St Augustine Catholic High School

 St. Augustine Catholic High School

Spiritual, Academic, Community

We are Leaders in Excellence!

St. Augustine Catholic currently has 164 students in grades 9-12. We are projecting an enrollment of 190 students for the 2015-2016 school year. Our students travel from various parts of Tucson and are from all different faiths and backgrounds. All of our students receive financial aid for the tuition and over 85% receive additional funding as well. We strive to offer a college prep curriculum to students of various abilities, and we are committed to our families. Many of our students have been or will be first generation college students, and we are proud to be a part of their journey! 

In addition to spiritual growth and academic guidance, our students receive college and career planning beginning in 9th grade. We offer athletics to any student who would like to participate and all of our students complete at least twenty hours a year of community service. 

Our History

In 1979, Sr. Mary Norbert Long, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Schools, wrote a proposal expressing the need to develop a Catholic High School on the east side of Tucson.  Over the years, several efforts were made to establish such a school at the Regina Cleri Center, site of the former Diocesan seminary.  Numerous efforts during the 80’s and 90’s began and failed.  Two extensive surveys of parents with school-aged children on Tucson’s east side clearly indicated the need for the school.

In October 2001, Bishop Manuel Moreno appointed a board of directors to establish and open St. Augustine Catholic High School.  In November 2001, the by-laws and articles of incorporation were signed and submitted to the State of Arizona.  The terms of the agreement on the lease of the Regina Cleri property, until purchased, were completed in May 2002.  In June the Board of directors elected officers and hired a project director.  The Metanoia Group updated a financial feasibility study begun in 2000.  On August 25, 2002, an Open House hosted by Bishop Gerald Kicanas drew over 400 persons.  In September 2002 the Board created a strategic plan for the development of St. A's.  A site development director was hired to implement plans for the school’s opening in August 2003.  The school’s campus boasts a variety of wildlife and native vegetation.  Over 44 acres of pristine desert, with a lush, grassy courtyard are an inviting setting for the beautiful Mediterranean architecture of the campus buildings.

In November 2002, Sr. Lauren Moss EdD was hired as the founding Principal.  Sr. Lauren was a Franciscan sister with a double Doctorate in education and counseling and 45 years of experience in working with children from pre-school through post-doctorate study.  On August 11, 2003, St. Augustine Catholic High School opened its doors to the inaugural Freshman class.  Bishop Gerald Kicanas was present to welcome the students.  Fr. Robert Rankin opened the first day of school with a Mass for the students, faculty, administrative staff and parents.  Saint Augustine Catholic High School changed from a dream to a reality. Today, we celebrate 11 years!