History
St. Ann's School Mandapeta commenced its journey with the acquisition of a land measuring 95 cents from Mrs. Atchutamba, Mr. P. Ramanna, and Mr. V. Paparao. Guided by the visionary Provincial Superior, Mother Elizabeth Ann, and with the cooperation of Fr. N. Stephen, the Parish priest, the school took shape through the philanthropic support of the local community. This history reflects a collaborative effort, blending vision, cooperation, and local generosity, laying the foundation for a thriving educational institution in Mandapeta. Sr. Tara, along with a companion from Kapileswarapuram, took on social work responsibilities, responding to public pressure to expand services with the establishment of an English Medium school due to the locality's educational gaps. This endeavor involved introducing new concepts, fostering profound understanding, and enriching the community through education. This report outlines events from June 18, 1995, where Regional Superior Sr. Tresa Ann entrusted Sr. Michael and Sr. Ann Jose with the task of planning and organizing a purchased land and residence. On June 26, 1995, Sr. Michael and Sr. Ann Jose left Mandapeta, passing the responsibility to Sr. Consolata and Sr. Rose Jose, who became pioneers of the institution. St. Ann's Home in Mandapeta was inaugurated on July 9, 1995, with the gracious approval and assistance of Mother General Sr. Heidy Loser, Provincial Superior Sr. Tresa Ann, and the entire council, along with benefactors. We express gratitude to them and acknowledge their contributions, giving thanks to the Almighty.
On February 2, 1996, the pioneer sisters initiated the preparatory phase of the school. Initially, the school began humbly in a shed. By June 1, twenty children were enrolled, and by the official opening on June 17, the number had grown to 60. Sr. Consolata served as the first correspondent, Sr. Rose Jose as the Headmistress, with the addition of Sr. Theresa as part of the staff. The initial shed was replaced by a solid school building, and the inauguration took place on June 12, 1997. Rev. Fr. Kurian, our parish priest, conducted the blessings, attended by Regional Superior Sr. Tresa Ann and her assistant Sr. Clementa. Sisters from Rajamundry and Kapieswarapuram, along with elders, parents, and children, graced the occasion. It marked a memorable day, etched in golden letters in Mandapeta's history. During that year, Sr. Consolata and Sr. Rose Jose were transferred, and Sr. Thalitha became the correspondent, with Sr. Pradeepa appointed as the Headmistress. At that time, the school had 220 students and a staff consisting of three sisters and one lay staff member. It seems like the school maintains a serene atmosphere, and the sisters engage in village apostolate during their leisure time, contributing to the charm of the environment. In 1998, a year marked by blessings and labor, Sr. Simon joined the school on June 3rd. The school flourished with a rising strength of 298, but sorrows also touched us as two students lost their parents. The torrential monsoon wreaked havoc in Godavari District, causing the destruction of many houses, leading to evacuations. Despite challenges, we felt God's love and care throughout the journey. In 1999, Sr. Pradeepa left for theology studies in Pune, and Sr. Mable assumed control of the school. The first-floor construction was completed through God's grace, and Rev. Fr. Kurian blessed it on June 17th, attended by sisters from neighboring communities and our staff. On June 30th this year, we acquired 1 acre 30 cents of land. Currently, we have 416 students (238 boys, 178 girls) up to the 3rd grade, with plans to add a new class each year. Admissions are open to all. We foster students' talents beyond academics, promoting their creativity and ingenuity through weekly literacy and cultural competitions. Optional dance classes enhance their skills, and recently, our students adorned Kapieswarapuram stage for the hospital Jubilee on July 28th. Staff prayers precede daily assemblies, where students confidently take the lead. Important regional and national festivals such as Independence Day, St. Ann's Feast, Teachers' Day, Children's Day, and Christmas are observed with proper significance. Conducting staff seminars is a regular annual program. Mr. G. Satyanarayan, the District Inspector of Schools, visited our institution on September 14, 1999. Impressed by our school management, facilities, and the academic and non-academic performance of the children, he remarked, "Astar shining in the locality of Mandapeta." Thanks to his positive feedback, our school in Mandapeta secured the much-needed opening permission for classes I to V from the District Education Officer in Kakinada.
We organize routine tests and final exams to instill consistent study habits in students. Saturdays are dedicated to supporting weaker students, and supervised study sessions run daily from 8:00 am to 8:30 am. The school follows the State Government's working pattern. Engaged in a literacy initiative, we uphold discipline, punctuality, and uniformity while prioritizing the well-being of students. Regular prayer meetings mark important occasions, and a first aid box ensures prompt attention to any health concerns. Our team and students have rallied together in compassion during dire situations, generously supporting those affected by the cyclone and Kargil tragedy. Our contributions, both in funds and clothing, reflect our commitment to aiding those in need.
Our institution is dedicated to nurturing students into well-rounded individuals, fostering both mental and physical well-being. We focus on developing strong character, fostering aptitude, and instilling a work ethic. Our goal is to train students in making sound moral decisions rooted in a well-formed conscience, encouraging them to translate these principles into meaningful actions with a personal commitment. Our educational philosophy centers around imparting values for a holistic education. Grateful for the Almighty's blessings throughout the year, we extend heartfelt thanks to Sr. Heidy Loser, our visionary superior general, and Sr. Immaculate, the calm assistant mother general. Special appreciation to Sr. Elizabeth Ann, Sr. Tresa Ann, their councillors, and present provincial Sr. AnnJose for their guidance. Your generosity and discernment made our mission in Mandapeta a reality. Marching forward with deep appreciation for all. The permission for opening of classes I to V was accorded by the D. E.O Kakinada and temporary recognition for primary section was obtained in the year 2000. Successive classes were opened and temporary recognition for the High school were obtained in 2007.
18 batches of students a student’s appeared for the Board Examinations and successfully completed their Secondary education. St. Ann's School Mandapeta secured 2nd highest town during the year 2007,and won 4 Pratibha awards in the year 2015, one in 2016, one in 2017 and one in 2018. School children from all the sections of the community, irrespective of caste, creed and colours hence there is heavy competitions. At present there are 960 students and 40 staff working in the school. School is well furnished with adequate infrastructure. We are grateful for the support, prayers and co-operation of our present Provincial Superior Rev.Sr.Sandrina and Team for the betterment of the institution and its endeavors.