HISTORY OF LORETTO HIGH SCHOOL
Loretto High School, a college preparatory school for young women, is an independent Catholic high school founded in 1955 by the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM). The order owns and operates Loretto High School . The school is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), and by the Western Catholic Education Association (WCEA). Loretto is a member of the Counsel for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), Western Association of College Admission Counselors (WACAC), National Association of College Admission Counselors, National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) and the National Coalition of Girls Schools (NCGS).
Originally situated on a five-acre parcel of land near El Camino Avenue and Bell Street in urban Sacramento, Loretto was initially built to accommodate 400 students. From 1960–1990 additional facilities were built including a library, gymnasium, cafeteria, additional classrooms, a computer laboratory, and a college-counseling center. By the early 1990’s it became apparent that additional and modernized facilities were needed to carry out the mission and serve the student population.
On November 3, 1998, the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary purchased the Cook property. Possession was taken of the five acres adjacent to the current Loretto campus on December 8, 1998, and the Campaign for Loretto: Expansion for Excellence was launched. The 8.5 million dollar expansion provided a science center including four classroom laboratories, a performing arts facility, administrative offices, a soccer field, additional parking, renovated visual arts wing, and remodeling of original buildings. In twenty-four months the campus doubled in size and increased enrollment 30%.
The 2001-2002 school year was a time to “settle in.” The new Loretto campus was dedicated in September. The old bell system gave way to “chimes” and the faculty increased to accommodate the increased enrollment. The Principal traveled to Calcutta India to represent Loretto at an IBVM International educational conference. A proactive approach to preventing drug/alcohol use on campus was put into place using non-aggressive, scent-trained detection canines. Growing pains were experienced as we juggled “space-use” expectations.
2003-2004 was highlighted with the historic re-unification of The North American and Irish branches of The Institute of The Blessed Virgin Mary. With this step Loretto, Sacramento now is part of a world-wide educational system. The reunited branch totals over 1,000 sisters in Loretto schools around the world educating 75,000 students. New websites helped with parent-school communication and on-line purchasing of books.
2005-2006 will be remembered for The 50 th Anniversary celebration. 1,200 invited guests celebrated Loretto history in a liturgical celebration and reception held on campus. The Principal and Service Director attended the International Mary Ward conference in Azpeitia , Spain . 150 representatives from 24 countries met to share justice and peace efforts in Loretto schools world-wide. Loretto athletes were Division IV Basketball Champions for the first time in school history. Loretto Endowment exceeded the million dollar mark with all proceeds continuing to support financial aid for students in need. Loretto Chamber Choir performed at The Mondavi Center in a benefit concert series.
The 2007-2008 school year opened with a new Principal, Mrs. Jocelyn Barboza. The major fall events of Fall Gala, Back-To-School Night and our school musical made for a crowded calendar including our W.A.S.C. visitation. The Class of 2008 is preparing to graduate as Pope Benedict visits the United States in the spring.
Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM) Generalate site
Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM) Province site