library was completed in 1973. Steel buildings to house additional elementary classes were erected in 1978 and 1980. Since this time, elementary grades have been housed in individual classrooms. A centrally located science lab, used for large classes, was moved next to the elementary building. In 1995, St. Joseph established a Pre-Kindergarten with another metal unit to house it. Father Tom Jezek followed Monsignor Anderson as pastor. Upon Father Tom's departure, Father Tony Cumella became pastor. After several years, Father Louis Voorhies became pastor of the church and St. Joseph School. In 1985, Brother Andre' Lucia, F.S.E., replaced Sister Agnes Leonard Thevis of the Sisters of Divine Providence as principal of the school. In 2001, Brother Andre' was appointed President of St. Joseph School, when Brother Augustine Brian Kozdroj, F.S.E. replaced Brother Andre' as principal. Brother Paul Casey, F.S.E., continues to teach religion to the elementary grades. The Brothers of the Holy Eucharist have served St. Joseph for more than thirty years. In 1993, The Marianites of Holy Cross sent Sister Joel Sperier to teach English, and religion in the high school department. Joining Sister Joel was Sister Mary David Hecker, who was the elementary religion teacher for the seventh and eighth grade, as well as the elementary librarian. In 1995, Father Stephen Scott Chemino became pastor of Mater Dolorosa Church Parish and St. Joseph. He brought about many of the present day improvements to the school buildings and gymnasium. In 1997, Father John Andries joined Father Chemino, as Associate Pastor, followed by Father Marc Noel in 1998. Father Chemino taught religion to the senior and sophomore classes, while Father Marc instructed the juniors and freshmen. During the centennial year of St. Joseph, 1998, many special activities were held. In 2016, Father Martin Laird became pastor Mater Dolorosa Church Parish and St. Joseph. On October 1, 2016, Mr. Billy Albritton became principal of St. Joseph School. In July 2017 we happily welcomed the Sisters of the Secular Institute of the Two Hearts to teach religion at the elementary and high school levels. In addition to being one of the oldest Catholic Schools in the area, St. Joseph is the only Catholic High School within the civil parish of Avoyelles. Athletics St. Joseph School athletics competes in the LHSAA. References External links Private School Review - St Joseph Elem. High School Catholic secondary schools in Louisiana Schools in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana