SJV School History

The Early Years

written by the late Suzanna Flynn, long-time parishioner

Saint John Vianney School was dedicated in August, 1949 by Bishop William Adrian. The school project was described in The Register as a "gigantic undertaking for a small parish." The article further stated that the structure cost as estimated $100,000 but owing to the donations of work and material, it actually cost $35,000. The men of our parish worked right along with the crew and did their share of the building. It was overseen by Mike Conley of our parish.

The school opened in August, 1949. The first teachers were Sisters Ann Thomas, Mary Albert, and Mary Anthony. Tuition was $5 a month. There were 28 pupils the first year, 12 Catholics and 16 non-Catholics. The parents transported the children, aided by Father George Rohling, our parish priest, who bought a second-hand station wagon for that purpose. The mothers donated much of the food and ran the cafeteria. Usually there were two mothers each day to prepare and serve lunch.

Our school continued to grow in numbers of students and reputation. In spite of all the work, we loved it. After fifteen years, it was forced to close due to a shortage of nuns. We parents are eternally grateful that our children had the advantage of eight years of parochial school education. It definitely helped them to excel in high school and college. We all hope that someday it can be reopened.

Recent History

Reopen it did! In 2003, under the direction of Fr. David Choby, now Bishop of Nashville, a new school building was constructed on the grounds of the original SJV school.