About Shaw
School Profile
There’s so much to discover about Archbishop Shaw–here’s a few highlights:
Our Heritage
Archbishop John William Shaw’s leadership in the Archdiocese of New Orleans from 1918-1934 significantly impacted the Westbank Catholic community. During this period, many churches and schools were established, including Hope Haven Institute—an orphanage for boys staffed by the Salesians of Don Bosco, whose mission is to serve the poor and young through the Gospel.
In 1962, Archbishop Joseph Rummel dedicated a new high school on the West Bank, naming it after Archbishop Shaw. The school was built on the 72-acre plot previously used by Hope Haven. Starting as a small complex, Archbishop Shaw High School consistently grew in both admissions and infrastructure, always providing an environment supporting students’ comprehensive development.
Over 60 years, the school has expanded to include 4 academic buildings, 4 sports facilities, and a swimming pool. The main building underwent significant renovation in 2015-16, with updates to floors, ceilings, lighting, and central AC. Recent additions include a new football stadium and a full-sized chapel. Technology like Smart Boards and student Chromebooks have enhanced the learning environment, reflecting the school’s commitment to educational advancement.
Archbishop John W. Shaw, the eighth Archbishop of New Orleans, was appointed by Pope Benedict XV. His strong interest in the Westbank led Archbishop Joseph Rummel to name the area’s Catholic high school for boys in his honor.
Frequently Asked Questions
IMPORTANT NOTICE
The schools of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, Louisiana, admit students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at its schools. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, disability, national or ethnic origin in administration of their educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. Additionally, in compliance with Title IX of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, no person in the schools of the Archdiocese of New Orleans shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, or be denied the benefits of or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity except as permitted under said Title IX. This policy applies to all schools which are under Catholic Archdiocesan auspices.
All students are admitted to the school with the understanding and on the condition that they will be able to meet all requirements of school life, including academic requirements, behavior requirements, and financial requirements.