About Us

History of St. Dominic School

St. Dominic School, located in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The school was founded on November 9, 1924, four years after the establishment of St. Dominic Parish in 1921. Its history is intertwined with the development of its parish and community.

1924School founded
1925Doors opened
100+Years of service
250Students today

1921
A parish begins under canvas

In the spring of 1921, two lots were purchased on Merton Avenue in Eagle Rock, where tents were erected to serve as a temporary place of worship. On October 16, 1921, Fr. Francis Driscoll, O.P., the first pastor, offered the inaugural Mass in this makeshift setting.
1924
St. Dominic School is founded

Recognizing the need for a parochial school in the growing Eagle Rock area, the Dominican Fathers initiated the project. They sought assistance from the Dominican Sisters of the Congregation of the Most Holy Name, San Rafael, who responded to the call for educators. The school was founded on November 9, 1924.
1925
Four teachers, one hundred students

A building was constructed on the northeast corner of Maywood and Merton Avenues to house the school and the church. Dedicated on February 24, the school officially opened on September 8, 1925 with four teachers and approximately one hundred students, in four classrooms each accommodating two grade levels.
1941
The old church becomes classrooms

As the student population grew, the need for additional space became apparent. Following the completion of a new church building, the original church structure was repurposed to provide extra classrooms for the expanding school.
1953
Four brick classrooms added

Four brick classrooms were added to accommodate the growing student population.
1964
A full first through eighth grade

The school reached an enrollment of 720 students and became a complete first through eighth-grade school with two classes for each grade.
1992
Kindergarten opens

A Kindergarten class was added.
1996
Science, art, library and computers

The Science/Art and Library/Computer classrooms were established.
2012
Preschool program established

The preschool program was established.
Today
A century of Community, Faith and Education

The school now has approximately 250 preschool through eighth-grade students, honoring its legacy while embracing modern educational practices to prepare students for the future.

Continued commitment to education

Throughout its history, St. Dominic School has remained committed to providing quality Catholic education, adapting to the evolving needs of its community while upholding its foundational values. The school’s mission emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and the development of a compassionate community.