St. Barbara Catholic School, a Transitional Kindergarten through eighth grade parish school serving the city of Santa Ana and the surrounding communities, was opened in 1963. St. Barbara Catholic School’s founding pastor was Monsignor Collins. He was a great supporter of Catholic schools - so much so, that he believed it was more important to build the parish school first, and that the parish would follow. The original building consisted of 8 classrooms, which could be converted for use as a church on the weekends. Monsignor Collins loved children and was actively involved in the school, and was often found playing sports with the students at recess. It was at his request that the gym was built for the school. This same focus on a student-centered environment continues to guide the direction of the school.
Currently, St. Barbara Catholic School has a dedicated staff of a principal, thirteen lay teachers, 2 Sisters, three teacher’s aides, extended day care staff, and three office staff. The combined efforts of the administration, faculty and staff, clergy, parent volunteers, and parishioners have enabled St. Barbara Catholic School to be a model of faith-formation and educational excellence in the Diocese of Orange.
READ MORE