Big things are happening at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School (SFX)! Earlier this year, it was announced that a new 30,000 square foot campus for pre-school through 8th grade will be constructed on the corner of Grant and Howe Streets in downtown Brunswick, extending the existing footprint of St. Francis Catholic Church and School to the west side of both Grant and Newcastle Streets and on to the east side of Bay Street. The campus will offer spacious classrooms, state-of-the-art labs, and an age-appropriate library in modern design, inspired by architects Felder and Associates. There is a 10-level enrollment capacity of 300 students, and current enrollment is 174. Classes will begin in the new structures in the fall of 2022.
Deacon Terry Mermann, Ed.D., Principal, says, “The groundbreaking ceremony is like a dream come true. For the past ten years, there have been discussions about what to do to enhance the appearance of our 63-year-old school building. Our School Advisory Board, Parish Council, and the Bishop of the Diocese all agreed that building a new school would be the wisest decision. The new school will offer a state-of-the-art computer lab, science lab, art studio, media center, spacious classrooms, and a modern design to enhance the education of all students.” He continues, “Within the walls of this modern building, SFX students will continue to be challenged in academics as they engage in their educations and enjoy their special interests such as the arts, robotics, chess, musical endeavors, and sports.”
“I believe the new school building will allow us to continue a 120-year tradition of passing on faith, education and formation in the Golden Isles,” adds Fr. Timothy McKeown, Pastor. “For sixty years classes were held in the old convent, and sixty years in our property on Union Street, so the new property is an opportunity to build on this legacy with a state-of-the-art building that our students, teachers, parents and parish can be excited about!”
Sufficient funds have been raised from SFX alumni, past and current parents, as well as generous support from SFX and St. Williams Catholic Church parishes along with the embrace of the Golden Isles Community at large, for the Diocese to authorize the securing of contracts and permits for the new campus. At present, the all-in estimates for the structure are at $9.5M in a rapidly rising construction environment. Over half of the all-in project cost has been received in gifts and pledges. Fundraising will continue to secure additional support for construction and, if needed, to reduce the debt burden following the opening. Fr. McKeown stresses, “The School could not have reached this important milestone without the engagement of the parish and school communities as well as that of the greater Golden Isles. The already well-supported students attending our current Union Street building will soon be even better equipped and prepared for their continued education.”
Inspired by the Sisters of St. Joseph, the mission of St. Francis Xavier Catholic School provides an excellent academic foundation, promotes spiritual formation, and inspires within each student the desire to serve others. Reggie Jackson and his wife Pamela chose SFX for their daughter Jocelyn so she would have “a solid academic and social foundation that is rooted in Christian principles and a challenging curriculum that demands focus and perseverance.” Jackson says, “Jocelyn is the second Jackson to attend SFX. Her 1st cousin, Montana Jackson graduated from SFX and is currently a senior at Glynn Academy. Like Montana, Jocelyn also began SFX during the Mothers Morning Out (MMO) Pre-School at 3-years-old. Now in 7th Grade, Jocelyn loves being with her friends at school and learning new academic skills.”
Jackson commends the school’s principal on his work at the school and shares his excitement about the new building. “Dr. Terry Merrman has a very difficult job, and he is very committed to it. Supervising educators, providing services that appease parents, and carrying out his ministerial duties can be extremely difficult, specifically during the last 2 years in a pandemic. I think it is very timely that the Savannah Diocese decided on the option of new construction. Jocelyn is very excited about the possibility of learning in the new facility and being the first graduating class.”
Beth and Matt Lemke, parents of 7-year-old twin daughters, Abigail and Julia, who are in 2nd Grade also share their love for SFX. Beth says they were drawn by the size of the school. She explains, “There is so much opportunity for the girls at SFX, but with a personalized experience and more one on one interaction with their teachers and instructors. We also love the fact that they are growing spiritually, as well as experiencing a challenging academic curriculum. This is our second year at SFX, and we are so happy with the school!” She says while everyone at the school with whom they’ve interacted deserves a shout out, teachers Amanda Murphy and Tracey Glass have a special place in their hearts. Mrs. Murphy “gave the girls the perfect experience at a new school as their 1st Grade teacher. She was amazing.” And, she adds, Mrs. Glass, their 2nd Grade teacher, has done so much for them this year. They are really excelling in her class!”
Fr. McKeown says, “Carrying on the rich traditions of academic excellence, extracurricular activities, competitive spirit, and spiritual growth and development that have always been indicative of St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, our students will now prosper within a modern facility that reflects the quality of the education our students experience. We at St. Francis Xavier are so excited that our new school building will coincide with the spirit of revitalization of Historic Downtown Brunswick.” St. Francis Xavier Catholic School’s heritage of providing a faith-filled education in a safe and nurturing environment will be enhanced in a contemporary setting where all children will thrive academically and grow spiritually.
