About
History
How it Started
In 1954, Bishop Michael Joseph Ready announced the plans to build a new Catholic high school in Columbus, Ohio. Bishop Ready decided the school would be named after the fourth Bishop of Columbus, Bishop James J. Hartley. The sisters of Notre Dame de Namur (the city’s first order of teaching nuns) agreed to staff the school which would be under Diocesan control. At the time of Bishop Ready’s death on May 2, 1957, the exterior of the building had been completed and the interior was well underway. Although Bishop Ready did not see the finished product of the new Catholic high school, he had the satisfaction of knowing that the second unit in the high school expansion program was accomplished and that the first class had enrolled.
On September 12, 1957, Bishop Hartley High School officially opened and welcomed its initial class of 177 ninth grade students. In addition to the faculty of six Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur (including the principal), Bishop Hartley was staffed with three priests for religion classes, and three lay teachers. The first class graduated in 1961 and Bishop Hartley High School now touts more than 8,000 alumni.
The building was formally dedicated on May 4, 1958. Bishop Edward G. Hettinger consecrated the altar in the school chapel and offered the first Mass on Wednesday, September 11, 1957. The school’s patron is St. James.
On September 12, 1957, Bishop Hartley High School officially opened and welcomed its initial class of 177 ninth grade students.
Throughout its 66-year history, Bishop Hartley High School’s mission is lived out every day: Transforming lives through the teachings of Jesus Christ within the Catholic traditions.
How It's Going
Bishop Hartley is continuing to transform students’ lives today, as we have more than 700 students on campus. We continue to develop our facilities, and over the years we have made several improvements and additions to our campus. Improvements and expansion over the years include lobby renovations, and additions of a science wing, a courtyard, and the Holy Family Shrine. In 2008, in a symbolic move, the St. James the Greater Chapel was relocated to the center of the school.
As we continue to develop our facilities, we remember most importantly we are developing the mind, body, soul, and spirit of our students. Throughout its 66-year history, Bishop Hartley High School’s mission is lived out every day: Transforming lives through the teachings of Jesus Christ within the Catholic traditions.
