Archive for month: May, 2025

The following note was sent from Dr. Joe Reiken via an email from Father Gil on 5/20. To make sure you don’t miss any important updates, sign up for Father Gil’s newsletters here: https://sp-apostle.org/ (scroll to bottom of page and click “Subscribe to Father Gil’s email newsletter”)

Dear St. Paul the Apostle School Community,

I am absolutely delighted to accept the offer to become St. Paul’s next Principal! I am humbled by your trust and confidence in me to lead St. Paul over the next several years.

During my visits to the school over the past month, I was struck by the kindness, warmth, humor and humble hearts of the community. As an avid traveler, I often find humanity at its best in communities where trust and passion align. During my brief visits to St. Paul, I met many faculty, administrators and community members whose pride and optimism for St. Paul was simply contagious and life-giving. I am so excited to get to know each and every student and to develop trusting and honest relationships with the administration, faculty and families.

I have a strong passion for learning. What draws me to education is the profound impact educators have on the life of a young person. In my own experience, I have taught and served hundreds upon hundreds of students, as a math teacher, Principal, and President. The transformation I witness as young people grow in mind, spirit, and relationship with God during their time at school is one of my most rewarding experiences. As educators we thrive on our students growing, learning, and changing so that one day they may lead lives of meaning and impact. With humility and a collaborative spirit, I look forward to working with the school community so that we may usher in the next, exciting era for St. Paul.

As I sunset my time in Orange County and prepare for the move to Los Angeles, I am becoming more contemplative about how I can share my own expertise and knowledge with all of you and fully embody the mission of St. Paul the Apostle School. I look forward to joining this spirited community and leading St. Paul for many years to come.

Joe