The history of St. Thomas English Medium School traces back to the visionary efforts of Fr. Dennis Castellino, the priest of Holy Rosary Church. During that time, Rotary English Medium School in Moodbidri was the only English medium school in the area. Recognizing the need for another English medium educational institution, Fr. Dennis Castellino embarked on a mission to establish one.
The campus of Holy Rosary Church in Alangar provided a spacious and secure location for the proposed school. It was also notable that the Saint Thomas Kannada Medium School in the vicinity had been delivering quality education to the local community. Inspired by the success of the Kannada medium school's Platinum Jubilee celebrations, that were held in December 1996 with great pomp and grandeur, the decision was made to establish an English medium school in memory of this significant event.
Thus, the initiative to start St. Thomas English Medium School was undertaken as a tribute to the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of the Saint Thomas Kannada Medium School. The school aimed to provide high-quality education in English, meeting the educational needs of the people in and around Alangar.
The journey of St. Thomas English Medium School began in June 1997 with the commencement of classes for LKG, UKG, and 1st standard. It was a remarkable start as a total of 52 students were admitted to the LKG class, reflecting the strong demand for English medium education in the area.
The following year, the school expanded its offerings and introduced classes for 3rd, 4th, and 5th standards simultaneously. This growth demonstrated the school's commitment to meeting the educational needs of students beyond the initial levels. The first headmistress was Sr. Everesta. She served for 1 year. After her, Sr. Nora Alvares served until 2002.
As the years passed, the first batch of students from St. Thomas English Medium School appeared for the 7th standard examinations in March 2000. This milestone marked the successful progression of the school and showcased its dedication to nurturing students academically.
However, the journey didn't stop there. Recognizing the growing demand for higher education, the need for a high school became apparent. This endeavor involved extensive paperwork and interactions with government officials and politicians. Late Sr. Claudia Pinto, Mr. P.K Thomas, Mrs. Irene Rodriguez, and Mr. Valerian Sequeira played crucial roles in leaving no stone unturned to make this dream a reality. Sr. Gabriel Aranha and Sr. Nora worked diligently to ensure that all records were in order for the necessary approvals.
With only eight days remaining for the inauguration of the high school building, Mr. P.K Thomas and MLA Abhayachandra Jain secured the permission from the Government. Finally, on May 31st, 2001, the ground floor of the high school building was inaugurated, marking a significant milestone in the growth of St. Thomas English Medium School.
In 2001, Fr. Dennis Castellino was transferred due to poor health, and Fr. Oswald Lasrado served for one year to support the development of the school. Sr. Celine Furtado became the first high school headmistress.
However, in February 2002, Fr. Oswald Lasrado went on leave due to his ill health. Msgr Fr. Edwin Pinto took charge for a few months until May 2002.
June 2002, Fr. Vincent D'Souza assumed the position. Fr. Vincent served for eight years and made significant improvements to the school.
During his tenure, Fr. Vincent arranged for the recruitment of well-qualified teachers and introduced a school bus system, which led to an increase in the student population. He also oversaw the completion of the second floor of the high school building and renovated the hall. Additionally, a new stage was constructed to celebrate his 25 years of Priesthood.
Fr. Vincent emphasized the importance of sports and developed the Korti Maidan /playground. He also organized science exhibitions annually, attracting students from neighbouring schools to witness the exhibitions. Furthermore, the school hosted taluk-level quiz competitions.
However, the school faced challenges when the government implemented a policy regarding the use of Kannada and English languages, causing some difficulties. Fr. Vincent and Sr. Stella Crasta worked together to address this problem.
On April 4, 2009, the extended hall was inaugurated by Mr. Abhayachandra Jain MLA Moodbidri. Shortly after, on April 7, 2009, Sr. Stella Crasta was transferred to Bangalore.
On 02/05/2009, Sr. Stephania took charge as the Headmistress of the school.
On 05/02/2010, a new basketball court was inaugurated with the presence of MLA Abhayachandra Jain, Mr. Vincent DCosta (Rotary English Medium school Headmaster), and committee members.
On 19/06/2010, the school correspondent, Fr. Vincent D'Souza, was transferred to Bela.
On 20/06/2010, Fr. Basil Vaz became the correspondent of the school.
In April 2011, Headmistress Sr. Stephanie was transferred due to health problems.
On 10/04/2011, Fr. Edwin Pinto took charge as the Headmaster. Fr. Basil identified the need for a new primary building, as the school was currently using an old Kannada medium building.
