For 60 years, St. Norbert Catholic School has been more than just a place of learning, it has been a second home for generations of many families in Orange. From its modest beginnings to its vibrant present, the school has carried on a legacy of faith, education and community that continues to shape students and their families, decade after decade.
Founded in 1965 by the Presentation Sisters, the school, serving preschool through 8th grade, started with just a few classrooms and a mission to provide a strong education grounded in faith. As the City of Orange grew, so did St. Norbert, expanding facilities and programs while maintaining the same community connection that initially drew families and keeps generations coming back.
Adam Ernst’s family spans three generations at St. Norbert Catholic School. Following in his father’s footsteps, who was in one of the school’s first graduating classes, Ernst and his siblings also attended and now his two children proudly carry on the legacy.
“It takes you back to all your good memories, and we know our kids are creating those types of memories there—just like my dad did back in the 1960s,” says Ernst.
Principal Joe Ciccoianni believes St. Norbert is blessed to have been founded by the Presentation Sisters, who instilled a lasting sense of loyalty, dedication and faith within the community.
Many traditions have endured through the years, such as the Veterans Day Mass, the May Crowning, the Christmas Program, Special Person’s Day, and the beloved Nano Nagle Award.
Born in 1718, Honora “Nano” Nagle, founder of the Presentation Sisters, devoted her life to faith, education and service to others. In honor of the 300th anniversary of her birth, St. Norbert Catholic School dedicated a statue to Nano on campus, a lasting reminder of her mission to serve. Each year the school continues her legacy through the Nano Nagle Award, presented to a teacher who exemplifies her spirit of faith and service.
“Every single teacher looks forward to the award,” says Ciccoianni. Announcing the winner is one of his favorite times of the year. Students are thrilled to see their chosen teacher win, and many educators are overcome with emotion by the recognition.
That same appreciation extends beyond the faculty to the families, whose faith and involvement have been vital to the school’s 60 years of success.
Perry Mendoza, whose wife, Laura, is an alumna, had two daughters recently graduate from St. Norbert Catholic School. The Mendozas even relocated to Orange so their daughters could start school there.
“The strength of St. Norbert is the faculty and the staff,” says Perry, who appreciates Ciccoianni’s leadership and shares the belief that the school is supported by an exceptional team. “Attending St. Norbert has had a very positive impact on our kids.”
At St. Norbert Catholic School, students are taught that service and growth are a part of daily life, whether through volunteering, participating in extracurricular activities or leading through student positions. In classrooms, teachers blend faith with modern learning, helping students think critically and compassionately.
As a small school, St. Norbert offers intimate classes led by dedicated educators. Students like the Mendoza daughters are encouraged to participate in sports, arts and academics that they have an interest in, opportunities not always found in public schools. These experiences, along with daily worship and prayer, have made the Mendoza family proud to be a part of St. Norbert’s history.
“We absolutely found a home there,” says Laura, “and continue to feel blessed for those foundational years for our family.”
St. Norbert Catholic School will celebrate their 60th anniversary on November 8, featuring the Presentation Sisters, and marking 60 years of tradition, growth and community.
St. Norbert Catholic School
300 East Taft Ave., Orange, CA 92865 / 714-637-6822
