Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Private Catholic High School in Tonawanda, NY
Established in 1961, we are a Franciscan-based college preparatory school dedicated to nurturing academic excellence and moral integrity. Our 17-acre campus in Tonawanda, NY, offers personalized learning through small class sizes and a co-educational environment. With state-of-the-art resources including 1:1 laptops and STEAM facilities, we prepare students for college and life beyond academics. Our faculty combines professional development with inclusive teaching methods to foster individual growth. Over 90% of students participate in extracurricular activities spanning athletics, fine arts, and community service.Rooted in Catholic values, we emphasize service to others through partnerships with local organizations. Our graduates achieve a 100% college acceptance rate while maintaining leadership roles in their communities. We maintain traditions like the annual Greccio performance and Hawk-tion fundraiser to strengthen school spirit. Our facilities include a 900-seat performing arts center and athletic fields supporting 28+ competitive teams.
Services
College preparatory programs
Extracurricular activities
Community service programs
Athletic training
Performing arts education
Details
- Year established: 1961
Highlights and features
- We offer personalized education through small class sizes since 1961
- Our 100% college acceptance rate prepares students for academic success
- 28+ athletic teams compete in Monsignor Martin Association championships
- STEAM and Culinary Institute programs provide specialized learning opportunities
- Franciscan values guide community service initiatives benefiting Western NY organizations
What people say
Best choice
Prepared for college
Wonderful leadership
Quality students
Thrive academically
Services
College preparatory programs
Our rigorous curriculum includes Regents, Advanced Placement, and College Credit courses. Specialized programs in STEAM, Culinary Arts, and Business & Technology prepare students for higher education. Faculty receive annual professional development to maintain cutting-edge instruction methods.
Extracurricular activities
Over 90% of students participate in clubs, fine arts, or athletics. The Hawk Pride Players produce annual theatrical performances while 28+ sports teams compete regionally. Organizations like Good Samaritan Club foster leadership development through community engagement initiatives.
Community service programs
Rooted in Franciscan values, students complete service hours through local partnerships. Programs emphasize compassion and social responsibility, with annual initiatives supporting Western New York organizations and charitable causes.
Athletic training
28+ teams compete in the Monsignor Martin Athletic Association across fall, winter, and spring seasons. Modern facilities include strength training centers and well-maintained fields. The program emphasizes sportsmanship while celebrating multiple regional championships.
Performing arts education
The 900-seat Performing Arts Center hosts annual productions like Bone Chiller and Greccio performances. Students develop skills in acting, technical theater, and musical performance through dedicated fine arts curriculum and extracurricular opportunities.
Questions
What academic programs does Cardinal O'Hara offer?
We provide Regents, Advanced Placement, College Credit courses, STEAM, Culinary Institute, and Business & Technology programs with 1:1 laptop integration.
Are there extracurricular opportunities available?
Over 28 athletic teams, theater productions, and 90%+ student participation in clubs like Good Samaritan Club and Mastermind.
How does the school incorporate community service?
Franciscan values drive service learning through local partnerships, with students completing required hours supporting Western NY organizations.
What college preparation resources exist?
100% college acceptance rate with guidance counseling, NCAA Clearinghouse support, and academic programs designed for university success.
Can community members rent school facilities?
Yes, we offer rentals for our 900-seat theater, athletic fields, dining hall, and classrooms with event support available.
What spiritual development programs exist?
Campus Ministry programs include retreats, Masses, and service initiatives rooted in Catholic teachings and Franciscan traditions.
Reviews (5)
Whitwhit Leach
Sep 18, 2017
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Went there for my brothers football game and the students were very disrespectful of our cheerleaders. I wouldn't want my daughter to go here if that is how students act. The principle on the other hand is very nice and understanding.
Pj Hagerty
Jun 01, 2017
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My son started High School in Sweet Home - was bullied, had terrible grades, and few friends. Since coming to O'hara his Sophomore year he is a changed person, on track to graduate this spring!!
Maria Duic
Aug 03, 2016
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My daughter loves it here. She struggled a lot with the big class sizes in public school and has done so much better now that she has smaller classes and more individualized attention. The teachers and staff are all very welcoming too.
John Buscaglia
Jun 08, 2015
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Great discipline here.excellent education here.keeps at bay influences that can be negative for kids.a great education in a very nice atmosphere
Angelica Autumn
Sep 29, 2013
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THIS SCHOOL SUCKS!!!!!!!! they were ranked #69 in the last buisness first of WNY High Schools and to be honest the only reason they even ranked there is because they teach to pass the tests and exams they don't actually teach. They have few resources and extra curricular courses to enrich and well round your children they do not exist. They have a low budget music and art program. The administration can't take constructive feedback because they are not very well educated and frustrated that they lack the skills to create good programs so don't bother calling with an issue, complaint or suggestion
