A Glimpse of Mission History

Colegio Monseñor Gregorio Schaffer, commonly known as the Mission School, opened in 1968. Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame and Father Greg Schaffer, the goal was to provide education to children in and around San Lucas Tolimán, especially the indigenous Maya population, which had historically been denied the opportunity to study.

Today, the school is still providing preschool through 6th grade education to more than 600 students annually. With a focus on Montessori in the younger grades and vocational opportunities for older students, the school has developed a reputation for a rigorous, Catholic education which serves the whole person.

In the slideshow below, you’ll find some of the earliest photos we have of the Mission School in the 70s, 80s, and 90s.