History

Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School opened its doors in 2004 with 80 freshmen and a bold, hope-filled vision: to provide young people from families with limited income access to a rigorous, Catholic, college-preparatory education enhanced by real work experience. Every student at NDCR earns part of the cost of their education through the Corporate Work Study Program, gaining professional experience, confidence, and a sense of possibility that transforms futures across generations.

Guided by the mission of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur — women dedicated for more than 200 years to educating those who are poor and marginalized — NDCR was founded within a growing movement in Catholic education. In the late 1990s, the first school of the Cristo Rey Network opened in Chicago with one revolutionary idea: students from limited-income families could help fund their own education through meaningful, professional work. The model was so successful that it grew into a national network committed to faith, access, opportunity, and college success. In 2004, NDCR proudly became the Network’s 11th school — opening its doors in Lawrence in the former St. Mary’s High School building — carrying forward the Cristo Rey mission for families in the Merrimack Valley.

As enrollment grew and the need for a permanent home became clear, NDCR entered into a landmark agreement in 2020 with the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary to purchase the lower five acres of the historic Edward F. Searles Estate in Methuen. Once part of the 19th-century “Pine Lodge” built by philanthropist Edward F. Searles, the estate remains one of Methuen’s most treasured landmarks—known for its elegant stone architecture, carriage paths, and sweeping grounds.

Today, the same estate where Gilded Age guests once gathered now echoes with the laughter, energy, and aspirations of 300 NDCR students. Their presence breathes new life into this historic land, weaving together a legacy of local philanthropy with a mission of education, service, and transformative opportunity.

Since its first graduation in 2008, NDCR has celebrated 100% college acceptance every single year. The school continues to walk with its students “to and through college,” ensuring they have the support they need to become graduates, professionals, and leaders across the Merrimack Valley and beyond.

NDCR’s story is one of faith, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student. At its heart, our school is a place where opportunity meets possibility. As we look ahead, we remain deeply committed to helping young people discover their strengths, pursue their dreams, and build futures once thought out of reach. Their courage, hope, and hard work continue to inspire the mission that guides us forward.