History
In 1960, Sister Mary Evangeline Randolph, RSM recognized the need Omaha had for a school to educate children with special needs, a place where they could learn, grow and belong. At the time, she was teaching three students at St. James Orphanage, who had cognitive disabilities and could not enroll in the public school system. They had no where else to go for an education. Sister Evangeline was determined to help teach these children, and thus Madonna School was conceived. Word spread in the community of the special classes she was conducting, and several other students enrolled. The school was originally called Omaha Archdiocesan School for Exceptional Children; however, the name was later changed to Madonna School.
Sr. Evangeline and Madonna students celebrating their achievements at the old school building in 1973.
By 1970, there were 38 children attending classes, and Madonna School was experiencing growing pains. Through the generosity of many donors and volunteers, Sister Evangeline was able to purchase a church in the Benson area and remodel it to accommodate the growing number of students. The school remained at this site for over 30 years.
Ground was broken for the new Madonna School on April 28, 2003.
Madonna School has evolved from its humble beginnings in the St. James Orphanage to a beautiful 20,000-square-foot building, which opened its doors in August 2004. This new handicapped-accessible facility has seven classrooms, a library, chapel, gymnasium and a learning apartment where students practice essential life skills such as cooking and doing laundry. The school building has allowed staff to improve special programs for the students such as speech therapy, music, art and vocational training. All of Madonna School's accomplishments would not have been possible without the unwavering support of so many generous volunteers from the community. As Madonna School has grown and changed over the years, Sister Evangeline's original mission of enabling special needs students to achieve their full potential continues to remain steadfast.
Students wish Sr. Evangeline a happy birthday.
