History

The History of Saint Teresa Catholic School

As we focus on the future, we cannot forget our rich foundation. St. Teresa Church was established in 1892 as a mission church and remained one until 1958. The dawn of the space age brought scientists, engineers, and young professionals to Titusville, and these young families desired a Catholic education for their children.

To meet this need, the pastor of St. Teresa Church, Fr. John O’Hare, asked sisters from the Convent of Mercy in County Galway, Ireland, if any would be willing to come to Titusville. On November 12, 1961, Sr. Margaret Kenny, Sr. Mary Mercy Mongey, and Sr. Patrick Hennely (Sr. Ita) arrived in Titusville to help establish St. Teresa Catholic School. The first classes were held in the old church, but the student population slowly began to outgrow one building; there were 90 students by the end of the first year. In 1962, construction commenced on the school building and Sr. Aloysius O’Brien (Sr. Kathleen) came to assist with the growing enrollment. On October 12, 1962, the first story was completed. Three more nuns joined the following year to help with the school’s expanding population. By the time a second story was added in1964, the school’s population had increased to 325 students, and classes ranged from kindergarten to grade eight.

Due to an increased student population and changes in the curriculum, two new buildings were added to the campus in 1997. On October 15, 2001, a new gymnasium and a separate building for the middle school were dedicated. This new education building contained five classrooms, as well as a music lab, science, lab, computer lab, and media center.

However, St. Teresa Catholic School is more than bricks and mortar, and the proof is in the accomplishments of our graduates. Many have successfully earned degres in accounting, architecture, engineering, finance, governmental service, law, medicine, pharmacy, and teaching, while others have chosen a career in the military and public service. One young woman flew black hawk helicopters in the Iraq War and went on to get her MBA degree. Another graduate worked as a graphic artist for CNN, and two other graduates have become priests. Our alumni have even returned to their roots to teach at and bring their children to St. Teresa Catholic School.

Today, St. Teresa Catholic School is dedicated to preparing our students to meet the challenges awaiting them as they learn and grow to adulthood in the 21st century. With Christ at the heart of our ministry, along with our commitment to academic excellence, we faithfully and wholeheartedly serve the needs of all our students.