St. Patrick School Marks 40 Years in Current Building

McCOOK, Neb. – St. Patrick Elementary School is celebrating 40 years in its current building, which first opened its doors to students on August 28, 1985.

Catholic education in McCook began in 1918, but by the early 1980s, it was clear a new facility was needed. Parishioners raised $287,000 toward the project, with the remainder covered by the Mary Brady Estate. Construction began in 1984 and wrapped up the following year. When the time came to move, about 120 volunteers carried desks, books, and supplies from the old school to the new one — finishing the job in under two hours.

Since then, the school has continued to adapt while holding on to its close-knit spirit. The former chapel is now a classroom, a reading intervention space was added, and in recent years students gained a new companion: Patrick Norman, the school’s therapy dog.

Today, St. Patrick remains the only Catholic school west of Holdrege, serving preschool through eighth grade students. Though smaller in size, the school prides itself on strong academics, faith formation, and a family-like atmosphere that has touched generations of McCook families.

As the building turns 40, parishioners and alumni alike are reflecting on the thousands of students who have walked its halls — and on the community support that has helped the school thrive for more than a century.

Courtesy Photo- Patrick Norman, the school’s therapy dog.