Historic Schools Success Stories: St. Louis School
TexasBuilt in 1925, the St. Louis School was founded in 1868 by two sisters from the Congregation of Divine Providence. The small town of Castroville, Texas has continuously embraced the historic neighborhood school and viewed it as a gift to the community it serves. In the 1960’s, the State of Texas implemented strict educational requirements, which ultimately forced the school to close. The building remained open, serving as a parish for religious education as well as a community center until 1985. In 1986, the school was reestablished as an active Catholic School. The long-term planning process of reopening St. Louis School now serves as a model for other parishes in the Archdiocese striving to reuse historic catholic schools.
The school defines the traditions and identity of the community. The state-of-the-art school, which admits Catholic as well as non-Catholic students, is a testament to the success a historic neighborhood school can have on a small community. Reopening the school has reinstalled a sense of pride and commitment to the community. The positive renovation of the St. Louis School prompted the reopening of thirty additional Catholic schools in the State of Texas.
Contact Information
School Administrator
Sister Marie Elise
St. Louis School
Principal
610 Madrid Street, Castroville, Texas 78009
830.538.3544
830.931.9016 (fax)
www.saintlouis.org
School Administrator
Mr. Dale R. Hoyt
Archdiocese of San Antonio
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
P.O. Box 28410, San Antonio Texas 78228-5195
210.734.2620
Community Leader, Neighbor or PTA Member
Ms. Carole S. Romano
Castroville Conservation Society
President
P.O. Box 1312, Castroville, Texas 78009-1312
830.931.6397
lcrcsr1217@aol.com
Description of Project
Project
Address: 610 Madrid Street, Castroville, Texas 78009
Status--Local, state, national designation: No
Architect: Information: not available
Date of construction: The first part of St. Louis School was constructed in 1925, consisting of four classrooms as well as living space for the Sisters. In 1928, a high school building was added to St. Louis School. Additional high school classroom space was since added in 1938 and again in 1950.
Date of renovation: The school was reopened in September of 1986, providing pre-K, kindergarten and first grade level classes. Additional grades have since been added to the school.
Date of previous renovation: Information not available
Use (Pre-K through 5th grade)
Size: The St. Louis School is a two-story building with one annex. (Total square footage information not available)
Student/teacher ratio: 1:15 (240 students)
Alternative uses: The school’s cafeteria is used for weekend activities, including religious services and events.
Location
Historic district: The school is located in a small, multi-cultural community west of San Antonio, which is not deemed a historic district.
Walking distance--Bussing vs. walking: Since the school does not operate a bus service, most students walk or ride their bicycles to school.
For more information contact:
National Trust Southwest Regional Office
500 Main Street, Suite 1030
Fort Worth, TX 76102
817-332-4398
swro@www.preservationnation.org