On 14/05/2014, the new primary building was blessed by Most Rev. Aloysius Paul D'Souza, the Bishop of Mangalore.
In June 2014, Father Edwin Pinto was transferred to Kadaba, and sister Felcita took charge as the Headmistress.
On 14/06/2014, the two-floor primary building was inaugurated by the municipality president, Mr. Supriya, and committee members.
On 28/06/2014, the Bishop of Mangalore, Most Reverend Aloysius Paul D'Souza, visited the school as part of the pastoral visit.
Father Basil focused on obtaining a minority certificate and implementing minority projects.
Father Basil initiated the introduction of smart classes in the classrooms and carried out various renovations and constructions, including leveling the front and approach grounds, constructing an open stage, and building a wall around the school football ground. Additionally, interlocks were laid on the front ground, the office was renovated, and CC cameras were installed for security purposes.
To accommodate more students, 5 additional school buses were acquired, and a steam cooking kitchen was set up to provide mid-day meals.
The school placed equal importance on academics and sports.
June 2016 marked a significant change in the school's leadership as Sr. Felcita bid farewell, and Sr. Irene Tauro assumed the role of Headmistress. The following year, in June 2017, Fr. Basil's transfer to Madanthyar led to the appointment of Fr. Sunil Veigas as the new correspondent. In 2018, June witnessed another transition as Sr. Irene Tauro and Fr. Sunil Veigas handed over their responsibilities to pave the way for a fresh chapter.
June 2018 marked the beginning of a transformative period under the leadership of Fr. Walter D'Souza, who took charge as the correspondent. Concurrently, Sylvia Dsa was appointed as the headmistress.
In 2018, under the guidance of Fr. Walter D'Souza, the esteemed correspondent, significant importance was given to improving basic facilities. The mid-day meal building roof was renovated, and necessary amenities were brought in. Furthermore, a new boiler was installed, ensuring a smooth functioning of the school.
In 2021, He took a major step forward by renovating and painting the entire school building, giving it a fresh and new look. Additionally, recognizing the need for improved facilities, He constructed a toilet block for girls in the high school building, providing a more conducive learning environment for the students.
An overhead tank was built with a grant of 25 lakh rupees from the government, facilitated by MLA Abhayachandra Jain. Additionally, 5000sqft of interlock was also provided. This infrastructure will benefit more than 1000 students by ensuring sufficient water supply. The work was carried out with the assistance of PK Thomas, the correspondent responsible for overseeing the project & also provided a clean drinking water facility.
Additionally, recognizing the requirement for safe transportation, two additional school buses were provided to ensure the students' secure commuting.
For the cleanliness of the surroundings, interlocks were installed, and marble was installed in front of the veranda, so the school looks beautiful.
The journey of the Silver Jubilee celebration of the school has been a remarkable one, filled with significant milestones and memorable moments. It all began in 2021 when the Silver Jubilee year was inaugurated on the momentous day of the Kannada Medium Centenary celebration, which was held on 22nd February. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the occasion was celebrated with grandeur and enthusiasm.
The organizing committee, led by the esteemed convenor Sudarshan Bhat, played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the Silver Jubilee celebrations. One of the highlights of the journey was the Old Students' Meet held on 28th August 2022, where the school had the honor of hosting Professor Jeevan Lawrence from Goa as the chief guest. The event witnessed the participation of around 200 ex-students, making it a truly memorable day as the school reconnected with its alumni.
Another significant event was the gathering of ex-students and present parents on 30th October 2022. This day brought together over 500 people who enjoyed a day filled with various activities and sports competitions. Throughout the Silver Jubilee year, various activities and events were conducted to engage the students and foster a sense of celebration. This chapter highlights some of the noteworthy student-centered initiatives and programs held in honor of the Silver Jubilee.
Students participated in a range of competitions, including speeches, crafts, cooking, sports, and Rangoli, showcasing their talents and skills.
On 17th December 2022 , the school's Silver Jubilee was celebrated in a grand manner, marking the culmination of a remarkable journey filled with achievements, memories, and growth. This chapter summarizes the essence of the Silver Jubilee celebrations, capturing the joy, pride, and unity that encompassed the event.
To commemorate this special milestone, the school initiated the Play Park project, which is currently underway, providing a dedicated space for students to engage in recreational activities.
Throughout the Silver Jubilee journey, the school has witnessed remarkable transformations.
Compiled by Catholic Time Staff.
History last updated in Dec 2022.
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