Mission & History

MISSION & VISION

Muskegon Catholic Central educates each student in spirit, mind and body by fostering personal excellence within the Catholic tradition.

HISTORY

Catholic education has been a strong tradition in Muskegon for over a century. This mission of providing a Christ-centered education for children began in 1871 when three members of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Order established the first parochial school at St. Mary’s Parish. Their shared vision with the Muskegon community continues to thrive more than 130 years later, as Muskegon Catholic Central educates young men and women with Christ as their focus and role model.

After its establishment in 1871, Catholic education thrived in the Muskegon area over the following century, leading to the opening of six additional parish elementary schools and three high schools. By the mid-20th century, as societal norms and educational standards evolved, many Catholics in the Muskegon area, along with their pastors, envisioned the creation of a central Catholic high school. This vision came to fruition at the start of the 1953-54 school year when Muskegon Catholic Central was founded, following numerous planning sessions and fundraising efforts. The school marked the first step toward developing a comprehensive, consolidated Catholic school system designed to meet the needs of local families. Over the years, there have been several expansions and updates, and eventually, all Catholic schools in the area joined the consolidation.

The parishes in the Muskegon area collaborate to support Muskegon Catholic Central. Our students come from Muskegon, Newaygo, and northern Ottawa counties. We provide a comprehensive educational program that includes a curriculum for preschool through twelfth grade, as well as a childcare program. We are grateful for the opportunity to carry on the rich tradition of Catholic education that has been established by many over the years.