Padre Pio Academy
We want children to learn, to lead and to make a difference and most importantly grow in the Catholic Faith
Our Story
Padre Pio Academy
An independent priest named Fr. Schell and a group of parents were not pleased with the problems in the diocesan and Christian schools and on June 14, 1983 had a meeting to figure out how to start their own private Catholic school. The group had no experience running a school and that first meeting brought up many questions such as; “Where would the teachers come from? Where will the classes be held? What about the curriculum, books and desks?” However, the parents were resolved to start a school and God would take care of the rest. A decision was made to name the school Padre Pio Academy in honor of the holy stigmatist of this century.
Padre Pio Academy started with 23 students from grades 1 through 9. There were many struggles, sacrifices and victories the first couple of years. The first location was the Evangelical Formosan Church of Orange County in Garden Grove. The first year was quite memorable with rooms getting flooded and plumbing going out altogether however, the parents always pulled together with the constant support, prayers and advice of Father Schell.
The school changed locations several times and on September 11, 2002 acquired a 2 acre piece of property located on Bixby Avenue in Garden Grove. After an intensive cleanup, classes opened at this current location.
Mission Statement
Padre Pio Academy seeks to foster the growth of every student in faith, love, and service to God within a strong academic environment. The difference is the quest for excellence in the mind, heart, and soul. Padre Pio augments strong academic training with an emphasis on the character formation: “for it is far better to build children than to repair men”.
Founding Principles
- Love for the Catholic Faith and its traditional teachings
- Academic excellence to challenge each student to achieve his or her full potential
- Reinforcement of the Catholic principles of family values, a lively patriotism, and allegiance to God and Country
Great school, great teachers!
This school feels more like a big family. I attended this school from kindergarten-12th grade and am very grateful for that. This school teaches and lives the traditional values that the public schools lack. Daily rosary, weekly Mass, along with all the academics. Looking forward to having my children attend this Traditional Catholic school.
It prepared me for college and taught me my faith.
I went to this school from grade 1-12 and I think it is a wonderful school. The teachers truly care about the spiritual well being of the students. I now send my own son there and love the fact that he is able to make friends who share his faith.
I will definitely be sending my kids there!
PPA is a wonderful Catholic school focused on the religious and academic education of its students. The teachers genuinely care for their students and work tirelessly towards their success. I graduated from PPA and still think of my teachers and classmates as family. I will definitely be sending my kids there!
This school is amazing.
As someone who works in education I know that my children are receiving a quality education with a foundation in faith. My kids are encouraged, inspired and pushed to achieve success in all aspects of their lives. Thank you PPA.