Business Details
Your Trusted Catholic Education for Students
Serra High School was founded on the principles of the Catholic, Franciscan tradition, dedicated to nurturing students' spiritual, academic, and personal growth. Our mission aligns with Christ's call to Saint Francis of Assisi to 'rebuild my Church' by cultivating leaders who embody Gospel values. We prioritize individualized education through a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship. Our curriculum integrates rigorous academics with moral development, preparing students to earn up to 73 college credits while fostering service-oriented leadership. Collaborating with parents, we emphasize respect, dignity, and intellectual curiosity as cornerstones of our educational philosophy.With 21 represented school districts, our diverse community engages in 20+ organizations and 15 PIAA-affiliated athletic programs. Teachers serve as role models, guiding students to recognize and apply their unique gifts for the betterment of the Church and society. Our 100% graduation rate reflects our commitment to equipping students with the ethical foundation and academic skills needed for lifelong success. We operate under the belief that Christ-centered education transforms individuals into agents of positive change. Through retreats, liturgical events, and community service, we instill Franciscan values of humility, compassion, and stewardship.
Services
College Credit Programs
Spiritual Development
Athletic Programs
Extracurricular Activities
Academic Support
College Preparation
Religious Education
Student Mentorship
Community Service Programs
Career Guidance
Highlights and features
- We offer a 100% graduation rate with college credit programs
- Our 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized mentorship
- We integrate Catholic values with academic excellence
- We provide 20+ student organizations and 15 athletic programs
- Our curriculum develops moral decision-making grounded in Gospel values
What people say
Faith-integrated curriculum
Dedicated teachers
Strong college preparation
Supportive community
Spiritual growth opportunities
Services
College Credit Programs
Our College in High School Program enables students to earn up to 73 college credits through partnerships with accredited institutions. This initiative combines academic rigor with cost efficiency, preparing students for higher education while reducing future tuition expenses. The program maintains alignment with our mission of developing intellectually capable and morally grounded graduates.
Spiritual Development
Through daily religious instruction and liturgical events like the October 4 Day of Giving, we cultivate spiritual growth rooted in Franciscan values. Students participate in retreats, Masses, and service projects that emphasize Christ's teachings while developing leadership skills for church and community engagement.
Athletic Programs
Our 15 PIAA/WPIAL-affiliated athletic programs promote teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. Students compete in various sports while balancing academic responsibilities, reflecting our commitment to holistic development. The programs emphasize character building alongside physical excellence within a faith-based framework.
Extracurricular Activities
With 20+ social, cultural, and service-oriented groups, students develop leadership and collaboration skills. Activities range from academic competitions to community service initiatives, all designed to nurture individual talents while fostering commitment to the common good through Franciscan principles.
Academic Support
Our 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized academic guidance from educators who serve as Gospel value role models. Intervention specialists and college counselors provide tailored support, helping students overcome challenges while maintaining our 100% graduation rate and college acceptance record.
People
Robert Childs
Principal
Robert Childs leads academic operations with 20+ years of educational leadership experience. He oversees curriculum development and faculty mentorship while maintaining the school's Franciscan mission through community engagement initiatives.
Timothy Chirdon
President
Timothy Chirdon directs institutional strategy and long-term vision. With a background in Catholic education administration, he ensures financial sustainability while expanding college credit program partnerships and maintaining accreditation standards.
Cara DeSalvo
Athletic Director
Cara DeSalvo manages 15 PIAA-affiliated sports programs and science department operations. She emphasizes character development through athletics, organizing community service initiatives that align competitive excellence with Franciscan values of humility and service.
Jan Fox
Dean of Academic Affairs
Jan Fox oversees curriculum implementation and faculty development. With expertise in world language instruction, she coordinates college credit program integration while ensuring academic standards align with the school's spiritual and moral formation objectives.
Brittany Fettis
Development Coordinator
Brittany Fettis manages fundraising initiatives including the annual Day of Giving. She builds community partnerships that support student scholarships and facility improvements while promoting the school's mission through outreach programs.
Questions
What makes Serra Catholic's education unique?
Our Catholic, Franciscan tradition integrates faith with academics, offering college credits, spiritual development, and service learning in a 13:1 student-to-teacher environment.
How does the school support college preparation?
Through our College in High School Program offering 73 credits, personalized counseling, and rigorous curriculum aligned with university admission requirements.
What extracurricular opportunities exist?
We offer 20+ organizations including 15 athletic teams, academic clubs, and service groups focused on community engagement and leadership development.
How are parents involved in education?
Parents partner with teachers as primary educators through regular communication, volunteer opportunities, and participation in spiritual formation activities.
What spiritual development programs are available?
Daily religion classes, monthly Masses, retreats like the Senior Retreat, and service projects help students grow in faith while applying Franciscan values.
How does the school measure success?
Our 100% graduation rate and college acceptance reflect academic achievement, while community service hours and spiritual growth metrics demonstrate holistic development.
