History & Tradition
[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/1018088169/f83b8dba6d” css=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1733186189964{padding-top: 50px !important;}”]Saints Neumann Goretti High School’s rich history is deeply rooted in the traditions of South Philadelphia’s Catholic schools, including Southeast Catholic, St. Maria Goretti, St. John Neumann, and Bishop Neumann. These institutions built a shared mission of academic excellence, faith formation, and service, forming the foundation of the vibrant community we celebrate today.
Managed and staffed by Diocesan priests, laypersons, Norbertines, religious brothers, and over seven congregations of religious sisters—such as the IHM and SSJ orders—these schools established the spiritual traditions that continue to shape our culture.
Our story began in 1934 with the opening of Southeast Catholic High School at Seventh and Christian Streets. Renamed Bishop Neumann High School in 1956 to honor Bishop John Neumann, the school moved to its current location at 2600 Moore Street the following year.
Saint Maria Goretti Catholic High School for girls was founded in 1955 at 1736 S. 10th Street, where Saints Neumann Goretti still stands today. Goretti, staffed by religious sisters from various orders, emphasized academic excellence, faith, and service, inspiring generations of leaders through its rigorous curriculum and extracurricular programs like The Crown Newspaper and The Diadem Yearbook.
Bishop Neumann High School for boys became Saint John Neumann High School in 1978, honoring the first American bishop to be canonized. Known for its commitment to academic rigor, faith, and service, Neumann High School instilled Catholic values in its students, preparing them for success in their communities and beyond.
In 2004, St. Maria Goretti and St. John Neumann merged to form Saints Neumann Goretti High School, uniting their proud legacies. Named for two beloved saints, the school continues to provide a high-quality Catholic education that nurtures students spiritually, academically, and socially.
Drawing on the strengths of its predecessors, Saints Neumann Goretti remains committed to developing well-rounded, faith-filled leaders. Our alumni, who carry forward the values instilled by Southeast Catholic, St. Maria Goretti, St. John Neumann, and Bishop Neumann, are a testament to the lasting impact of our Catholic education.
As we look to the future, Saints Neumann Goretti remains an anchor institution in South Philadelphia, honoring its history while preparing future generations to lead and serve. With the support of our alumni, donors, and community, we proudly link tradition to today, providing transformative educational experiences rooted in faith and excellence.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]