Perhaps no story embodies faith and knowledge better than that of St. Anthony Catholic School. Founded in 1907 by the Sisters of Divine Providence the school has been a beacon of education. It stands proudly in San Antonio’s Monte Vista Historic District.
The school’s story began with a vision. The Sisters of Divine Providence sought to create a space for learning and faith. In 1908 construction began on a new building. This is the main building you see today at the corner of Huisache and Howard.
In 1912 St. Anthony Catholic School expanded its reach. It added a high school curriculum. This also began a worship relationship with the Brothers of St. Anthony Seminary. That seminary is now St. Anthony High School.
The 1940s brought changes. Space constraints forced the school to drop the high school curriculum. But in 1948 the Calhoun Home was purchased. Today it is the Robert C. Benson Memorial Library. It served as a convent and boarding residence. The main building underwent renovations to better serve the students.
The school continued to grow in the 1950s. Boarding was discontinued to accommodate greater enrollment. By 1954 enrollment exceeded 300 students. St. Anthony Catholic School thrived.
The school faced challenges in 1985. Staffing the school with lay teachers became difficult. Maintaining affordable tuition was also a struggle. However dedicated parents alumni and community leaders rallied. They united to keep the school open. St. Anthony reopened with 107 students. These students ranged from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. A board of trustees and a school principal provided leadership.
The Sisters of Divine Providence sold the school in 1987. The school joined the Brainpower Connection of the University of the Incarnate Word in 1988. The Katherine Ryan Early Childhood Program moved to the St. Anthony campus. It continues to be administered here.
Celebrating a century of faith and knowledge St. Anthony Catholic School reached a milestone in 2008.
The Benson Center for Academic Excellence opened. This state-of-the-art facility houses the Welder Dining Hall. It also provides middle school classrooms and a student computer lab.
Today St. Anthony Catholic School continues to flourish. It provides students with an outstanding education rooted in Catholic faith. The school prepares young people for success in high school college and life.
Notable alumni include Tom C. Frost chairman emeritus of Frost Bank. Justin Rodriguez Bexar County Commissioner and former State Representative also attended. Filmmaker Robert Rodriguez walked these halls. Author Whitley Strieber singer Patricia Vonne and ceramicist James Salaiz are also alumni. Sabrina Dupré CMO of OneTen and Sonya Medina Williams Board Director at Papa John’s are St. Anthony graduates. Thomas Aguillon Rey Feo LXXII also passed through St. Anthony Catholic School.
The St. Anthony Catholic School plaque commemorates this rich history. It honors the dedication of those who have shaped the school. It also recognizes the countless students who have benefited from its commitment.