Our History
Transfiguration School was built in 1937 by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles under the pastoral leadership of the late Msgr. James F. Buckley. The original structure consisted of five classrooms and a library. Due to growing demand and the need to accommodate double grades, the school was expanded to include two buildings with 16 classrooms and a health room.
The first five classrooms opened on September 13, 1937, with an enrollment of 150 students. By 1953, the school reached its peak enrollment of 759 students. During the 1960s, enrollment began to decline, and in response to the archdiocese's recommendations, the number of classrooms was gradually reduced to nine. A kindergarten class was added, resulting in a stable enrollment of approximately 350 students. In 1996, a preschool program for three- and four-year-olds was introduced, further enhancing the school's offerings.
The Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet provided leadership and teaching staff for 56 years, with Sister Carmela Lucas serving as the school's first principal. In 1993, Mr. Oscar Pratt became Transfiguration's first lay principal, serving for 13 years. He was succeeded by Ms. Terry Dicks for one year and Ms. Mechele Yermina, who led the school from 2007 to 2013. Mrs. Evelyn Rickenbacker currently serves as principal, continuing the school's long-standing tradition of academic excellence and community service.
The first five classrooms opened on September 13, 1937, with an enrollment of 150 students. By 1953, the school reached its peak enrollment of 759 students. During the 1960s, enrollment began to decline, and in response to the archdiocese's recommendations, the number of classrooms was gradually reduced to nine. A kindergarten class was added, resulting in a stable enrollment of approximately 350 students. In 1996, a preschool program for three- and four-year-olds was introduced, further enhancing the school's offerings.
The Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet provided leadership and teaching staff for 56 years, with Sister Carmela Lucas serving as the school's first principal. In 1993, Mr. Oscar Pratt became Transfiguration's first lay principal, serving for 13 years. He was succeeded by Ms. Terry Dicks for one year and Ms. Mechele Yermina, who led the school from 2007 to 2013. Mrs. Evelyn Rickenbacker currently serves as principal, continuing the school's long-standing tradition of academic excellence and community service.
Our Future
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In the summer of 2024, Transfiguration School underwent a much-needed renovation of its playground and parking lot area, thanks to a generous donation from the Shea Family Foundation.
The playground now features an updated grassy area, providing a safe space where children can play freely without fear of scraped knees or serious injuries. Additionally, a new handball wall was installed next to the playground, adding another fun activity for students to enjoy. The blacktop was also resurfaced, offering a smoother surface for basketball and volleyball games, making playtime safer and more enjoyable for all. |
We are grateful to the Shea Family Foundation for their continued support in helping us create a welcoming and safe environment where our students can learn, play, and grow.
A special thanks to the Del Amo Construction team for their expertise and care for making this project possible.
A special thanks to the Del Amo Construction team for their expertise and care for making this project possible.
