We Are Great Falls' Unified Catholic School
Welcome to St. Patrick's Academy, where we believe in the transformative power of Catholic education. Born from the combined strengths and cherished legacies of Holy Spirit Catholic School, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, and Great Falls Central Catholic High School, we represent a renewed commitment to academic excellence and spiritual formation in Great Falls.
Unique in our commitment to nurturing the whole child from Pre-K through 12th Grade, our mission is clear: to prepare students not just for college and careers, but for lives of purpose, service, and deep faith. As Bishop Fleming often emphasizes, the core mission of our Catholic schools is to "Go and make disciples."
Truth, Joy & Wonder
We strive to bring truth and beauty into every subject area, encouraging students to see Christ in everyone and everything.
Academic Excellence
We challenge students with a robust, Christ-centered college preparatory curriculum, including advanced courses and unique programs.
Faith Integration
Daily Mass and religion classes are integral parts of our curriculum, fostering deep and lasting spiritual development.
Holistic Development
We nurture not just intellect, but also moral character, compassion, and critical thinking to build well-rounded individuals.
Service-Oriented
We instill a lifelong spirit of service, integrating required service hours into our curriculum to promote active community participation.
Unified Community
We foster a strong, welcoming family of students, parents, and parishes, honoring the cherished legacies of our founding schools while growing together in Christ.
Kody Diekhans
West Campus Principal & Agent of Unity
Mr. Diekhans M.Ed. is a third-generation Our Lady of Lourdes and Central Catholic High School graduate. Born and raised in Great Falls, he has taught 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 6th grades, as well as middle and high school choir, and served as a music professor at the University of Providence. He is honored to serve St. Patrick's Academy and provide Catholic education for all who seek it.
Laura O'Neill
East Campus Director
A long-time supporter of Catholic education with 40 years of experience, Mrs. O'Neill's ministry is to provide children with a faith-filled love for Jesus and a strong foundation for learning. Having previously served as Assistant Principal and taught multiple subjects, including Fine Art, she currently teaches 7th & 8th grade Religion. She believes deeply in creating disciples through stewardship, empathy, and justice.
Brian Held
High School Principal
A lifelong Catholic and professional educator, Brian has a passion for Catholic education. Over a 34-year career, including 10 years as a principal, he has dedicated himself to student development. He holds a Master's of Educational Leadership from the University of Montana. Brian is thrilled to come out of retirement to actively pursue the mission of educating well-rounded students in an atmosphere of faith.
