By Felicia L. Niven
Tucked along a quiet corridor, beyond pristine white walls that have witnessed generations of passing students, sits the paneled office of Holy Spirit High School’s Head of School, Michael McGhee. Simple and unassuming, the space once belonged to Father Batisti—a figure whose leadership left a lasting imprint on the school during McGhee’s own years as a student. Today, McGhee occupies that same office, a full-circle moment that feels equal parts humbling and purposeful.
“It still stops me sometimes,” McGhee says. “I never imagined I’d be sitting here one day. But it reminds me how experiences along the way can shape you in ways you never expect.”
That sense of calling has been quietly forming for much of McGhee’s life.
Raised in Ventnor in a close-knit family, McGhee grew up surrounded by both faith and friendly rivalry. His family was evenly divided between Atlantic City High School and Holy Spirit High School—a split that made for spirited conversations and unforgettable holiday gatherings. While his mother Christine, sister Kelly, and brother Danny attended Atlantic City High, McGhee joined his father, sister Shannon, and brother Ryan at Holy Spirit.
“I always knew I wanted to attend Holy Spirit,” he says. “There was something special about it—the tradition, the pride, and the chance to be part of something bigger than yourself as a Spartan.”
A multi-sport athlete who spent his childhood on football fields, basketball courts, and baseball diamonds, McGhee found that Holy Spirit reinforced the values he was already learning at home. “It became more than just a school,” he says. “It felt like a family. It shaped my work ethic, my mindset, and taught me how to lead, serve others, and value community.”
After graduating from Holy Spirit, McGhee headed to Rowan University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal law and justice with plans to pursue a career in law enforcement. Education, however, drew him in. He completed a master’s degree in special education and teacher of the handicapped certification from Jersey City State University, followed by a second master’s in administration and supervision from Montclair State University.
McGhee spent more than three decades in public education, serving as a teacher, coach, athletic director, assistant principal, supervisor, and principal at schools including Oakcrest and Cedar Creek. Then, in 2024, a phone call from his cousin Noel changed everything. An opportunity had opened at Holy Spirit—one that felt both unexpected and deeply meaningful.
“When I came back full-time, some things immediately felt familiar, while others felt completely new,” McGhee says with a smile. “The biggest difference? Air conditioning in the classrooms. No one’s complaining about that.”
On a recent tour of campus, McGhee moved easily through the building, greeting faculty and staff by name as he went. More than a few of those he introduced were former students—living proof of the deep alumni ties and enduring sense of connection that define Holy Spirit.
The campus itself tells a story of modern, student-centered education. Students transition from traditional classrooms into spaces that feel more like a college campus than a high school—lecture halls anchored by expansive digital screens, collaborative learning environments, and a professional-grade production studio complete with green screen technology. These state-of-the-art facilities reflect the Holy Spirit’s commitment to preparing students for a world that demands creativity, adaptability, and confidence.
Recent campus enhancements include the Patricia Parker Center for Educational Excellence for Students with Special Needs, the Joe and Gail Wilkins Leadership Center, upgrades to the Robert D. “Reds” Reynolds Performing Arts Center, and the Lou Paludi Spartan Way Alumni Arch. These are visible reminders of the collective generosity of alumni, families, and community partners.
“Our goal is to intentionally form young men and women of character whose lives reflect our Catholic values,” he says. “That is the Spartan Way. We want them prepared not just for college or careers, but for life.”
Faith formation remains at the heart of that effort. Through school Masses, retreats, prayer experiences, service opportunities, and guest speakers, students are encouraged to reflect, grow spiritually, and put faith into action. A morning program held three days a week further supports academic growth, leadership development, and service learning, while targeted seminars help freshmen transition to high school and guide juniors through post-secondary planning.
McGhee’s own days begin early, often with a 5 a.m. workout before arriving on campus by 7:30 a.m. He’s often at school until late in the day, returning for athletics, arts programs, and other activities. Leadership, McGhee says, is a 24/7 commitment—one made possible by the unwavering support of his wife, Dawn, an educator of more than 34 years. “My family is my foundation and the reason I strive to lead with integrity, balance, and perspective,” he says. “I try to live by the same standards we teach our students.”
For McGhee, the Spartan Way is not a slogan—it is a lived philosophy. It is evident in the way students support one another, in the pride carried by alumni long after graduation, and in a school culture that insists on excellence without losing its soul. It reflects the belief that education should shape not only what students know, but who they become.
Nearly a century after Holy Spirit first opened its doors, the mission remains steadfast and the future bright. Guided by faith, strengthened by community, and led by someone who once walked its halls as a student, Holy Spirit High School continues to form leaders ready to meet the world with purpose. That is the Spartan Way—and it is a legacy still being written.
