The History of
The Apostle Saint Matthias

In the first chapter of the Acts of the Apostles, we see Peter—the rock on which Jesus built his Church (Matthew 16:18)—stand up “in the midst of the brothers” and urge them to propose a replacement for Judas, the apostle who betrayed Jesus with a kiss.

“Therefore, it is necessary,” Peter says, “that one of the men who accompanied us the whole time the Lord Jesus came and went among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day on which he was taken up from us, become with us a witness to his resurrection.”

“So, they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias.

Then they prayed, ‘You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this apostolic ministry from which Judas turned away to go to his own place.’”

“Then they gave lots to them, and the lot fell upon Matthias, and he was counted with the eleven apostles.”

-Wood, Karen. The Twelve Apostles.1956. P.J. Kennedy & Sons Publications.

The History of
Saint Matthias The Apostle School

  • 1960's

    1961: School opens with ninety first and second graders, staffed by the Sisters of Divine Providence and a plan is established to add one grade each year.


    1964: Four classrooms operating; three additional classes held in the parish hall.

    1965: Eight new classrooms added; library opens in March.

    1968: First graduating class with fifty-one students.

  • 1970's

    1970: Enrollment reaches 621 students in grades one through eight.

    1970: Students recognized for achievements in essays, spelling bees, science fairs, music festivals, and athletics.

    1970: School becomes known for offering a well-rounded Catholic education rooted in Christian values.

    1975: School band, led by Mr. Gregory Pitta, ranked number one Catholic elementary school band in the nation; performs at NCEA convention in Atlantic City.

    1978: Faculty and staff adopt a new goal focused on faith, community, responsibility, and living the Gospel message.

  • 1980's

    1981: Kindergarten added, making the school one of the few parochial K–8 programs in the area.

    1982: Computers added to the curriculum; eventually made available for all grade levels.

    1982: Extra-curricular traditions expand, including liturgies, field days, talent shows, Halloween parades, pumpkin contests, field trips, science fairs, spirit weeks, track meets, band concerts, debates, puppet shows, service drives, kite-flying contests, and picnics.