History & Traditions
Nativity Catholic School has been a celebrated part of the Brandon community for more than 60 years. We first opened our doors in 1961 to 95 students in grades 1 through 6. Four Sisters of the Most Holy Trinity established the school, which consisted of one portable building and rooms at Nativity Catholic Church as classrooms.
In fall 1962, construction began on six classrooms. By 1969, the growing student body required three additional portable classrooms. The social hall was built in 1970, and by 1972, it was clear Nativity Catholic School needed a second floor on the original building.
In 1977, Sister Irene St. Jean, C.S.C., began her leadership of the school, and enrollment reached nearly 600 students. Once again, construction was needed to prepare and inspire more and more children to achieve their God-given potential. In 1985, the school added nine classrooms, a chapel, a media center, an art studio, a science lab, a technology center, and an administration wing to the school complex. In 1997, a second floor was added to house the media center and an enlarged technology center. The construction of a youth center, gymnasium, and new meeting space was completed in 2010.
Thanks to the Lord's abundant blessings, Nativity Catholic School now educates and cares for 550 students annually from age 3 through 8th grade. On average, 15% of children who attend Nativity are second-generation students whose parents also attended Nativity -- a testament to the close-knit bonds, exceptional education, and enduring impact Nativity provides to children and families.
School Traditions
Through the years, the Nativity community has adopted special moments and events that build faith, friendships, and fun. Here are just a few you can expect to look forward to here:
- Weekly Mass on Wednesday mornings the entire school attends
- Sacrament of Reconciliation and First Eucharist Celebrations
- Middle school retreats
- Catholic Schools Week activities, including a church and school open house
- Living Rosary in October
- Novemberfest fall festival
- School Christmas program
- Annual gala and auction