Celebrating 100 Years in the United States
The story of Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic School, Tustin, is inseparable from its namesake, Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac, who founded the Company of Mary in 1607. Her educational vision, formed during a time of cultural turmoil and great need, remains remarkably relevant today. This year, as the Company of Mary celebrates 100 years of mission and ministry in the United States, the legacy of Saint Jeanne’s vision becomes even more profound, as a century of the Sisters’ presence, service, and dedication continues to shape hearts, minds, and communities.
At the core of the school’s philosophy is a deep commitment to seeing each child as uniquely created and gifted by God. Teachers strive to offer personalized attention, recognizing that every student learns differently and grows at their own pace. This individualized approach is not simply an educational technique; it is a reflection of the belief that each child carries a distinct light and purpose. Faith formation at Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac is not confined to religion class or weekly Mass; it is a living, breathing part of daily life, woven seamlessly into conversations, relationships, and the choices students make. This intentional integration reflects the vision and dedication of the Sisters of the Company of Mary, who founded the school with a steadfast commitment to educating the whole child — mind, heart, and spirit. Their mission continues to guide the school today, as lay teachers and staff participate in ongoing formation programs designed to immerse them in the charism of the Sisters.
Through mentoring by the Sisters, retreats, and professional development workshops, experienced faculty and staff are trained to integrate the teachings of Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac and Gospel values into every lesson, classroom interaction, and school activity. They learn to model virtues such as compassion, integrity, and responsibility, and to recognize teachable moments where faith and character can be cultivated naturally. This holistic formation ensures that students experience a consistent, faith-driven environment throughout the day, where prayer, reflection, and moral guidance are seamlessly woven into academics, play, and service. In this way, the Sisters’ dedication to forming hearts and minds continues to ripple outward, shaping students to live their faith authentically and intentionally, moment by moment.
Within this environment, intellectual curiosity is nurtured, and critical thinking is encouraged. Students learn to ask meaningful questions, engage deeply with ideas, and explore the world with wonder. Their academic formation is not about memorizing facts but about developing a lifelong love of learning rooted in truth and reason.
Respect for human dignity underscores every interaction on campus. Students are taught — and shown — that every person is worthy of kindness, compassion, and honor. This respect forms the foundation for a safe, loving community where differences are valued and each child feels seen and supported. Flowing naturally from this respect is the call to serve. Service is not an isolated activity; it is an expression of faith and a way of responding to God’s presence in others. Whether helping classmates, supporting school outreach efforts, or contributing to the parish community, students learn that their gifts are meant to be shared, and that service is a powerful way to live out Christ’s love.
These ideals have been woven into the culture and identity of the Tustin school since its inception. Teachers and administrators, lay and religious, work in partnership with families, honoring the calling Saint Jeanne herself embraced: to walk with the young, guide them, and shape them into people capable of transforming the world. As we celebrate 100 years of the Company of Mary in the United States, the school stands as a living testament to this enduring mission — a century of fidelity to forming students in faith, virtue, wisdom, and service.
