St. Peter Claver Catholic School

It has been a beacon of hope for thousands of children in Tampa. And even though it exists in a tough neighborhood.. criminals leave it alone. What is it?

In "Assignment: Education".. Bill Ratliff takes us to St. Peter Claver.. a private Catholic school serving the African-American community for 105-years!

In the shadow of downtown Tampa exists an institution that has spanned decades and educated thousands. Even today its mission continues.. in what has become a crime ridden neighborhood. But the banner on the front of St. Peter Claver Catholic School says it best... "Here to stay. Will not sway."

--((Teacher, Ms. Evonne Forte:)) "Listen. This is what I want you to tell me.. that the antinostic (sp?) was carved out of the what? The mountain rock."--

Second Grade teacher Evonne Forte is one of the rocks at St. Peter Claver. She's been there 28-years... she leads her class with enthusiasm and patience. But that's what you see throughout the school.. positive re-inforcement.. building self esteem.
It's why Wonder Jordan sends her son James to the school... thanks to the goodness of a mentor who pays his tuition. She says what he is learning is invaluable.

--((Mom, Wonder Jordan says:)) "The pride.. education.. the ability to take care of himself to give something back in life."--

Principal Sister Thomas Joseph says many come because of family tradition.. because it's a black school.. a Christian school. But most of all.. because of what it instills in the students.

--((Principal, Sister Thomas Joseph says:)) "Values.. that we teach values to children.. that will enable them hopefull to continue with their values."--

The pastor at St. Peter Claver Church.. Father Ed Lamb.. says what the school really gives the children.. and has forever.. is a sense of hope.

--((Pastor, Father Ed Lamb says:)) "I think if we exist here for any reason.. any reason whatsoever.. it's that we are saying to these kids you can become somebody."--

With 55-percent of the students on some kind of tuition assistance at St. Peter Claver.. financial help is always needed. And with plans to add an Eighth Grade next year.. its needs will be even greater. If you would like to help St. Peter Claver School and enjoy an evening of entertainment.. a special Bishop's Ball will be held at the Italian Club in Tampa on March 6th at 6:30pm. Call 223-7098 for ticket information. Bill Ratliff, Newschannel 8.

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