The story of Incarnation Catholic School began with a leap of faith—literally. In 1953, a parish raffle set the stage for what would become a pillar of Catholic education in Centerville. By 1957, the school welcomed its first 171 students, nurtured by six Precious Blood Sisters. Today, that small dream has flourished into a vibrant community serving nearly 970 students, rooted in faith and driven by a commitment to excellence.
Over the decades, Incarnation has evolved to meet the changing needs of its students. From classroom expansions in the 1960s to integrating smart boards and foreign language programs, the school has always balanced tradition with innovation. “Our goal has always been to create an academically rich and spiritually fulfilling environment,” shares Principal Leah Coghlan. “We want our students to feel supported in every aspect of their growth.”
But Incarnation’s story goes far beyond milestones and achievements. It is about the people who have shaped its legacy. Leaders like Sister Stelle and Cheryl Reichel set the tone for what would become a tradition of care and excellence. Today, under Coghlan’s leadership, that legacy is stronger than ever. “This school is not just about academics—it’s about building a community of faith where every student feels valued,” Coghlan adds.
Even in challenging times, the spirit of Incarnation has endured. During the economic downturn of the 2000s and the global pandemic, the school’s community came together, demonstrating resilience and faith. “We faced challenges head-on, and the support from our families and staff never wavered,” Coghlan reflects. These experiences have only strengthened the school’s mission to inspire students to walk in the footsteps of Jesus.
A World of Possibilities for Every Student
What sets Incarnation apart is the breadth of opportunities it offers. With its size and resources, the school has created a unique environment where every child can thrive. “Our size allows us to provide exceptional support services,” says Coghlan. These include two speech-language pathologists, two counselors, five interventionists, paraprofessionals, and even an occupational therapist, ensuring that students of all abilities receive the care they need.
The curriculum is equally impressive. The World Language Department introduces Spanish as early as preschool, adding French and German in fifth grade, and allowing students to earn high school credit by eighth grade. STEM education begins in kindergarten and grows into specialized classes by junior high. Arts programs shine with a dedicated theater program, a well-equipped art studio, and a range of music classes, from orchestra to band.
Academics are tailored to meet individual needs. Math and reading are heavily differentiated in grades five through eight, with three levels of reading and four levels of math. “We want every child to feel challenged but supported,” Coghlan emphasizes.
The school’s mission to follow in the footsteps of Jesus extends into its service projects. Older students actively engage with the community, seeing firsthand how service can make a difference. This emphasis on faith and action defines Incarnation’s culture. “We talk about what it means to walk in Jesus’ footsteps every day. It’s part of every conversation, every lesson,” Coghlan explains.
Incarnation’s influence doesn’t stop at its doors. Its graduates have gone on to excel as doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, Broadway performers, and professional athletes. “We are proud to see our alumni achieving their dreams and making a difference in the world,” Coghlan shares.
A Foundation of Faith
Every morning at Incarnation Catholic School begins with a simple yet powerful act: prayer. Whether in classrooms or as part of larger gatherings, this ritual reflects the school’s unwavering commitment to faith. For Incarnation, Catholic identity isn’t just something celebrated during Mass or on special occasions—it’s woven into the very fabric of daily life. “Our faith is at the core of everything we do. It’s not an addition to our curriculum; it’s the reason for our existence,” shares Coghlan.
Visual reminders of faith are found everywhere—crosses adorn walls, mission statements inspire, and prayer spaces invite reflection. Teachers don’t just educate; they embody values and nurture a community that aspires to “walk in the footsteps of Jesus.” Students see this modeled through conversations, interactions, and even the school’s disciplinary system, which encourages growth and learning through a lens of compassion and forgiveness.
Incarnation’s commitment to spiritual development extends beyond students. The full-time Director of Campus Ministry works tirelessly to create meaningful opportunities for faculty, staff, and parents to deepen their faith. Regular prayer breakfasts, retreats for every grade level, and weekly Masses led by students are just a few ways the school fosters a strong sense of community and shared purpose.
Service projects are another cornerstone. For two decades, the school has held a massive shoe drive to support a small Appalachian community, delivering over 12,000 pairs of shoes. Whether it’s feeding the hungry, supporting cancer awareness, or helping students in need with school supplies, these initiatives allow students to live their faith in tangible ways. “Service isn’t just something we do; it’s who we are,” says Coghlan. “We aim to show our students that faith in action can transform lives—including their own.”
