mEET OUR pRINCIPAL

Mrs. Vanessa Rivas
 
As Principal of St. Bernard School, I believe that every child is created in the image and likeness of God and deserves an education that nurtures the whole person: mind, heart, and spirit. My mission is to ensure that every decision we make reflects our commitment to forming disciples of Christ while providing an academically challenging, safe, and loving environment where every student can thrive.
 
I hold a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of Notre Dame's Mary Ann Remick Leadership Program, a nationally recognized program dedicated to forming transformational Catholic school leaders through rigorous academic preparation, intentional community, and spiritual formation. This experience has strengthened my commitment to leading with faith, excellence, and service, and has equipped me with the knowledge and vision to help Catholic schools flourish.
 
Leadership, to me, is rooted in service. I strive to lead with faith, integrity, compassion, and accountability, working alongside our dedicated faculty, supportive families, parish community, and students to build a culture where Christ is visible in all that we do. Together, we foster an environment where students are encouraged to discover their God-given talents, embrace responsibility, serve others, and pursue excellence.
 
At St. Bernard School, our mission is to continue the work of Jesus by nurturing each child's unique gifts and helping them become positive examples who respect all people and share responsibility for others' needs. Guided by this mission, I am committed to strengthening our Catholic identity, advancing academic excellence, cultivating innovative teaching, and ensuring that every child is known, valued, and challenged to reach their fullest potential.
 
My vision is for St. Bernard School to be a community where faith inspires learning, leadership is modeled through service, and every student graduates prepared to live the Gospel with courage, integrity, and compassion. By partnering with our families, parish, and community, we are forming lifelong learners, faithful disciples, and servant leaders who are ready to make a positive impact on the Church and the world.
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It is both a privilege and a blessing to serve the St. Bernard School community. I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside our students and families as we continue to grow together in faith, knowledge, and service, building a future rooted in Christ and dedicated to excellence.