In 1986, Chillicothe Bishop Flaget High School closed its doors, a decision that left a lasting mark on many who were impacted by the closing. However, the dream of bringing back a high school and the possibility of being able to once again offer an authentic Catholic education to high school students of the area is within reach.
As part of the Real Presence, Real Future planning process, the Diocese of Columbus identified the need for a high school in Ross County to provide an educational opportunity for students in Pickaway, Ross, Vinton, Pike, and Jackson counties. This recommendation was celebrated by many who have been working for many years to bring a high school back to the area.
After meeting with Bishop Earl Fernandes at the beginning of the 2022-23 school year, permission was granted to move forward with the planning process. This month, a meeting took place with architects to begin master planning process to make this dream a reality.
The current school building at 570 Parsons Ave. was constructed in 1962, but due to ongoing maintenance and good stewardship, the facility remains in excellent condition. An addition to the west side of the building would house six classrooms, which are considered adequate for the needs of the proposed high school.
Construction of an early childhood center on the property southwest of the current school, known locally as the Scothorn property, also is being considered. The center would house preschool through pre-kindergarten programs as well as additional early childhood options.
Organizers say they are excited about the opportunity to try something new, so they are looking at different curriculum models for the high school. At this point, there is freedom to build a program that will fit the needs of the students in the area.
The hope is to continue to offer the STEM-focused curriculum used in Bishop Flaget’s elementary and middle schools while providing a high school education tailored to the needs of students. With classes of 20-25 students, the high school hopes to be able to provide students with internships, mentorships, apprenticeship, college credit courses and career-focused educational opportunities.
The proposed high school would add one class at a time, starting with freshmen in fall 2024 and adding an additional class each year. The current plan does not include athletics, but students may continue to participate for their home districts and in their own communities.
Through the cooperation of communities, STEM partners and all of the area parishes, there is a strong belief that an authentic Catholic education can become a reality for families in south-central Ohio.
All of those involved in the project ask for prayers as they embark on this mission to reawaken the evangelizing mission of secondary Catholic education in the community.