About St. Agnes
Our Mission & History
Our Mission
Rooted in the Catholic, Dominican tradition, St. Agnes Academy challenges young women through exceptional academic preparation and transformational experiences to lead with integrity, joy and a commitment to social justice.
A St. Agnes Graduate
Upon completion of a St. Agnes education, a graduate will embody the following.
- witnesses Gospel values and lives veritas through word and deed;
- recognizes her Dominican heritage and incorporates prayer into her daily life;
- demonstrates intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and a dedication to life-long learning;
- embraces diversity and champions the marginalized in society;
- confidently assumes personal leadership and acts with integrity and compassion;
- recognizes her interconnectedness with Earth and embraces her responsibilities for the children of all species;
- celebrates life in a joyful, optimistic and productive manner;
- has a deep commitment to social justice and making a difference in the world.
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believe every student is unique and valuable, with God-given talents. -
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are convinced education develops the whole person. -
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encourage the exploration of spiritual beliefs and moral choices within the context of Catholicism, while honoring each student's spiritual autonomy. -
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instill the sense of responsibility to act on behalf of social justice in light of the gospel. -
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facilitate a love of learning and learning for life. -
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develop a curriculum that balances high standards with responsiveness to students' varying abilities and learning styles. -
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teach with a balance of challenge and praise. -
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know that learning best happens in a safe environment of trust and fairness. -
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create and cultivate opportunities for students to recognize and develop potential and leadership beyond the curriculum. -
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believe our single-gender learning environment fosters self-respect, self-confidence, and helps students to enter society with the tools and voice to transform the world. -
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deepen the faith life of students through prayer, theological studies and fostering a sense of community through shared worship and service to educate the whole person.
School History & Origins
St. Agnes Academy was founded in 1905 by Mother Pauline Gannon, O.P., Prioress of the Dominican Sisters of Houston, Texas. The Academy opened on February 12, 1906, at its former location at 3901 Fannin. It was in operation at that site until September 1963 when the present-day campus opened at 9000 Bellaire Boulevard in Sharpstown. St. Agnes numbers more than 10,000 graduates, many of whom now have daughters, granddaughters, and even great-granddaughters who are Academy students or alumnae.
In 1917 St. Agnes was accredited by the Texas Conference of Catholic Bishops Education Department. It is now affiliated with the following educational associations: Catholic Schools of the Galveston-Houston Diocese, The National Catholic Educational Association, The Texas Catholic Conference Education Department in conjunction with the Texas Education Agency, Cognia, and The College Board.
From its founding until 1939, the Academy offered 12 years of instruction and boarding facilities for its students. In 1939, the boarding facilities were discontinued, and, in 1954, the Academy began to function as a day school for students in grades 9-12. Today, St. Agnes has approximately 930 girls enrolled.
Dominican Blessing
May the Creator bless us, may the Redeemer heal us, may the Holy Spirit enlighten us
And give us eyes to see, ears to hear and hands to do the work of God;
Feet to walk the path of justice and mouths to preach the Good News.
May the angel of peace watch over us and lead us, at last, to the Reign of God.
Amen.
And give us eyes to see, ears to hear and hands to do the work of God;
Feet to walk the path of justice and mouths to preach the Good News.
May the angel of peace watch over us and lead us, at last, to the Reign of God.
Amen.
List of 3 items.
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VERITAS
A very important word around St. Agnes is VERITAS, the Dominican motto meaning truth, which permeates the educational endeavors at St. Agnes. It is the name of the yearbook and it is found on the senior rings. -
Domini Canes
Equally familiar is the VERITAS shield, which is a compendium of St. Dominic's life and ideals: the vision of the dog with the burning brand which his mother saw before his birth - the Domini Canes (hound of the Lord) who would spread His truth; the star which emblazoned his forehead (symbol of heavenly wisdom); the lilies of purity and the palm of victory; the swords of justice and of truth; the Rosary, which by meditation on its mysteries leads to oneness with Christ, Who is Truth Incarnate; and the crown surmounting all, symbol of eternal blessedness, with the eight stars representing the beatitudes. -
Mascot Logo
The St. Agnes Academy mascot logo was developed by a group of students, faculty, staff and alumnae in 2007 to celebrate the Tiger spirit in athletics, student organizations and campus life.
St. Agnes Academy
