History

Our History

For more than 135 years, O'Hara Catholic School has been a cornerstone of Catholic education and an enriching presence in Eugene and the surrounding community. Founded in 1889 as the parish school of St. Mary Catholic Church in downtown Eugene, the school has a proud tradition of faith, academic excellence, and service.

In 1916, the school began a long and meaningful partnership with the Sisters of the Holy Names, who dedicated more than 70 years of service to educating generations of O'Hara students. Their commitment helped establish a strong foundation of Catholic education that continues to shape our mission today.

In 1968, the school moved to its current location on West 18th Avenue, a larger campus that was formerly home to St. Francis High School, and continued its mission as St. Mary School. In 1971, the school became the first area school in Oregon, expanding its reach beyond a single parish to serve students and families from multiple Catholic communities throughout the region.

In 1978, the school was renamed O'Hara Catholic School in honor of Archbishop Edwin Vincent O'Hara, a visionary leader who played a significant role in strengthening Catholic education throughout Oregon. Archbishop O'Hara was the first Superintendent of Catholic Schools in Oregon and was instrumental in establishing the first Catholic high school in Eugene. His dedication to the mission of Catholic education continues to inspire the work of O'Hara today.

As an area school, O'Hara Catholic School proudly serves families from Catholic parishes throughout Lane County, including St. Mary, St. Jude, St. Peter, St. Mark, St. Thomas More Newman Center, St. Alice, St. Helen, St. Catherine of Siena, St. Henry, and The Nativity of the Mother of God Ukrainian Catholic Church.

Over the years, O'Hara has evolved from a school primarily staffed by religious sisters to a community led by dedicated lay educators who continue the tradition of faith-filled teaching and service. Today, our faculty and staff are joined by priests and religious leaders who regularly visit classrooms and support our students' spiritual growth.

O'Hara Catholic School remains a ministry of St. Mary Catholic Church and continues its mission as a Preschool through 8th Grade school dedicated to forming students in faith, knowledge, character, and service. The school is accredited through the Western Catholic Educational Association and remains committed to preparing students to live their faith and make a positive impact in the world.