“A real gem hidden in plain sight.” That is how St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School is described.
St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School is located in Camp Springs, Maryland. It stands as a beacon of faith and education. The school’s story began in 1960. The Bernardine Franciscan Sisters originally staffed it.
Classes first took place at La Reine High School. The current building was completed in 1962. By 1964, St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School served students in first through eighth grades. Kindergarten classes started in 1986. Pre-kindergarten classes began in 1997.
Over the years, St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School has seen the dedication of several religious orders. The Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary also served here. Currently, a Daughter of St. Ann teaches at the school. Principal Johnson emphasizes the importance of maintaining a religious sister’s presence.
In 2020, St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School celebrated its 60th anniversary. Cardinal Wilton Gregory marked the occasion with a Mass. He gave thanks for the school’s legacy of faith and education.
Cardinal Gregory reminded students that St. Philip asked Jesus a profound question. Jesus responded, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School strives to teach children to follow Jesus.
The school emphasizes its Catholic identity. Faith is central to everything they do. The school motto is “To Seek God in All Things”. St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School begins each week with a school-wide Mass.
Today, about 150 students attend St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School. They range from pre-K3 through eighth grade. Approximately 95 percent of graduates attend Catholic high schools.
The curriculum includes religious education, math, and language arts. Social studies and science are also taught. Computer instruction is offered. There’s also pre-algebra for sixth and seventh graders. Algebra is available for eighth graders. St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School also provides art, physical education, and Spanish. Resource teachers support math and reading.
Like many schools, St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The school adjusted to distance learning with perseverance. Despite the difficulties, they maintained high standards.
St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School stands near Joint Base Andrews. It is also close to the Metro’s Green Line. New construction surrounds the school. Principal Johnson aims to strengthen enrollment. She wants families to know about the school’s unique spiritual environment.
St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School is more than just a school. It is a community of faith. It is a place where students learn to seek God. The legacy of St. Philip lives on.