Seton Hall Preparatory School

Did you ever hear of a school that relocated after 125 years? Seton Hall Preparatory School, or “The Prep,” did just that. Right here in West Orange, New Jersey, stands this all-boys Catholic high school. It’s hard to believe it wasn’t always here. Seton Hall Prep’s story begins in 1856 in Madison, New Jersey. Bishop James Roosevelt Bayley, nephew of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, envisioned a place for young men to grow in faith and knowledge. With a mere five students, the school began its journey. The school quickly outgrew its original location. In 1860, it moved to the Seton Hall University campus in South Orange. For over a century, “The Prep” thrived on the university grounds. It occupied buildings like Mooney Hall, Duffy Hall, and Stafford Hall. It even housed boarding students until the mid-1950s. As New Jersey’s transportation improved, students came from further afield, prompting the need for expansion once again. In 1980, an alumnus, Rev. Michael E. Kelly, became headmaster. Five years later, Seton Hall Prep found a new home. It moved to its present location in West Orange in 1985. This site was formerly West Orange High School. This move marked a new chapter. The Prep became independent. It allowed for continued growth and development, independent of the university. Expansion continued into the 21st century. In 1993, Seton Hall Prep purchased 44 acres overlooking the New York City skyline. This land became the Edward D. and Helen M. Kelly Athletic Complex. It boasts a 400-meter track, fields for lacrosse and soccer, and more. In 2013, the John J. Murphy ’52 Science Center opened, providing state-of-the-art facilities for budding scientists. Seton Hall Prep isn’t just about academics. It boasts a vibrant extracurricular scene with various clubs and 16 varsity sports. Students participate in everything from chess and robotics to performing arts and service organizations. Seton Hall Prep has continued to evolve. From its humble beginnings with five students to its current enrollment of nearly 1,000, Seton Hall Prep has adapted to the changing times. It stands as a testament to the vision of its founder and the dedication of its community. Seton Hall Preparatory School continues to prepare young men for success, carrying on a legacy that spans centuries.