History of Mercy High School

Recognizing the need for Catholic secondary education in Middlesex County, the Diocese of Norwich opened Mercy High School for girls and Xavier High School for boys in 1963.  

Mercy High School's first class of young women began school under the direction of the Sisters of Mercy in temporary quarters on the second floor of Xavier High School. On Palm Sunday, March 22, 1964, the groundbreaking ceremony for Mercy High School took place. City officials and members of the clergy from throughout Middlesex County assisted His Excellency the Most Reverend Vincent J. Hines, D.D., Bishop of Norwich. The blessing ceremony of the Mercy High School building was held in September 1965 and classes began at that facility. The original purpose of the school was "to aid in the formation of young Catholic women and to help prepare them to take their proper places in life, while being at the same time, practically conscious of their eternal destiny." 

Mercy High School continues to provide a Catholic education for young women within a community atmosphere. The purpose of their education is to prepare the students to meet the challenges of today's world. The spirit and teachings of the Sisters of Mercy and their founder, Catherine McAuley, are an integral part of the teaching and spirit of the Mercy High School community. A deep understanding of Catherine's vision of service and commitment to the education of young women has been fostered throughout the history of the school. 

Mercy High School is sponsored by the Diocese of Norwich and is affiliated with  Mercy Education System of the Americas. The Mercy Education System of the Americas was formally established July 1, 2017 to ensure Mercy sponsored, cosponsored, and affiliated education ministries are identified within the mission of the Catholic Church and are faithful to the charism, mission and core values of the Sisters of Mercy.

Mercy High School received initial accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges in 1973, and was reaccredited in 1983,1993, 2003, and 2013. As the Mercy High School community looks to the future it is proud of its rich heritage and traditions, and looks forward to continuing to educate young women for many years to come.