August 2026

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to St. Rita Catholic School for the 2026 to 2027 school year! We hope the pages of the Student and Parent Handbook provide you with a clear understanding of the mission, philosophy, policies, and procedures that guide our school community.

We ask all students and parents to carefully read and review each section of the Handbook. It also includes our Parent Covenant of Ethics and Conduct, developed by the Mission Effectiveness Committee of the Advisory Council in collaboration with parents and faculty. As parents, you are the primary educators of your children, and we are grateful that you have chosen St. Rita because we share the same commitment to faith, academic excellence, and the formation of young servant leaders. This covenant serves as a visible reminder of the partnership we share in nurturing our children.

Please acknowledge that you have read the Handbook by completing the required acknowledgment in the Magnus portal for each child. The Handbook is available electronically throughout the school year for your convenience. Please note that updates or amendments may be made during the year as needed.

As we begin this new school year, I invite you to join Father Josh, our faculty, staff, and parish community as we continue our mission of proclaiming the Gospel and pursuing excellence in Catholic education.

Our Scripture theme for the 2026 to 2027 school year is:

"Endurance produces character, and character produces hope." Romans 5:4

This verse reminds us that growth is often forged through perseverance. As students encounter academic challenges, strengthen friendships, deepen their faith, and serve others, they will discover that enduring with courage shapes their character. In turn, that character becomes the foundation of a hope that is firmly rooted in Christ. It is our prayer that every member of the St. Rita community embraces this call to persevere with faith, confidence, and joy throughout the coming year.

Thank you for your continued partnership, trust, and commitment to the St. Rita community. Together, we will help our students grow in faith, hope, love, and the joyful pursuit of knowledge.

We Are St. Rita!

Sincerely in Christ, 

Dr. Lara Henderson, Ed.D, MLA, BS EDCI

Principal

Mr. Michael Wixted, M.Ed., M.A. EdL., MBA

President

Rev. Josh Whitfield 

Pastoral Administrator 

Mr. Chase Park 

Advisory Council President

How To Use This Site:

• All major sections of the Handbook can be found using the sidebar.

• If you are looking for specific information, be welcome to use the search feature in the top right corner.

• CSO stands for the Catholic Schools Office of the Diocese of Dallas. 

• Please be sure to digitally sign off on Magnus on/or before August 20, 2026.