When Father Louis Van Straelan arrived in 1879 as the new pastor he recognized the need for a Cathilic school in the community. In September 1882 Sacred Heart opened its new schoolhouse to twelve students in grades one through eight. Father Van Straelan expected any pastor that followed him would continue his efforts, and that the school would grow with the community. Unfortunately when he was transferred the decision was to not replace him with a resident pastor. His departure ended his school program.