Our 50th Anniversary!
Morning Star School celebrated its 50th anniversary during the 2008-2009 school year. The school opened its doors to just four students on September 15, 1958, under the direction of the Sisters of St. Joseph of St. Augustine, Florida. The school consisted of just one building with two classrooms and a physical therapy room. Today's enrollment of 70 students enjoys a school campus that houses 10 classrooms, a media center and a motor learning lab.
Nearly fifty years ago, Archbishop Hurley had a vision of opening a Catholic special education school in every major metropolitan area in Florida. At that time the state of Florida was was made up of just one diocese, the Diocese of St. Augustine. What remarkable vision! We continue our mission to challenge students with learning disabilities to experience success as they prepare for a future filled with growth, service and sharing God's love in the global community.
Thanks to the Diocese of St. Petersburg, dedicated faculty and administration, supportive parents and community members, Morning Star School continues to "Shine Brightly" and hopes to do so for the next fifty years.
Planned events held during our 50th Anniversary included:
- Wednesday, September 17, 2008 - A Commemorative Mass was held at Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church. IBishop Robert Lynch led the Mass and was assisted by Monsignor Laurence Higgins
- Saturday, October 11, 2008 - A picnic for alumni, former staff, current students & their families took place at the Tampa Bay Baptist Conference Center in November.
- Monday, November 17, 2008 - An alumni career day provided Morning Star School students with a great overview of what past students are doing in their life. Justin Boudreaux, Bobby Diaz, Aaron Miller and Jason Leima shared their careers with students and teachers. This career day was a great success!
- Thursday, March 19, 2009 - The Morning Star School Gala celebrated "A Nostalgic Look at the Past 50 Years". The Morning Star School Choir did a wonderful job and helped make this a very enjjoyable event for all in attendance.
50th Anniversary Newsletter
50th Anniversary Donation Form
Our Wish List
The Memory Book
Tampa, Florida 33612