History

Serra Catholic High School was founded in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, on September 5th, 1961, within the Diocese of Pittsburgh, with an initial enrollment of 89 young men. Serra was named after Father Junipero Serra, O.F.M., Franciscan founder of 22 mission churches in California. The Franciscan Order of Friars Minor of the Province of the Immaculate Conception administered the school from 1961 through 2000, and the Franciscans Third Order Regular assumed leadership from 2000 through 2004. Serra served only young men until 1972, when the decision was made to merge Mon Yough Catholic High School with Serra to create a coeducational institution.

 

In 2007, Serra became a Pennsylvania non-profit corporation under the direction of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. At that time, we gained a dedicated Board of Directors whose wisdom and guidance will help ensure Serra’s future for the next half century. Serra continues to thrive with students who represent virtually every socioeconomic level.