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September 5, 2023By Mary Lim
Minh Solorzano has accepted the position of principal for San Xavier Mission School, effective June 28, 2023. “I am most excited about getting to know the community at San Xavier Mission,” said Solorzano. “I welcome the opportunity to learn about the culture and gifts that the families and community members bring to San Xavier Mission.”
The school is undergoing renovations this year and is scheduled to open for Kindergarten through 2nd grade in Fall of 2024. In the meantime, as the Principal, Solorzano will be leading renovations, planning academic programs, engaging with the local community, and building a growing list of support – both locally and nationally.
The new principal at the Mission is no stranger to the unique blended culture of Southern Arizona, the Tohono O'odham Nation, and the Pascua Yaqui Nation. Prior to accepting the position of principal at San Xavier, Solorzano worked for nine years as the principal of St. John the Evangelist Catholic School in Tucson.
Solorzano says her favorite part about Catholic education is “being able to pray and grow in faith with people who are devoted to God.”
“I am blessed to have the opportunity to share my faith in the Lord with the parish and school community at Mission San Xavier del Bac,” says Solorzano, “I look forward to building lasting relationships with families, staff, and community members.”
The Mission suspended school operations in August of 2022, citing decreased enrollment and lack of critical staff. Though there will not be students filling the classrooms this year, Solorzano will be working diligently to ensure that when the school does open its doors again, students and staff will be welcomed by a “new San Xavier Mission School.”
“The children deserve nothing less!” says Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Tucson, Sheri Dahl, of the exciting renovations that have occurred and are in the works to make the school the most ideal space for this community to learn in.
To aid in leading this undertaking, Solorzano says faith will be her greatest instrument. “Living in action of faith is extremely important to me in my personal and professional life,” she explains, “As a school leader, I hope to motivate and inspire people who I encounter through compassion, patience and love.”
Her prayer for Catholic students and their families, both now as she is building connections in the local community and next year as enrollment opens again, is that they “experience the safety, faith, and joy of the traditions of the Tohono O’odham culture.”
When she is not working, Solorzano enjoys spending time with her family and visiting landmarks and local eateries. She also loves creating and performing music, saying that it brings joy to others.
Please keep Solorzano and San Xavier del Bac Catholic School in your prayers as it begins a new chapter in the community.
Construction at the school is ongoing, next week the New Outlook will feature a more detailed look at operations including how you can be a part of the historic renovations.
“In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?” John 14:3