Adapted from St. Andrew Avellino Parish History
Our journey began in 1924 when the cornerstone of the original school was blessed, setting the foundation for generations of learning and growth.
On September 25, 1925, the school officially opened its doors under the guidance of the Dominican Sisters of St. Mary of the Springs (now known as the Dominican Sisters of Peace) from Ohio. Mother M. Bernardine Lynam O.P. took on the role of the school's first principal, setting the foundation for its educational mission and values. The initial group included Sisters Mary Bernard Burke, Anna Maria Murray, Madeleine Walsh, and Bernice Hedderson (who later served as principal).
When the school was built, it served grades one through four, and it gradually expanded its grade offerings, with the upper grades added in the early 1930s.
The Dominican Sisters continued to teach at Saint Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy for over six decades. Their tenure ended in 1989 when the school appointed its first lay principal, James G. Hayden. This transition marked a significant change in the school's leadership and reflected broader shifts in Catholic education.
In the same year as the school's opening, the Mothers' Club was established, marking a significant milestone in the institution's history. This organization was one of the first of its kind in the entire country, demonstrating the school's pioneering approach to parent involvement in education.
The establishment of the Mothers' Club showcased the school's commitment to family involvement from the very beginning. It played crucial roles in supporting the school, organizing events, and fostering a sense of community among parents and educators. By creating one of the first Mothers' Clubs in the country, the school positioned itself at the forefront of educational innovation and parent-school partnerships, setting a precedent for future decades of community engagement and support.
In 1933, the school underwent significant expansion to accommodate growing enrollment and educational needs. This expansion included:
These developments marked a pivotal moment in the school's history, reflecting its commitment to providing quality education and facilities for its students.
In 1955, the Athletic Association was founded, paving the way for countless children to engage in sports. Over the years, thousands have donned the team colors, celebrating victories and amassing hundreds of trophies and championships. Many of these young athletes have continued their passion for sports in high schools and colleges, demonstrating the association's vital role in nurturing talent and sportsmanship.
On January 6, 1961, groundbreaking commenced for a major expansion of the school. By September 17, 1962, the addition was completed, significantly enhancing the school's facilities. This expansion, coupled with the modernization of the original building, doubled the school's capacity and introduced vital new amenities, including a cafeteria and a gym-auditorium. These improvements greatly enriched the educational experience and provided students with better resources for learning and community activities.
In 1981, the school gym was named in honor of John Coster and Robert Ehrhardt, recognizing their years of unwavering service to athletic programs for the community's youth. Their commitment has inspired generations and solidified their legacy within the community.
The St. Andrew Avellino School Alumni Association was established in 2007, creating a robust network of former students. Today, it boasts over 3,000 members, showcasing the lasting bonds formed through shared experiences in athletics and education. This rich history reflects a vibrant community dedicated to fostering athletic excellence and lifelong connections.
On May 19, 2015, St. Andrew Avellino School in Flushing, Queens, officially transitioned to become St. Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy. This change was part of a larger initiative by the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens to transform their Catholic schools into academies. The initiative aimed to strengthen Catholic education in the area by converting traditional parish schools into academies. This strategic move was designed to ensure the long-term sustainability and viability of Catholic education in the region.
Key aspects of the initiative included:
The transition to academy status allowed St. Andrew Avellino to benefit from a more robust organizational structure while continuing to provide high-quality Catholic education to students in the Flushing community. This change reflected the Diocese's commitment to adapting its educational institutions to meet the evolving needs of students and families in the 21st century.