As St. Stephen School begins its 81st school year, the school community is welcoming new faces, new opportunities and new ways to support its students and families.

One of the most exciting changes is the return of preschool. The school is pleased to welcome Mrs. Melissa Minium as its new Preschool Director. With years of early childhood education experience, including her time as a preschool teacher at the Titusville YMCA, Mrs. Minium will lead the program for children ages 4 and 5. Preschool operates five full days a week and provides a warm, nurturing environment where children build academic, social and spiritual foundations for kindergarten. Students will also have opportunities to participate in portions of the school day alongside K–8 students, creating connections and a sense of belonging within the school community.

This year, St. Stephen School is also introducing standards-based grading for students in Grades K–4. This more personalized approach allows teachers to identify what each student has mastered, where they are growing and where they are ready to be challenged. An online platform will give students, parents and teachers a clearer picture of individual learning goals and progress.

The school is also strengthening its foundation of faith with two new members of its community. Sarah Schwab will serve as Religion teacher and Campus Minister while also serving as Youth Minister for St. Titus and St. Joseph Parishes. The partnership will create additional opportunities for students to grow in faith and put that faith into action through service and outreach.

St. Stephen School also welcomes Fr. Festus, Associate Pastor of St. Joseph and St. Titus Parishes, who will teach Religion to middle school students. Originally from Nigeria, Fr. Festus is serving as a missionary priest in the Diocese of Erie and will bring valuable experiences and perspectives about the Catholic Church around the world.

Together, these additions and initiatives are helping St. Stephen School continue its mission of providing an education where students can learn, grow in faith, serve others and discover their place in a world much bigger than themselves.

Learn more about St. Stephen School at venangocatholic.org.

This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s September 2026 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.