Did you know that Marist High School’s story begins with a request? In the early 1960s Cardinal Albert Gregory Meyer asked the Christian Brothers of Ireland to establish an all-male high school. They declined. The land? Surrounded by St Casimir Lithuanian Cemetery. Then the Marist Brothers stepped in. This is Marist High School.
Marist High School opened its doors in 1963. 323 young men formed the charter class. It was an all-boys school. That’s a key part of Marist High School’s history. It remained exclusively male for almost forty years. But times changed. The school adapted.
In the mid-1990s Marist High School changed its mascot. They moved away from the Redskins. The RedHawks became the new symbol. The yearbook changed names too. The Plainsman became The Lantern. These small changes reflected a growing awareness and a commitment to inclusivity. This is more than just a school. It’s a reflection of changing times. It shows the evolving attitudes of its community.
Then in 2002 a major shift occurred. Marist High School opened its doors to girls. This transformed the school’s identity completely. It’s a testament to its adaptability and forward-thinking spirit. The school’s evolution embodies its motto: Education for Time and Eternity.
Marist High School’s commitment to academics is evident. Students take four years of religious studies. They can choose community service or peer leadership in their final year. They have access to seventeen different AP courses. These opportunities prepare them for college and beyond. And there are impressive facilities. There’s a new science wing. It even includes a planetarium.
Marist High School also excels in athletics. They compete in the East Suburban Catholic Conference. They’ve won numerous state championships in various sports. Their wrestling team holds an impressive record: twenty-seven consecutive conference titles. The school takes pride in both academics and athletics.
Marist High School boasts a remarkable legacy. Many notable alumni have achieved success in various fields. From actors like Christopher Denham and Michael Peña to athletes like Tom Gorzelanny and Dave Gust. These individuals contribute to the school’s reputation. They exemplify the values fostered within the Marist community. This is more than just a building. It’s a community. It’s a legacy. It’s Marist High School.