From a young student who returned to lead her school to thousands of children and families shaped by its mission, St. Joseph Parish School celebrates 80 years of education, faith and service.
When Beverly Sandobal walks through the halls of St. Joseph Parish School in Waipahu, she remembers the teachers who inspired her, the friendships she made and the traditions that shaped her childhood.
Sandobal once walked these halls as a student. Today, she leads the school as its principal.
"When I was offered a teaching position and returned to the school where I once walked, I felt it was a privilege to teach at the school that provided me with the faith formation and academic education that shaped the person I am today," Sandobal recalled.
Founded in 1946 by the Sacred Hearts Fathers, St. Joseph has educated thousands of children. For many, it became a second home where lifelong friendships began and children learned compassion, responsibility and service. Since 1986, the school has been under the guidance of the Missionaries of Our Lady of La Salette (MS).
A Legacy Passed From One Generation to the Next
Sandobal remembers school Masses, Christmas and May Day celebrations, serving lunches and mentoring younger children. As an eighth grader, she led physical education activities for younger students, learning leadership and patience.
Sister Jerome Mulligan, CSJ who hired Sandobal as a teacher, became an important mentor. When Sandobal became the school's first lay principal, Sister Jerome expressed pride in seeing her continue its mission.
Sandobal also credits former vice principals Diane Esdicul and Sister Judith Abique, SPC with strengthening her faith and teaching her compassionate leadership.
Today, she works with Pastor Father Eric Castro, MS to strengthen connections between the school, church and families.
The lessons children carry beyond the classroom often become the values that guide how they serve their families and communities. Photo: St. Joseph Parish School
A Small School With a Far-Reaching Impact
St. Joseph serves approximately 222 students from preschool through eighth grade. Its small size allows teachers to know students personally and build close relationships with families.
Yet its influence extends far beyond today's enrollment. Thousands of graduates have carried the school's lessons into their families, careers and communities.
Junior high teacher Maggie Sabater, who has spent 13 years at St. Joseph, values those relationships.
"One of our greatest blessings is that we truly know one another," Sabater said. "Because we are a smaller school, students are not simply a number."
Sabater also sees how Catholic education shapes entire families.
"Parents are the first educators of their children, and the school and parish are blessed to partner with them," she said.
That partnership matters in Waipahu, where some parents work multiple jobs to afford tuition while managing Hawaiʻi's rising living costs.
Despite changing technology, family pressures and student needs, the school's mission remains constant.
"At St. Joseph, we continue to believe that education is more than academics. We are forming the mind, heart, character, and faith of each child," Sabater said.
St. Joseph Parish School has been part of Waipahu's history, shaping generations of students through education, faith and service while continuing to strengthen its connection to the community. Photo: St. Joseph Parish School
Teaching Children to Make a Difference
St. Joseph's R.E.A.L. learning expectations encourage students to become Responsible Citizens, Effective Communicators, Active Christians and Lifelong Learners.
Teachers develop critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills while emphasizing empathy, respect and responsibility. Students also participate in athletics, robotics and LEGO League competitions. Older students mentor younger classmates.
"Academic excellence, for me, is not simply about grades; it is about helping students become lifelong learners who use their God-given gifts for a greater purpose," Sabater said.
Community service remains central to school life. Every student completes service hours each quarter, and families join neighborhood cleanups, food drives and charitable projects.
Students have helped beautify Asing Community Park, ʻEwa Stream, Kapapapuhi Point Park and ʻEwa Beach Community Park. They have also collected supplies for Maui wildfire victims, prepared care packages for veterans and supported the parish food pantry.
In March 2024, Councilmember Augie Tulba honored St. Joseph with the District 9 Community Star Award for its contributions to Waipahu and ʻEwa.
This November, students and families are preparing a Thanksgiving fellowship for fishermen at Pier 36, including a meal and personal care packages.
These projects reflect the school's four pillars of stewardship: hospitality, prayer, formation and service.
Friendships and shared traditions have made St. Joseph more than a school. It has become part of Waipahu's story. Photo: St. Joseph Parish School
Rooted in Waipahu's History
St. Joseph opened shortly after World War II, when plantation families helped build Waipahu through hard work, sacrifice and commitment to education.
"To be part of Waipahu means honoring this history, embracing cultural diversity, and recognizing the contributions of the many families who make our community so special," Sandobal said.
After 13 years teaching in Waipahu, Sabater sees the school's influence beyond its campus.
"St. Joseph Parish School is much more than a school—it is a place where faith, tradition, family, and community come together," she said.
That connection reflects a belief that guides daily life at St. Joseph: "Stewardship is a Way of Life."
Father Eric Castro emphasizes that stewardship is more than a program or occasional charity. It is part of the school's identity.
"In our classrooms, on the playground, and around the altar, our students are learning to recognize their unique, God-given talents," Father Castro said.
Families put those gifts into action through prayer, kindness, school and Sunday Masses, and outreach to those in need. These acts build a culture of gratitude and service that extends throughout Waipahu.
Looking Toward the Next 80 Years
As St. Joseph marks its 80th anniversary, Sandobal hopes to expand support for children with different learning needs and strengthen partnerships with families and alumni.
"Ultimately, my vision is for St. Joseph Parish School to remain a place where every child is known, loved, valued, and encouraged to become the person God calls them to be," Sandobal said.
Eighty years after opening its doors, St. Joseph continues to shape Waipahu's future, one child and one family at a time.
St. Joseph Parish School is located at 94-651 Farrington Highway in Waipahu. For enrollment information, visit www.stjosephwaipahu.org or call (808) 677-4475.
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