Our School & History

"I do have to say—one never can quite quantify just how St. Rita prepares its students for the high school years and beyond until their child enters those high school doors. Both of my children are having two completely different high school experiences, yet both are equally prepared because of their time at St. Rita!" 

Located in Hamden, Connecticut, St. Rita's School currently serves students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade in a fun and nurturing learning environment. Drawing from our Catholic values and a strong sense of community, we offer a well-rounded curriculum that educates the whole child.

Our History

St. Rita School officially opened on September 5, 1956, with 240 children enrolled in first through fourth grade and staffed by the teaching Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. By the third year, our total enrollment grew to 440 students in grades one through six. The first eighth grade class graduated in 1961.

In the fall of 1980, a half-day kindergarten was added as a pilot program and because of its success became part of the regular school program the following year. In 1987 the Dominican Sisters from Columbus, Ohio, began their mission here. In 1990 the school expanded its kindergarten program to offer both half-day and full-day sessions, and in 1992, we added a pre-school program for three and four-year-olds. In 1995, the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus came to St. Rita and continue to serve our school today. 

Over the years, we have seen many changes to the school, including two new classrooms, a handicap entrance, a fully equipped science lab, a new art room, and a renovated library and media center. In 2007 we implemented a major technology upgrade that included Chrome based desktop computers, iPads, smart boards, and wireless internet access throughout the school.

We have been blessed at St. Rita School with dedicated pastors, principals, and faculty as well as unwavering support from both the school and parish communities. The founding mission of the school continues to guide the administration, faculty, parents, and over 430 students as they strive for academic excellence and ever deepening fidelity to their Catholic Christian commitment.