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Our Mission
The mission of St. Mary of Carmel School is to serve children by providing quality Catholic education in a safe and nurturing environment.
Our Philosophy
St. Mary of Carmel School strives to nurture the whole individual in a faith-filled Catholic environment: to promote spiritual, intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth in each person as an ongoing journey to maturity as a Catholic Christian and citizen of the world.
Our Goals
- To integrate Catholic values into the daily lives of students
- To provide the high quality education by providing a variety of learning experiences, maintaining high expectations, recognizing individual differences, and celebrating achievements
- To create an environment that is safe, orderly, respectful, and conducive to learning
- To form a community of students, teachers, and parents who work together to provide a support network for students
- To develop in each student the principles of moral consciousness and good citizenship
- To be good financial stewards and maximize resources
Our History
The Catholic Community of St. Mary of Carmel dates back to 1937 when a young missionary priest from Spain, Father Sebastian Valles, O.C.D., began working with West Dallas Catholics from a small building on Chihuahua Street that served as both church and classroom. When the congregation outgrew its cramped facilities, it acquired a "real" church building from Christ the King Parish.
Father Sebastian's dream of opening a Catholic school was realized in 1944 when the current middle school and convent were bilt. The Sisters of the Holy Spirit and Mary Immaculate graciously agreed to staff the new St. Mary of Carmel School, and continue to this day in the ministry of serving the community.
In 1973, St. Rita joined St. Mary of Carmel as a "parish partner," offering financial assistance and shared projects to help meet the growing needs of the St. Mary's community. Traditions were established, buildings were added, and dedicated lay teachers joined the staff.
Several generations of children and their families, along with many dedicated priests, Sisters, and lay teachers have passed through St. Mary's doors since 1944. Each person has added unique color and depth to the tapestry that is St. Mary of Carmel School, and each passing year adds a page to its rich history. The tradition of quality Catholic education continues here, and passes from generation to generation.