In 1931, the Clerics of St. Viator assumed charge of St. Patrick Parish, and for 25 years the Viatorians and Sisters of Loretto educated students at the school on Hickory Street in Kankakee.

The closing of St. Joseph Seminary would add to the student body, and in 1963, through the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. Romy Hammes, construction began on the rectangle addition to the circular building.

Viatorian priest Father Erwin Savela was hired as principal of Bishop McNamara High School and continued in that position until 1988.

After 10 years, once again because of the decreasing number of priests available, the Augustinians ended their contract with Bishop McNamara High School and James Laurenti was named principal.

Graduation requirements consist of the accumulation of twenty-three academic credits and sixty hours of approved community service.

The school currently offers Advanced Placement courses in English Literature, Chemistry, Spanish Language, United States History, Macroeconomics, Psychology, Calculus, and Physics.

In addition to its college preparatory curriculum, the school maintains a relationship with the Kankakee Area Career Center which offers students an opportunity to earn credit in industrial technology, with courses ranging from cosmetology, drafting, firefighting, EMS training, welding, and law enforcement training.

The school currently sponsors teams for men and women in basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis, and track & field.