St. Cyril of Alexandria Parrish

The History Behind The School

St. Cyril School opened its door for the first time in September of 1952. The entire staff of three Holy Cross Sisters came from St. Mary of the Lake in South Bend, Indiana. The original building, a used army barracks, housed 147 children in three classes. The pastor at that time was Monsignor Frances X. Donnellan, and it was his interest in quality education that led him to break ground in February of 1953 for the initial sections of the permanent structure of St. Cyril School.

Today, St. Cyril Catholic School is a vibrant campus. Filled with students of all nationalities, and all walks of life. The majority of these students come from the greater Tucson area, and surrounding communities. From our early beginnings to present day, St. Cyril of Alexandria has remained dedicated to providing a top quality, traditional Catholic education. Our teachers and staff work hard to encourage students to develop a lifelong love of learning, and to foster a spirit of community and service to others. From 1952 to present day, our approach to education and student growth has remained rooted in the teachings of the Holy Father, and the values of the pursuit of a faith based life.

1952

St. Cyril of Alexandria School opened its doors for the first time in September of 1952.

1953

The pastor was Monsignor Frances X. Donnellan, and it was his interest in quality Catholic education that led him to break ground in February, 1953.

1964

The school had a staff of seventeen teachers (nine sisters and eight lay teachers).Enrollment reached its peak with 650 children.

1974

Bishop Greene, invited the Paulist Fathers to take over the leadership of the vibrate parish and school. Father Bill Dewan, CSP was the first Paulist pastor.

2006

On July 1, 2006, the Carmelite Oder took over the leadership of the Parish. Fr. Fred Tillotson, O. Carm. was named Administrator.

2007

In July, 2007, the Carmelite order name Fr. Ron Oakham, O. Carm as the new pastor effective January 1, 2008.

St. Cyril Catholic School

Creating Tomorrow’s Leaders Through Inspiration & Innovation