History

St. Paul's School was dedicated by Archbishop Hanna on June 30, 1916, to meet the educational needs of a large Irish, Italian, and German population in the area. The school was staffed by fifteen Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The parishioners of St. Paul's have always been very supportive of the school. At one time, it was the largest parochial school west of the Mississippi, with over 1,000 students enrolled.

With the shifting patterns in both the Church and civic communities, St. Paul's has become an even more multicultural school. It still maintains its high reputation and accommodates all pupils, regardless of race, color or creed. Because of many working parents, an extended care program was started in the late 1970s.

St. Paul's School teaches the appreciation of community, justice and love with an emphasis on respect for, and service to, others. The development of responsible Christian leadership is encouraged. Physical development of each child and health issues are addressed through curriculum. Catholic beliefs and traditions are taught daily.

In September 1991, St. Paul's School and Church were used in the movie Sister Act, starring Whoopi Goldberg. This was an event that transformed the school, as well as the surrounding neighborhood, and did a great deal to build community spirit.

Due to seismic retrofitting, the school was moved to an alternate site between the years 1994 and 1998. During this time the old building was demolished and a new school was built. The St. Paul's community came together to make the best of a bad situation during those years. It was with sheer delight that the students were moved back to our parish in January 1999 to a brand new school.

We have an excellent teaching staff. Their commitment to meeting the educational needs of our students is evidenced by their academic credentials, and their willingness to work above and beyond the call of duty for our students. Our teachers are always seeking the best way to motivate and to facilitate the learning process. Because we believe that the family is key to the education of students, communication with parents is viewed as an important part of student learning.

St. Paul's School has always offered a quality Catholic education and has followed the educational norms of the day. The reputation of St. Paul's as an excellent Catholic school is one of which we are very proud.

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St. Paul's: People Make a Parish