ABOUT US: SHAPING THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction."
—PROVERBS 1:7
A New Model for Catholic Education
At Pax Christi Academies, we are reimagining the Catholic School approach to education. By working in partnership with church leaders, Pax Christi is steered by a dedicated team of visionary leaders whose sole focus is on education, where every child is provided the opportunity to encounter Christ, flourish, prosper and achieve academic excellence.
This shift in governance allows the church clergy to focus on continuing to strengthen the faith of our parish communities knowing they are supported by a team of leaders and board members who are committed to educating our children with the highest level of Catholic faith-based academics.
At Pax Christi, student learning is fostered through a rigorous curriculum based on the guiding principles of: Faith, Intellect, Character and Citizenship.
We are committed to equip our students to become compassionate and innovative trailblazers of the future by providing limitless educational and expansive growth opportunities, guided by skilled and dedicated educators in a nurturing and faith-filled environment.
A Revitalization of Catholic Education is Underway
Established on July 1, 2024, by The Most Reverend Kevin Vann, J.C.D., D.D., D.Min., Bishop of Orange, and a visionary Board of Directors, Pax Christi Academies formed a network of five Catholic schools in Orange County, including St. Anne School in Santa Ana, St. Barbara School in Santa Ana, St. Joseph School in Santa Ana, St. Justin Martyr School in Anaheim and La Purisima School in Orange.
Pax Christi Academies
Mission & Vision
MISSION STATEMENT
To form children in the fullness of faith, intellect, character, and citizenship, who see God’s active presence in their lives and respond to the call to be like Jesus.
To create Christ-centered, parish-based schools that are driven by excellence and are accessible to all families seeking the ministry of Catholic education in view of the salvation of souls.
VISION STATEMENT
Inspired by the Holy Spirit and guided by Our Lady of Guadalupe, Pax Christi Academies will become the national model of Catholic K-8 schools in the areas of faith and moral formation, academic education, and enrollment growth and financial sustainability.
“It’s time for a new vision for Catholic school governance, which requires direct accountability, financial and technological sophistication and an investment in more innovative ways to educate and form children in Christ.”
STEVE CAMERON
CHAIRMAN, PAX CHRISTI ACADEMIES
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Meet Our Team
Our team of skilled educators, visionary leaders, and committed staff work tirelessly to inspire students and strengthen our mission. Guided by faith and a passion for excellence, we’re dedicated to shaping compassionate, innovative trailblazers of tomorrow. Together, we strive to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive in a nurturing, Christ-centered environment.
DR. CHRISTINA ARELLANO, Ed.D
PRESIDENT
Christina Arellano, Ed.D., is a dedicated educator with over 25 years of experience in Catholic education and leadership. She has held roles such as principal, assistant superintendent, and founding President of Pax Christi Academies.
Originally from New Delhi, India, Dr. Arellano holds degrees in Economics, an MBA, and advanced degrees in educational leadership, including a doctorate from Loyola Marymount University. Her work focuses on creating inclusive, sustainable models for Catholic schools, emphasizing support for students with exceptional needs.
A leader driven by faith and innovation, Dr. Arellano is committed to transforming schools and ensuring access to quality education in underserved communities.
CLAUDIA GARCIA
HEAD OF CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP
With over 20 years of experience in education, Ms.Garcia's career began as a general education teacher in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and later in the Clark County School District in Las Vegas, where she taught for a decade. She then served as a Gifted and Talented Education Specialist for five years within the same district.
Returning to California, Ms.Garcia became Principal at Holy Spirit STEM Academy in Mid-City Los Angeles, where she played a key role in establishing the school as one of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles' pioneering STEM institutions. She then transitioned to the position of STEM Specialist for the Department of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Ms.Garcia’s extensive experience fuels her passion for empowering both students and educators with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
PAX CHRISTI BOARD MEMBERS
Dr. Erin C.O. Barisano
Timothy R. Busch
Steve Cameron, Chair
Anthony Dufault
Rev. William B. Goldin
John Heffernan
Gwen Hennessey
Matthew J. Heslin, Vice Chair
Cristy Johnson
Roger T. Kirwan
Kory J. Kramer
Bernarda "Berni" Neal
Linh Nguyen
Rev. Michael D. Nguyen
Dan O’Melveny
Steve Pellegrini, Treasurer
Janine Poletti
Tim Ristoff
Very Rev. Angelos Sebastian
Jennifer Stephen, Secretary
OUR PARTNERS
