Receiving enough votes to establish them as a finalist truly reflects the fact that St. Paul Catholic School has been a longstanding community of support. For nearly 95 years, the school has been a home to all who enter– becoming an extension of their families.

Founded by the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany in 1930, the school has been home to generations of families in the St. Petersburg area. Containing a deep spirituality rooted in Franciscan charism, students consistently prove that they are capable of incredible things when rooted in a prayerful, supportive, and challenging environment.

“I am thankful because we would not be here today without the vision, dedication, and foresight of the Franciscan Sisters who opened these doors in 1930,” said Brendan Butcher, principal of St. Paul Catholic School.

St. Paul Catholic School has been able to accomplish all that it has through the relationship with and support from the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, including Sister Joan Carberry and Sister Kathleen Stagnaro, as well as St. Paul Catholic Church and its clergy members Monsignor Robert Gibbons and Father Tim Williford.

Being part of such an accomplished and well-supported school community is an honor for Brendan Butcher.

“It is humbling to be the leader of such a remarkable and esteemed institution. To see St. Paul receive this honor makes me extremely proud and thankful. I am proud because every member that feels tied to this community, from the parishioner who contributes to the Sunday offertory, the parent who volunteers at the annual festival, the teacher who spends their evenings grading papers, or the alum who still considers themself an eagle at heart, should all take ownership of this award and be so proud of the role they played in it,” said Butcher.

The winner of the “Best of the Best” contest in each of the many categories will be announced by the Tampa Bay Times on August 25, 2024.