The Pursuit of Excellence
Academically, Incarnation students consistently rise above the bar. National test scores place them in the top 85th percentile, and they’re often six to twelve months ahead of their peers in public schools. But this isn’t about competition; it’s about nurturing each student’s potential. “We’re proud to challenge our most advanced learners while ensuring all students thrive,” notes Coghlan.
Balancing tradition and innovation is a hallmark of the school’s approach. From mastering cursive handwriting to exploring cutting-edge AI applications, students gain skills that blend the best of yesterday and tomorrow. The integration of technology is seamless, with 1:1 device access beginning in kindergarten. Younger students use iPads to explore foundational skills, while older grades transition to laptops, equipped with tools like Microsoft programs and 3D printers for hands-on STEM projects.
STEM education begins early, sparking curiosity and creativity. By seventh grade, students can dive deeper into elective STEM courses, exploring everything from robotics to coding. And the options don’t stop there. Electives like Theater, Leadership, and even Excel through Fantasy Football provide avenues for students to discover their passions.
The arts also flourish at Incarnation, thanks in part to partnerships like Muse Machine. This local initiative brings resident artists into classrooms, inspiring students to choreograph dances, create music, and design art installations. From preschoolers crafting original productions to middle schoolers attending professional performances, the arts are a vital part of the school’s identity.
A Global Perspective
Diversity and cultural appreciation thrive at Incarnation. Students engage with world languages—Spanish, French, and German—starting in preschool and continuing through eighth grade. This emphasis on linguistic and cultural fluency prepares them for a connected world. Celebrations like World Language Week bring immersive activities, while displays like the Ofrenda in the lobby honor cultural traditions.
Flags representing students’ heritage greet every visitor, reminding all who enter that Incarnation is a community united by faith but enriched by diversity. “Our focus on world cultures isn’t just academic,” explains Coghlan. “It’s about helping our students understand and appreciate the beauty in differences.”
At its core, Incarnation Catholic School is more than an academic institution. It’s a place where faith meets innovation, tradition meets progress, and students are inspired to grow into compassionate, capable leaders.
A Legacy of Character and Growth
At Incarnation School, character education isn’t just a philosophy; it’s a lived experience. “We don’t expect our students to be perfect—far from it, actually,” shares Coghlan. Instead, the school embraces the imperfections of childhood as opportunities for growth. When mistakes are made, they become teachable moments, guiding students to take responsibility for their actions in a supportive environment.
This commitment to character development reflects the school’s mission: to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. It’s a mission that extends beyond academics, touching every aspect of student life. The conversations about expectations and values aren’t reserved for disciplinary moments—they’re part of a broader dialogue that helps shape young hearts and minds.
The possibilities for students at Incarnation are boundless. Whether it’s the athlete discovering a passion for theater or the tech enthusiast finding joy on the basketball court, the school encourages exploration and self-discovery. “It’s amazing to watch children push boundaries and expose themselves to a wide variety of interests,” Coghlan remarks. This openness to new experiences fosters well-rounded individuals who grow not only in knowledge but also in confidence and resilience.
The spirit of service is woven deeply into the fabric of Incarnation School. From writing heartfelt letters to seniors and service members to mission trips in Kentucky and Georgia, students learn the profound impact of giving back. Service begins as a simple act of kindness in the classroom and evolves into meaningful, hands-on contributions to the community. These experiences teach students that their actions, no matter how small, can make a difference in the world.
Adapting While Preserving Tradition
Balancing tradition with innovation is no small feat, but it’s a hallmark of Incarnation School’s philosophy. While the school remains deeply rooted in its Catholic identity and high standards, it is also unafraid to evolve. “We have a very specific culture which we work hard to protect and grow,” Coghlan explains. Every change is made thoughtfully, ensuring it enhances the school’s mission rather than detracting from it.
Visitors often comment on the unique atmosphere at Incarnation—it’s something intangible yet unmistakable. This carefully nurtured culture is part of what makes the school feel different, a place where faith, community, and excellence come together seamlessly.
Looking to the future, Incarnation School has set its sights on growth. Establishing an endowment is a bold step for a parish-subsidized elementary school, but it’s a necessary one. The endowment ensures that the school’s initiatives, such as expanding the preschool program and strengthening special education, are sustainable for years to come.
Inclusion is more than a buzzword at Incarnation—it’s a core value. The school welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and with varying learning abilities, fostering a rich, dynamic environment where everyone feels valued. “Strengthening our culture of acceptance, tolerance, and love is at the forefront of our future planning,” Coghlan affirms.
By holding fast to its high standards while embracing thoughtful change, Incarnation School continues to set the bar for excellence. Its unwavering commitment to students, families, and faith ensures that its legacy will endure for generations.
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