 and 1965. Coach Griffin later went on to coach college football.
Initially Holy Cross offered a comprehensive education. This included college preparatory courses industrial arts and general studies. Today the school is entirely college prep. About 98% of graduates pursue higher education. The school’s governance structure evolved during the McGovern tenure (1975-1981). It transitioned from a completely religious board to a two-pronged system. This involved an ownership board and a lay board of directors. This innovative structure has been replicated by other religious schools.
Holy Cross also boasts a thriving academic program. The school initially included an industrial arts program. This program included a print shop which printed the school newspaper The Lance. The industrial arts program was discontinued to focus on college preparation. During McGovern’s principalship the school reached its peak enrollment at over 1400 students. The school offers a Blessed Father Basil Moreau Honors Program. It also has a three year Science Research Program. This program allows students to partner with universities and hospitals for research. The school provides learning support services to ensure all students succeed.
Holy Cross High School is more than just a school. It’s a community. It’s a legacy. It is a testament to faith hard work and dedication. The school continues to shape the lives of countless students. The school’s contributions extend beyond the classroom. It’s a place where dreams are nurtured and futures are forged.