Ever wondered about a school with nearly two centuries of history? That’s Institución Educativa San Francisco de Asís in Arequipa. This Catholic school has shaped generations. It stands as a testament to faith and education.
Institución Educativa San Francisco de Asís was founded in 1830. Reverend Father Esteban Rincón ofm established it. The school started in the historic center of Arequipa on Jerusalén Street. Franciscan friars have always governed it. Throughout its long history, it has produced many notable figures. These alumni have excelled in various professions.
Let’s journey back to the school’s early days. It began in 1822. It honored its founder. Father Esteban Rincón managed it from 1830. He maintained its operations as a school within the convent’s cloisters. This arrangement was formally recognized in 1848. It became a public school.
The school then went through different phases. There was the “Calienes” period. Next came the “Internado” period. Finally, there was the “Restauración” period. Each phase reflects changes in Peru’s history.
During the “Calienes” period, Father Juan Calienes elevated the school. He made it a top educational institution. He used kindness as a teaching method. President José Echenique declared in 1835 that the school could grant academic degrees. It became an institution of higher learning.
In 1848, it was declared a national college. This was to gain state support. Previously it relied on its own resources. Prominent figures taught here including Miguel Garaicoechea.
The “Internado” period began in 1893. Father Juan José Uriarte opened a spiritual formation center. The school admitted the public. Father Juan José Indacochea became the director. Both primary and secondary levels were offered.
The “Restauración” period started in 1918. Father José Núñez del Prado established an annex. It had fourth and fifth grades. In 1921, the school officially became “San Francisco de Asís”. Father Enrique Rodríguez ofm was the director.
Institución Educativa San Francisco de Asís has received many awards. It earned the “Sol Radiante” Gold Medal for pre-military instruction. It shares this honor with Colegio Guadalupe.
The school’s insignia has a crowned shape with a gold border. It features the colors of the national flag. It also displays Arequipa symbols like the Misti volcano. Franciscan emblems are also present. These include the lion of Asís.
The school’s old facilities were in Arequipa’s historic center. They were near the convent and church. In Cayma a new campus was built. It includes modern educational and sports facilities. This replaced the old location on Jerusalén Street.
Institución Educativa San Francisco de Asís continues to provide quality education. It follows Franciscan ideals. It serves students from initial to secondary levels. The school aims to educate 850 students. It remains a point of pride. It is a center of learning in Arequipa.