School History
Through a divine vision, our founding fathers transformed a peach orchard into Holy Cross in 1957. Sixty-seven years later, our school continues to inspire students to walk in wisdom and in holiness as they become resilient leaders and lifelong learners.
1957
The Beginning
Holy Cross opened its doors on September 4th, 1957. Our school was dedicated to Reverend Paul A. Cartier (Principal) on November 17th, 1957 by the Most Reverend George W. Ahr (Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton).
1961
First Graduating Class
The Holy Cross Class of 1961 makes history as the first students to walk across the stage and become Lancer Alumni.
1990
Facility Expansion
The first expansion of the facility was completed, with the addition of two gymnasiums, a weight room, and a visual and performing arts corridor leading into classrooms.
2006
Media Center
The library was transformed into the Gerald Finsen Media Center and blessed by Bishop John M. Smith on January 31st, 2006.
2018
A New Beginning
Alumni sought out to preserve Catholic secondary education in Burlington County after receiving notice from the Catholic Diocese of Trenton that Holy Cross would close. Alumni and our Founding Board transitioned our school to an independent Catholic high school.
2022
President-Principal Model
A President-Principal governance model is adopted to account for the incredible growth of our school since its transition to an independent Catholic high school in 2018. Mr. Alex Pracher is welcomed as the first president in school history.
2024
Renewed Vision & Mission
President Robert DeMasi is hired as our school's second president and renews the vision and mission of Holy Cross Preparatory Academy. Our vision is to serve as the premier Catholic institute for education and leadership in South Jersey and beyond. Our mission is to inspire young men and women to become resilient leaders and lifelong learners through wisdom and holiness.
2025
A Vision for the Future
President Robert DeMasi and our Board of Trustees launch a Strategic Plan to create a roadmap that connects our Mission to our Vision. This highly collaborative planning process included hundreds of constituents. Evidence-based data was utilized to establish objectives and SMART goals within the following eight domains: Mission and Catholic Identity, Governance and Leadership, Admissions and Marketing, Advancement and Alumni Relations, Finance and Business Operations, Academics, Student Life, and Facilities
