SAINT LEO THE GREAT
CATHOLIC SCHOOL

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Home of the Lions

- Please join us in celebrating Catholic Schools Week! It starts with School Mass together on January 26 at the 9 am Mass, followed by Open House and a fun-filled week.
- For our little lions, we offer an Open House for all rising Kindergarteners, both accepted and prospective students. Registration is required and children must be accompanied by a parent. Enjoy story time, crafts, snack, and meet our amazing teachers. Questions? Email admissions@saintleothegreatschool.org.
  RSVP HERE
- Educating the 21st Century Child
  
  Welcome to Saint Leo the Great Catholic School! Located in the heart of Fairfax City, we provide a nurturing community dedicated to the success of every child. We strive to create a well-rounded environment that supports students in every aspect of their daily life. Our school is a vibrant place, family oriented and alive with time-honored traditions that bring our community together. From annual events and cherished class customs to our dynamic parent volunteers, our diverse community creates a sense of unity and belonging, fostering a unique and enduring school spirit and a place to call home.
Service. Tradition. Legacy.
- Service
  
  We believe in the power of service to transform lives. Our students are encouraged to express compassion for others through service to each other, our community, and those around us. As part of our cross-curricular enrichment, service is not just an activity; it's a way of life at Saint Leo, rooted in our Catholic identity.
- Tradition
  
  Faith is the cornerstone of our education at Saint Leo. As a ministry of the Church, we provide a spiritually enriching environment where students grow in their Catholic faith and build a strong moral foundation, creating a pathway to academic excellence and ultimately, success. With Saint Leo as our example, each person is "called to greatness."
- Legacy
  
  Since 1957, we have taken pride in our rich history that spans generations. Here, innovation integrates with tradition to help our students become global citizens and examples of Christ. Our alumni are a testament of our legacy as they go forth and make a positive impact on the world, leading the way with excellence and tools for life.
- Our History
  
  Saint Leo the Great Catholic School, founded in 1955 by Father Herman J. Veger, has a rich history of dedication and growth. Initially supported by Saint Mary's Parish in Fairfax Station, the school began with a classroom for first and second graders at Saint Charles School in Arlington in 1955. By 1957, the school expanded, converting Saint Leo's Church nave into temporary classrooms and adding a Kindergarten Building in 1958. The Benedictine Sisters initially administered the school, succeeded by the Sisters of Notre Dame in 1966, maintaining high academic and spiritual standards.
  Mrs. Diane Drews, the first lay principal appointed in 1993, led the school to receive the Blue Ribbon of Excellence in 2006. Innovations continued with a student-run TV studio in the 1990s and the establishment of the St. John Vianney Center in 2003 for students with special needs. Mr. David DiPippa served as principal for 16 years, furthering the mission of excellence.
  Voted the 2024 Porto Charities Outstanding employer, Saint Leo has an incredible community and respect for all life. Principal Cindi Harkes seeks to foster the success of each child and inspire all to be "called to greatness." The school’s enduring success is a testament to the parish's commitment to providing a quality Catholic education and follow the example of Saint Leo the Great, Pope and Doctor of the Church.
Parent Testimonials