- OLVCS K-8
- History
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History of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Schools:
Preschool, Elementary, and MiddleOn September 19, 1963, Our Lady of Victory Catholic School opened its doors as part of then-pastor of OLV Church, Monsignor Patrick Fleming’s, response to the needs of Catholic families in the State College area. OLVCS initially only offered grades 1-4 but quickly expanded to include grades 5 and 6, as well as Kindergarten.
OLVCS is blessed to include the Sisters of Saint Joseph (Baden, PA) as part of its history. Until 1980, these religious served as both administrators and faculty at OLVCS. These sisters lived in the convent adjacent to the school.
In mid-1990’s, it was decided to repurpose the vacated convent building into a preschool. Consequently, extensive renovations were done to convert the space into bright cheery classrooms and learning centers, where “learning and fun come together.” Welcoming vestiges of the Sisters of St. Joseph remain in the building, as heartening reminders of the dedicated religious for whom it was originally built.
In 1994, OLV Preschool opened its doors. The program quickly expanded to include a variety of acclaimed educational programs for children ages 2 ½ to 5 years old. More recently, in response to the contemporary needs of parents and children, the preschool program expanded to include a dedicated Pre-K curriculum and extended day option.
In 2002, the original OLVCS building was enlarged to include a two-story Middle School Wing. This extensive addition resulted in customized classrooms, a designated science laboratory, and an elevator. Beginning with a small inaugural 7th grade class, the Middle School (6th-8th grade) has grown to capacity.
Offering Pre-K through 8th grade, OLVCS is dedicated to Jesus’ mother, Mary. Our Lady of Victory is the title given to her by Pope St. Pius V following the victory over the Turks in the Battle of Lepanto (1571). This victory is attributed to intercession of Mary through the rosary. Each year, on October 7th, the OLVCS students, staff and faculty celebrate Our Patroness, our school and blessings they bring to our community. This celebration is called OLV Day.
For over 50 years, OLVCS has been providing high-quality Catholic education to children from preschool through 8th grade. It is clear that today OLVCS' exemplary community and curriculum continue Monsignor Flemings’ vision of promoting the knowledge and love of God and offering a vital contribution to our community, state, and nation.