St. Theresa School located in Kekaha, Kauai, Hawaii is the westernmost Catholic School in the United States.  The school opened its doors in 1946 with 138 learners in grades K-3 and was staffed by the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity from Manitowoc Wisconsin.

 

Positioned in Kekaha, it holds the distinction of being the westernmost Catholic school in the country, operating alongside Saint Theresa's Catholic Church.

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Major Milestones and Challenges

• Hurricane Iniki (1992): The devastating hurricane severely impacted the region, destroying original school infrastructure, the convent, rectory, and church hall, requiring major community rebuilding efforts.

• Leadership Transition (2006): For its first six decades, a nun always served as principal. In 2006, the campus welcomed its first lay principal.

• Sisters' Departure (2017): After 71 years of continuous service, the final Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity departed Kekaha to return to their Wisconsin motherhouse or take on new missions.

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Modern Era

• Current Operations: Today, the school expands from preschool (PreK) through Grade 8, emphasizing core academics rooted in the Catholic faith, STREAM programs, and community heritage.

• Community Heritage: The school actively ties itself to local plantation history, hosting annual community events like the Kekaha Home Sweet Home Festival celebrating Kekaha's rich sugar plantation and paniolo heritage.

 

Today, St. Theresa School offers an educational program to learners from PreK through Grade 8.  With a philosophy firmly founded in the Catholic faith and a belief in basic academics, the school welcomes students of any race, color, ethnic group or creed, with the understanding that the Catholic faith is taught and practiced as a daily part of school life. The school strives to open a gateway to a bright future for learners. St. Theresa School is a private, Catholic school that serves all of Kauai's keiki.

 

St. Theresa School is dedicated to guiding learners as they follow the footsteps of Jesus. Faith, 'Ohana (family) and Academic Excellence are the pillars upon which we build tomorrow’s leaders.

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St. Theresa School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Western Catholic Education Association (WCEA)