Eight grade students from Holy Redeemer Catholic School in Kissimmee begin their final year at the school. (COURTESY)
Students from 38 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Orlando began the school year Aug. 10, 2026. Teachers and administrators welcomed them onto campuses across nine counties. Opening day Masses included Bishop John Noonan’s celebration of Mass at Bishop Moore Catholic High School. Carrying forward the year’s theme of “Drawing New Maps of Hope,” named after Pope Leo XIV’s apostolic letter on education, educators go forth knowing God is before them and God is with them, as stated in Bishop Noonan’s episcopal motto.
Father Kenneth Gill, Pastor of Ascension Parish in Melbourne, blesses students on the first day of the 2026-2027 school year at Ascension Catholic School on Aug. 10, 2026. (COURTESY)
Students from All Souls Catholic School in Sanford are ready to start another school year. (COURTESY)
Catherine Vicencio, second-grade teacher at St. Margaret Mary Catholic School in Winter Park, welcomes students back to school. (COURTESY)
Father Miguel Gonzalez, left, rector of St. James Cathedral in Orlando, and Father Phillip Mills, right, parochial vicar, welcome teachers and students on the first day of school at St. James Cathedral School. (COURTESY)
Father Matthew Hawkins, pastor of Annunciation Parish in Altamonte Springs, blesses students with holy water at Annunciation Catholic Academy. (COURTESY)
