PUBLISHED ON August 28, 2025

Archbishop Chapelle High School: A Beacon of Hope After Hurricane Katrina

The 2005-2006 school year at Archbishop Chapelle High School began like any other, with students and faculty gathering for the annual opening liturgy on August 15. But just two weeks later, everything changed when Hurricane Katrina, a devastating Category 5 storm, struck the Gulf Coast. While Jefferson Parish was spared the worst of the storm’s destruction, nearby parishes and schools suffered unimaginable damage.


As the community began to rebuild, Archbishop Chapelle High School became a place of refuge, support, and hope. Schools reopened on October 3, and Chapelle welcomed not only its own students back but also 475 students from schools across the region whose campuses were severely impacted.


Welcoming a New Community

Students from over a dozen schools joined the Chapelle family, including:


  • Academy of the Sacred Heart – 4 students
  • Brother Martin High School – 30 students
  • St. Mary’s Dominican High School – 50 students
  • Holy Cross School – 8 students
  • Mount Carmel Academy – 200 students
  • Cabrini High School – 150 students
  • And more from Ursuline Academy, Xavier Prep, Chalmette High, St. Mary’s Academy, and others.


Despite the challenges of integrating such a large influx of students from diverse schools, Chapelle embraced the opportunity with open arms. On that first day back, the school held its annual Deus Providebit Liturgy, a beautiful way to welcome the new students and remind everyone of Chapelle’s motto: “God Will Provide.”

A Legacy of Love and Service

The 2005-2006 school year will forever be remembered as one of the most challenging yet transformative years in Chapelle’s history. Chapelle didn’t just reopen its doors; it opened its heart, becoming a beacon of hope for the surrounding community.


As Mary Beth Drez, Chapelle’s Principal at the time, shared:
 "Chapelle was a light in a community that had so much devastation and darkness."

A Time of Healing and Unity

Current faculty member Beth Hook '85, who was teaching at Chapelle during Katrina, reflected:


"The sense of community, the willingness of everybody to chip in and help where they could, and the bond that was formed as we shared our struggles and rebuilding stories is something I’ll never forget. All of us took on extra students into our existing classes, as well as additional classes filled with uniforms from so many different schools. It was a time of healing, survival, patience, sharing, and making so much joy out of a really, really hard time."


Beth also recalled lighthearted moments, like the "blue tarp fashion show," and emotional ones, like the final pep rally skit that honored the unique experiences of the year.

Lisa Reames '94, a current faculty member who also taught here during Katrina shared her belief in Chapelle’s lasting legacy:


"I believe Chapelle’s impact on the community during that time was far greater than we will ever fully know. For so many families, we became part of their Katrina story, and I think that is such a beautiful legacy to hold. When hundreds of students suddenly found themselves without a school, Chapelle opened its doors and welcomed them in -- not just as guests, but as our own."


She continued:

 "We were able to provide something that was desperately needed in the middle of so much uncertainty: stability, community, and love. While their lives at home were often filled with chaos and loss, Chapelle offered a sense of normalcy and belonging. I feel blessed that our school could be that constant, even for a short period of time, and that students from all over the area could experience what it means to be part of the Chapelle family."

Strength Through Faith

For Julie Medina '06, a current Chapelle Faculty Member, but a Senior during the Katrina Year, the year was one of resilience, growth, and kindness:


"When Chapelle welcomed students from New Orleans whose schools weren’t an option, it was amazing to see everyone come together. They joined our classes, caught up on work, and took part in all activities. Looking back, Chapelle really made a difference for the community. We made sure the transitional students felt included in everything, like masses, pep rallies, dances, and sports. The teachers and staff were amazing, providing steady support while we were all rebuilding."


Julie noted that despite the challenges, every senior event went on as planned, and the year was marked by new friendships, support, and a deepened sense of faith:


 "Through it all, the faculty and staff helped us trust in God and live by our school motto, reminding us that He was always guiding and supporting us, even in the hardest times."

Kati Boudreau Kelley '06, a current Staff Member and Chapelle Class of 2006 member, reminisced back on this not-so-ordinary start to her last year as a student:


"When we all returned home to Chapelle, it was one of the best reunions I have ever experienced...Chapelle took in hundreds of students! Some of the classes had over 90 students in them!!!! We had students in desks, chairs and all over the floor. Our community needed help and Chapelle didn't think twice about opening our doors!  Katrina showed the true community of Chapelle. We came together to help our own students and anyone else in need. It showed me that I should always open my heart and life to anyone in need."

Students, faculty, and alumnae who lived through that year carry with them memories of resilience, generosity, and the unshakable bond of the Chapelle family. It was a time when the school truly lived its mission, proving that even in the face of hardship, Deus Providebit—God will provide.


Thank you to everyone who made that year a testament to the strength and spirit of Chapelle! 

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