OUR HISTORY
1913
St. Joseph Catholic School is established in Santa Ana, making it one of the oldest Catholic schools in Orange County.
1916
At the request of the parish pastor, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange begin administering the school. Their commitment to Catholic education and service shapes the school’s early foundation.
1947
The current St. Joseph Catholic Church is built on Minter Street, becoming a central hub for the growing parish community.
1990–2005
Very Rev. Christopher H. Smith, later Rector of Christ Cathedral, serves as pastor of St. Joseph Parish, supporting both parish and school growth.
2012
Sister Michelle Tochtrop, the last full-time faculty member from the Sisters of St. Joseph, retires. She served in various leadership roles including principal, teacher, and board member. She passed away in 2016, leaving a lasting legacy.
2014
The school expands its offerings by introducing a Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program to support early childhood education.
2017
Rev. Efrain Flores, who joined the parish in 2014, is appointed pastor of St. Joseph Church.
School Legacy and Mission
Rooted in the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange, the school lives out the R.E.A.L. values—Respect, Effort, Achievement, and Love—as guiding principles for student growth and community life.
St. Joseph Catholic School remains a vibrant, accredited Catholic school serving students from Preschool through 8th Grade, continuing a tradition of faith, academic excellence, and service that began over a century ago.