Archbishop Stepinac High School opened in 1948 with a capacity of 1,360 youngsters. It began with Freshman and Sophomore years and reached its full complement in 1950.
school was established as the result of the generosity of the Catholic people of Westchester County and the fundraising efforts of the Catholic parishes of Westchester under the leadership of the Archbishop of New York, Francis Cardinal Spellman, and the educational officials of the Archdiocese.
Cardinal Spellman blesses the front doors of Stepinac at dedication ceremony.
The initial purpose of the school was to establish a full educational program with a diversity of subject choices leading to a well-rounded student. In addition to the college prep program. it was hoped that there would he a general course for those who wanted to finish their education with a high school commercial course providing skills for boys entering a trade. It was intended that these goals be achieved for all male student body, taught by an all-male faculty, almost entirely religious in makeup. The Administration of the school was in the hands of Diocesan priests, assisted by religious Brothers and an occasional layman in those early years.
The current Administration and Faculty of Stepinac is a broad mix of religious (both priests and nuns) and lay men and women. Presently, the high school draws its students predominantly from Westchester County and has evolved into a college preparatory school. It is expected that the school community be a fusion of Christian living and academic goals.
Archbishop Stepinac High School is a Roman Catholic secondary school committed to developing in its students a sense of Christian values which will refine their character, their personality, and their devotion to God, to the Church, and to the community in which they live.
The academic program is committed to helping the individual student fulfill his own intellectual potential. Parents, students, faculty, and administrators are expected to share, foster, and develop these goals. The joys and sorrows of every member as they work, play, study, and celebrate should reflect this community.
