History of Saint Cecilia School

Founding Years (1911–1925)

On October 1, 1911, Archbishop Prendergast officially established Saint Cecilia Parish, appointing Reverend William C. Sheridan as the founding pastor. On August 17, 1924, the cornerstone was laid for the first school at 530 Stanwood Street. Classes for 113 students, conducted by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary—a community dedicated to Catholic education—began in September 1925.

Growth and Expansion (1955–1971)

By 1955, enrollment had increased significantly. To meet the need, the school auditorium was converted into classrooms, and the top floor of the Fox Chase Library was rented for the eighth grade, later also housing fourth through sixth grades. This became known as the “Saint Cecilia Annex.”

In 1964, with enrollment still rising, ground was broken for a new modern building featuring three floors with six classrooms each. In 1971, six additional classrooms, along with a gymnasium and auditorium, were added.

Modernization and Student Support (1982–1992)

Between 1982 and 1992, the school underwent important changes. The gym and computer classes were professionally structured, and the school library was computerized to handle growing demands. Students in need of additional support—such as counseling, speech therapy, remedial reading, and mathematics—were referred to professionals in the CORA trailer on school grounds. A second kindergarten class was opened, and the CARES program was established to provide after-school care for children of working parents.

Continued Growth and Technology (1993–2000s)

With enrollment at capacity, an addition was built onto the original structure in 1993. This expansion provided new classrooms, office space, meeting rooms, a faculty lunchroom, and storage areas. Over the next several years, the computer lab was updated, a laptop room was added, and the entire building was wired for internet access. Curriculum updates included the introduction of Honors Math and Classroom Music.

Academic Advancements (2000s–Present)

Following the last Middle States accreditation, further enhancements were made. A second computer lab was built to accommodate full classrooms for research purposes. A fully equipped science lab was added, and the Lab Learner Science program was adopted. This hands-on curriculum, used from kindergarten through eighth grade, aligns with the National Science Education Standards (NGSS).

Safety and Security

Security procedures are continuously updated. School entrances remain locked at all times, with faculty and staff accessing the building through key fobs. Security cameras are fully operational. All classrooms are equipped with telephones that connect directly to the main office and the vice-principal’s office.

Student Services and Programs

In 2012, the school introduced a daily hot lunch program through the Nutritional Development Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. This program provides hot meals five days a week to students at free, reduced, or regular prices. To accommodate it, larger refrigerators, freezers, and ovens were installed in the cafeteria kitchen.

That same year, new lighting and a specialized gym floor were installed, thanks to the generosity of the Keeley family, in honor of their son, Mark—a former student and coach.

In September 2013, wireless internet access was added, and a World Language program was introduced. Today, students are taught Spanish, French, and Latin at various grade levels.