Our school history

Back in August of 1957, Father Arthur Lieux chose eight men to plan a drive for a new school. Thanks to their foresight and dedication, St. Theresa of Avila School became a reality on September 8th, 1959 when 276 children attended their first day of school in 1st through 4th grades.

The school was under the administration of the Sisters of the Most Holy Sacrament, who to this day have nuns actively involved at St. John Primary and St. Theresa School. The first principal, Sister Maria Immaculata, was followed by Sister Bonnaventure who was described as a fireball of energy and was instrumental in getting certified teachers at St. Theresa of Avila School.

The school has seen many changes and growth through the years. Under the guidance of Principal Jay Sullivan, St. Theresa School saw the addition of the library in 1981, the gym in 1991, and the Science and Computer Lab in 2000. Due to the population growth in Ascension Parish and the growing demand for Catholic education, the St. Theresa Partnership was formed in 2003. The partnership accomplished a major achievement, allowing St. Theresa School to expand enrollment with the transfer of pre-kindergarten and kindergarten to the St. John campus. In 2008, The East Ascension/East Iberville Regional Catholic School Partnership was formed. The partner schools are St. John Primary and St. Theresa Middle. First grade moved to St. John Primary the same year, and the following year, 2009, second grade also moved to St. John Primary. Plans for the expansion of the facilities at St. John Primary have been completed, and additional classrooms for 3rd grade should be added in the near future.