History
Founded in 1819 by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, Bethlehem High School is the oldest school still operating in the Archdiocese as well as the state of Kentucky public or private. Throughout its history, Bethlehem has served at various times as an elementary school and a secondary school for girls. Today, Bethlehem is the only Catholic high school outside Jefferson County and one of only two co-educational high schools in the Archdiocese.
Throughout its history, Bethlehem has been lauded for its excellent academics, caring community spirit, and faith-filled environment. Despite its relatively small size, Bethlehem makes an outsized contribution to vocations to the priesthood and religious life in our Church, with numerous alumni becoming sisters, priests, and deacons.
Bethlehem High School describes itself as a Christ-centered college preparatory school built upon Catholic teachings that empowers students’ spiritual, academic, social and moral development. The longevity can be directly related to a solid foundation of faith, a commitment to academic excellence, a culture of service and compassion in our community, and the ability to adapt to the changing times of our world. Bethlehem extends its outreach to Bardstown and Nelson County as well as to 9 other counties and over 35 parishes in the Archdiocese.
Why 2 Mascots?
The Eagles mascot originated with St. Joseph Preparatory School. John Newcomb, a senior at the time, submitted the Eagles idea in a school-sponsored contest and won $5 for the winning entry. When the boys' teams began at Bethlehem in the 70’s, they carried on the Eagles tradition.
Although there are many news articles detailing girls’ basketball games from the early 20th century, there does not appear to be a team mascot until 1970 when Vi Hoffman, player Mary Hoffman’s mother, suggested “Banshees”. The players voted from a list of contenders, and Banshees it became. In Irish and Scottish folklore, a Banshee is a spirit woman who comes to give a warning wail of an impending demise.