Catholic school was started in St. Andrew’s parish in 1889 by two laywomen. The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth came to serve the school in 1893. Classes were first held in the parish hall. Later, when St. Vincent's Home for Boys was established, classes were held there. In 1898, Ryan Hall was built, the gift of Mrs. Thomas Fortune Ryan. St. Andrew's was the only Catholic school in Roanoke until 1916 when Our Lady of Nazareth School opened on Campbell Avenue.

In 1931, a new high school building was dedicated. It now houses grades PK-2. In 1950, St. Andrew's High School merged with Our Lady of Nazareth High becoming Roanoke Catholic High School. New high school and gymnasium buildings were constructed in 1961-62.

In 1970-1971, St. Andrew's and Our Lady of Nazareth's Elementary Schools consolidated with grades 1-3 located on Campbell Avenue and grades 4-7 located in the former St. Andrew’s School. Later in 1973-1974, these two schools combined and were known as Roanoke Catholic Elementary School located near St. Andrew’s Church. In 1980-1981, a kindergarten was added to the elementary school. In 1985, Roanoke Catholic High and Roanoke Catholic Elementary became Roanoke Catholic School with two divisions, a Lower (K-7) and an Upper (8-12). In 1993, Roanoke Catholic Preschool opened in the facilities of Our Lady of Nazareth Church.

In August 1999, a multipurpose building was built. This building houses the chapel, media center, cafeteria, art and band rooms, computer and science labs, centralized offices, and classrooms. Eight additional classrooms were completed during the Spring of 2000. After operating for seven years off-campus, our preschool moved to the Hill in 2001.

Through several decades, Roanoke Catholic School benefited greatly from the dedication of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Although the Sisters no longer staff our school, equally dedicated personnel continue to provide the students of Roanoke Catholic School with a quality Catholic education.

ADULT VOLUNTEER COMMITMENT

At Roanoke Catholic School, parental involvement is crucial. Each family makes a commitment to “volunteer to work a minimum of 15 hours at Roanoke Catholic” during the school year (Financial Policies and Responsibilities form). Volunteering helps generate community spirit and assists in keeping costs to a minimum.

In-School Opportunities

The school welcomes the volunteer efforts of our parents. Parents may help in the office and in the media center during the day or with student activities after school. Often we also need help in the evenings or on weekends with a variety of school improvement projects. When volunteering, parents are asked to sign the Volunteer Book at the receptionist desk.

Fundraising Events

The school holds several major fundraising events each year. These events require a great deal of prior planning and preparation. Participation in these fundraising activities is expected of all members of the school community—students, parents, faculty, and staff.

Home and School Association

The Home and School Association provides strong support to the school. Parent/student programs and activities are planned throughout the year.

VIRTUS Training

All volunteers who are regularly involved with students (coaches, coaching assistants, media center aides, etc.) are required by the Diocese to agree to undergo a background check through the Virginia Department of Social Services, thus clearing them for such involvement. The appropriate forms are available in the school office.