St. John XXIII High School

What if I told you that a high school could embody the spirit of a Pope? Right here, before St. John XXIII High School, that’s exactly what we find. St. John XXIII High School, originally Pope John XXIII High School, opened its doors in 2004. It was the first new Catholic high school in Greater Houston in over 40 years. This marked a significant moment for the community, a testament to the enduring power of faith and education. St. John XXIII wasn’t just another school. It was designed to be a beacon of hope, a place where young minds could be nurtured and souls could flourish. The school’s motto, “Parare Mente et Corde” which means “To Prepare in Mind and Heart,” reflects its commitment to holistic education. St. John XXIII High School started with just 47 freshmen in its inaugural year. The school gradually expanded, adding a grade level each year. This steady growth culminated in its first graduating class in the spring of 2008. Imagine the pride and excitement of those first graduates, pioneers of a new era in Catholic education in Houston. In 2014, the school’s name officially changed to St. John XXIII College Preparatory to honor the canonization of Pope John XXIII. This renaming symbolized a deeper connection to the Pope’s legacy and his emphasis on service and compassion. St. John XXIII offers a rigorous academic program. It provides a diverse range of extracurricular activities and athletic programs. The school is situated on a sprawling 35-acre campus near Katy. It boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a competition gymnasium and the Crosthwait Student Center. A unique aspect of St. John XXIII is its house system, inspired by Oxford and Rice University. Students are divided into five houses, each named after a prominent figure in Church history. This fosters a sense of community and encourages friendly competition. The houses compete throughout the year for the coveted Roncalli Cup. The Roncalli Cup is named after Pope John XXIII’s birth name, Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, a subtle nod to the school’s namesake. St. John XXIII High School continues to thrive. It serves students from Katy, Spring Branch, Cypress, Memorial, Rosenberg, and Sugar Land. The school stands as a testament to its commitment to preparing students not just for college, but for life, guided by the principles of faith, service, and academic excellence.