Reflection by Dr. Steven F. Cheeseman, NCEA President/CEO
In the Diocese of Corpus Christi, Catholic schools are communities where faith and learning go hand in hand. Rooted in a mission to provide Christ-centered learning environments and academic excellence, the diocese’s 13 schools continue a tradition that has shaped students spiritually, intellectually, socially, and morally since 1871. From communities rebuilding after hardship to schools expanding innovative academic opportunities, each campus reflects the pillars of faith, knowledge, and service while forming missionary disciples for the future.
My visit to the Diocese of Corpus Christi was a powerful reminder of the resilience and vibrant spirit that defines Catholic education. Hosted by Superintendent Dr. Rebecca Hammel, our journey began with a warm welcome and a delicious lunch with Bishop Michael Mulvey and local leaders, setting a tone of deep community and faith.
This PK–5 community with about 100 students is a true testament to resilience. Sacred Heart School in Rockport has navigated the devastating aftermath of Category 4 Hurricane Harvey, which shuttered their main buildings in 2017. Despite the challenges and struggles of rebuilding, the spirit is one of positivity and hope. I was moved to see students’ faces light up at the sight of their pastor, Fr. Ray Yrlas, during our tour, and the office was “filled to the brim” with Accelerated Reader awards, proving that their academic focus remains as strong as their faith. I was also impressed by the tremendous support of the “Guardian Angels,” parishioners and others who support the vibrancy of the school by providing tuition assistance to help struggling families. Let us all keep this community in our prayers as they look ahead with hope and joy for the rebuilding while navigating the planning, construction, and FEMA granting process for rebuilding the school and parish facilities.
Led by Mrs. Lilly Samaniego for 13 years, Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic School serves nearly 70 students with a deeply positive, student-focused energy. We joined Mrs. Samaniego (a former student herself, as are her children and now her grandchildren) for morning announcements, where she and her students set a “Terrific Tuesday” tone for the entire campus. The hospitality here is palpable; in every classroom, we were greeted with, “Welcome… God bless you, we love you!” As we visited classrooms, we saw learning in action: team-teaching among faculty, displays honoring “Saints of the Month,” preparations for Christmas performances, and an ongoing STREAM project. We also had the opportunity to meet several teachers, including two from the Notre Dame ACE program, who are contributing energy and leadership in the school community. We left this school feeling the spirit of joy that emanated from this faith-filled learning community.
While St. John Paul II Academy is the largest school in the Diocese, it maintains a wonderfully close-knit feel where students and teachers alike “wear many hats.” This sense of community was perfectly captured when we met a student-athlete who plays on the football team and then swaps his helmet for an instrument to perform with the band at halftime! Academically, the school is rigorous; every senior must complete and defend a Senior Thesis, a capstone project that integrates critical thinking with their Catholic faith.
We also saw the school’s innovative spirit in the Career Pathways Health Science program. We observed students practicing with EKG machines, earning professional certifications as phlebotomy or X-ray technicians through a partnership with Del Mar College. Our visit concluded with the soaring, confident sounds of their choir accompanied by a talented student pianist, a beautiful reflection of the school’s strong fine arts program and vibrant student spirit.
Stepping onto the campus of St. Anthony School in Robstown is like walking through a living history book of Catholic mission. This PK–8 school, led by Principal Mrs. Anna Gonzalez, serves its students in a joyful environment grounded in over 106 years of history. The school was founded by the Missionary Sisters of the Most Pure Virgin Mary under the leadership of Venerable Mother Julia Navarrete Guerrero. A pioneer of Catholic education in Texas, Mother Julia was declared Venerable by Pope John Paul II in 2004, and her cause for sainthood continues to be a point of profound honor and inspiration for the community today.
The school’s beginnings were humble but holy, starting with just 20 children of Mexican migrant farm workers who labored in the surrounding fields. Today, St. Anthony remains true to those roots, continuing to serve a predominantly Hispanic community with unwavering dedication. The campus benefits from a strong religious presence, including both Dominican Sisters and SOLT (Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity) Sisters, who support faith formation and community life. St. Anthony is truly a bright light that honors its past while forming the saints of tomorrow.
FACTS is dedicated to making educational dreams possible for families and students while enhancing the financial stability and affordability of education. Serving over 12,000 schools worldwide and more than three million students and families, FACTS provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to support administrators and learners alike in delivering exceptional educational experiences. FACTS works with many Catholic schools and dioceses across the United States and is proud to power the NCEA “Bright Lights of Catholic Education” tour, continuing its commitment to Catholic education for years to come.
