Did you know that Saint Matthew Catholic School began in 1992 thanks to Msgr. John Flynn? He felt a school would boost religious education and parish life. Let’s delve into the story of Saint Matthew’s Catholic Church and its school.
In January 1993 ground broke for the new school. Saint Matthew Catholic School welcomed just under 400 students on August 18, 1993. Bishop Joseph Galante dedicated the school on October 10, 1993. Sr. Patrice Floyd, IWBS, was the first principal. Saint Matthew opened with classes for all grade levels.
Enrollment grew quickly at Saint Matthew. New classes were added at each grade level. Today, Saint Matthew Catholic School serves over 600 students. They range from PreK3 through 8th grade.
Saint Matthew Catholic School continues to evolve. Students learn, grow, and thrive valuing their gifts. Eighth graders take lessons of purpose with them. Saint Matthew remains dedicated to current and future students.
Saint Matthew Catholic School’s campus includes many facilities. There is a library and media center. Also find a science lab and two computer labs. A gymnasium and athletic complex are available. Music lovers will appreciate the music and choir room. Students can eat in the cafeteria. In 2014, Saint Matthew’s Catholic School received a perfect inspection score.
The curriculum at Saint Matthew is age-appropriate. Students learn Language Arts and Mathematics. Science and Social Studies are taught too. Religion and Health classes are included. Spanish, Physical Education, and Computer Literacy are part of the curriculum. Art, Band, Choir, and Music round out the offerings.
Technology plays a vital role at Saint Matthew Catholic School. The iPad initiative began in 2013. Each child in 4th through 8th grade receives an iPad. They use it at school and home. Younger grades use iPads in the classroom. The Cardinal Advantage Classroom has advanced tech. It includes LCD projectors and Mimio Teach Systems.
Saint Matthew offers honors courses for Middle School students. They can join the National Junior Honor Society. Students can participate in academic clubs and competitions. These include the Private School Interscholastic Association PSIA. Students also participate in Accelerated Reader and Success Maker programs.
Students at Saint Matthew undergo sacramental preparation. They attend weekly Mass. They also take an annual course on Catholic theology.
Saint Matthew offers various sports programs. Many teams have won CYO competitions. Extracurricular activities are available too. These include Chess Club, Scouting, and Pep Squad. Music Lessons and Hand Bell Choir are further options.
The St. Matthew Catholic School Chess Team won big in 2015. They placed first in multiple categories at the 4th Rackspace Scholastic Chess Tournament.
Charity is important at Saint Matthew. Student council members hold an annual canned food drive. They support the community food pantry at St. Vincent de Paul. Saint Matthew Catholic School also supports disaster relief. In 2005, they helped Hurricane Katrina efforts. In 2010, they raised funds for Haiti earthquake relief.
Saint Matthew Catholic Church and School stand as a testament to faith. It is a place of learning, service, and community.