St. Margaret of Cortona-St. Gabriel School was formed at the end of the 2022-23 academic year through the merger of St. Gabriel School with St. Margaret of Cortona School. These two schools combined have educated thousands of children in the Riverdale community for over 90 years, with a curriculum based on Catholic philosophy and values. Each school brings its rich traditions and a dedicated approach to serving the community.

St. Margaret of Cortona School grew from a parish school called Lavelle Hall, built in 1911 by the pastor of St. Margaret of Cortona Parish, Father Murray. This original building still stands with its large entry hall on the first floor, and the staircase that leads to the Grade 3 through Grade 8 wing on the third floor.

When Monsignor Joseph Doyle became pastor in 1925, he wanted the building to be a parish school. Monsignor asked the Sisters of Charity to staff St. Margaret of Cortona School. Sister Regina Concepta Mulhall, principal, and five other Sisters became the first faculty. As enrollment continued to grow, it was decided in 1928 to expand.  After World War II the population of Riverdale expanded rapidly, and there was a need for additional space. In 1955 another eight classrooms were built (known as the “New Building”) joining the “Old Building” on the Southwest side facing out toward Riverdale Avenue.

St. Gabriel School was established by the Archdiocese of New York and the Sisters of Charity in 1941 to serve children of the Riverdale community from three years of age through Grade 8. For eighty-two years, St. Gabriel's provided a creative and rigorous academic education in a faith-filled environment.

At St. Margaret of Cortona-St. Gabriel School, our students continue to receive the finest Catholic education available. Though changed in name, our mission remains the same: to provide a Christ-centered, academically excellent education for all students.

Read about the life of St. Margaret of Cortona
Read about St. Gabriel the Archangel