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Cardinal O'Hara High School is a Franciscan, co-educational college preparatory high school with an enrollment of approximately 250 students. As a registered school with the New York State Board of Regents, our commitment to academic excellence helps each student grow intellectually and spiritually so that each may realize his or her full potential. Our values have laid the foundation for the success of many COHS alumni.
Cardinal O'Hara respects the individuality of each student. Trust, openness, and acceptance provide an atmosphere true education can take place, ensuring the academic, spiritual, and social development of each student.
The focal points of an education at COHS are:
FAITH
Four years of religious education are complemented by opportunities for prayer, retreats, and participation in service projects. COHS students demonstrate a commitment to the community. Each student must complete a minimum of 35 hours in approved community service projects per year. In 2007, COHS students completed more than 10,000 hours of community service across Western New York.
KNOWLEDGE
We offer a variety of course options, ranging from non-regents electives through Advanced Placement and college-level classes. Students can choose from a wide range of electives in fine arts and technology programs. To ensure success, COHS offers an innovative approach to education by utilizing a single-gender format for core freshmen courses. In addition, we are one of the first schools in New York to re-institute a four-year Latin program.
TRADITION
Former Bishop John Cardinal O'Hara's dream was memorialized in a special way with the opening of Cardinal O'Hara High School in 1961. The ideals of human understanding and human needs are hallmarks of this great institution; which speaks to the very heart and spirit that makes COHS one of Western New York's most respected and unique Catholic schools.
OPPORTUNITY
With an average class size of 15, and a student to faculty ratio of 9:1, COHS offers students more direct interaction with faculty and greater personal attention. Not only do our students succeed in the classroom, boasts athletic champions. The Hawks football team recently won its fourth straight Monsignor Martin League Division Trophy, and the remaining 23 varsity and junior varsity teams are among the best in the area, helping to raise the bar for sportsmanship across Western New York. More than 90% of COHS students are active in athletics and/or co-curricular activities, including our Fine Arts Department, which includes Theater, Drama, Band, Chorus, Art, and Dance.
LIFE
In 2009, COHS seniors had a 100% graduation rate, more than twice the rate of Buffalo Public Schools. The class of 2009 also earned more than $5.6 million in scholarships. Our commitment to academic excellence, together with our core values rooted in the Franciscan tradition, prepares COHS students for a lifetime of learning, service, and success.
For more information, contact Daniel Schiesser, Director of Enrollment Management, at (716) 695-2600, ext. 307 or Eileen Klipfel, Enrollment Associate, at (716) 695-2600, ext. 333.
