Tampa Catholic High School

RADFORD SCHOOL

"Disco Ut Servem"

Radford's Mission

Welcome to Radford School, where our mission is dedicated to fostering the pursuit of knowledge, skills, and understanding at the highest level. Our objectives are designed to support this mission.

Join us at Radford School as we work tirelessly to actualize our vision of graduating empowered young adults poised to make meaningful contributions to society and excel in all facets of life.

Foster Respect

Our educational environment cultivates a profound respect for oneself, peers, and the broader community, creating a culture of inclusivity and mutual appreciation.


Build Confidence

Through tailored programs and supportive learning environments, we empower students to develop unwavering confidence in their abilities, fostering resilience and self-assurance.

Cultivate Maturity

Radford School is committed to nurturing maturity in our students, equipping them with the emotional intelligence and life skills necessary to navigate diverse challenges with grace and composure.

Promote Productivity

We emphasize the importance of productivity and effective time management, providing students with the tools and strategies to maximize their potential and achieve their goals.

Prepare for University Success

Our comprehensive curriculum is designed to prepare students for the academic rigor of university life, ensuring they possess the intellectual acumen and adaptability to thrive in higher education settings.

Enable Social Success

In addition to academic excellence, Radford School prioritizes the development of strong social skills, teamwork, and leadership qualities essential for success both in university and beyond.

Radford's Vision

Radford School envisions graduating respectful, confident, mature, and productive young adults ready for academic and social triumphs at university and beyond.

Distinctive Qualities

Radford Dining Hall


Experience Radford's unique dining culture: no cafeteria lines. Students share family-style meals on custom dinnerware adorned with our crest. Etiquette classes instill essential manners. Monthly table rotations promote cross-age interaction. Visit Radford for a delightful lunch from our kitchen during your tour. Taste the difference at Radford School.

Serving Experience


Radford's Dining: Upperclassman servers assist in meal service, one per table. Students find this fulfilling; waitlists are common. Experience the tradition of student service enhancing our dining atmosphere. Join us for a unique dining experience where students play an integral role in serving meals from kitchen to table.

May Fete Queens


Explore Radford's rich history through May Fete Queen portraits dating back to 1929. Each year, seniors elect a Queen and lady in waiting, celebrated during the May Fete ceremony. Witness the tradition of lower classmen presenting a choreographed dance as a gift, honoring the school's 109-year legacy.

Extensive Collectibles


Explore Dr. Templin's eclectic collections, including Napoleonic artifacts, Queen Elizabeth memorabilia, and international dolls. These fascinating pieces, gifted to her over time, are displayed throughout the school for students' enjoyment. Immerse yourself in history and culture as you admire these intriguing items at Radford School.

Our History

Key Dates

  • 1910 – El Paso School for Girls was founded
  • 1917 – First building completed, a three-story residence hall with one-story classroom additions
  • 1923 – School moved to its current location
  • 1927 – Dr. Lucinda de Leftwich Templin takes over as Director
  • 1931 – Name changed to Radford School for Girls
  • 1952 – A brief history of Radford School for Girls (ScholarWorks@UTEP) E.L. Hogan 
  • 1969 – Dr. Templin dies
  • 1976 – Radford becomes co-ed and renamed Radford School
  • 1987 – Radford no longer a Boarding School
  • 2010 – Radford turns 100

Our Traditions

  • Convocation
  • Flag Assembly
  • Family Night
  • Grandparent's Day
  • Fall Festival
  • Spirit Week
  • Radford Day
  • Operetta
  • Yule Log
  • Ladies Tea
  • Senior Dinner
  • May Fete
  • Principal's Breakfast and Honors Convoation
  • Baccalaureate
  • Kindergarten Celebration and Elementary Honors
  • 8th Grade Completion Ceremony
  • Senior Commencement
  • Curriculum Plus

Our Legacy


Radford School, established in 1910 as the El Paso School for Girls, holds the distinction of being the oldest private school in El Paso, Texas. Originally situated along the Rio Grande River in the Sunset Heights area, it served as both a day and boarding school for girls, offering a comprehensive education including manners, decorum, and home economics.


During the tumultuous times of the Mexican Revolution, Radford School provided a safe haven for Mexican families' daughters, contributing to its unique cultural heritage. The school's relocation near Fort Bliss in 1931, due to its proximity to the conflict, marked a significant chapter in its history.


In 1931, the school was renamed the Radford School for Girls in honor of benefactors George A. and Julia Brown

Radford. Dr. Lucinda de Leftwich Templin, a pivotal figure in the school's history, led Radford until her retirement in 1967, leaving behind a legacy of academic excellence and cultural enrichment.


Dr. Templin's extensive collections, including artifacts related to Napoleon Bonaparte and Abraham Lincoln, reflect her diverse interests and enrich the school's environment to this day. In 1976, Radford transitioned to a co-educational institution, embracing a new era of inclusivity and diversity.


Today, Radford School stands as a beacon of educational excellence and cultural heritage, shaping future leaders in the El Paso - Juarez community. With a century of history behind it, Radford remains committed to providing a transformative education experience for its diverse student body.

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