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March 3, 2026Crowning leadership
When Sarai heard her name announced as homecoming queen, she stood still for a moment, visibly surprised, before classmates surrounded her with congratulations. Moments later, Isaias stood beside her as homecoming king, smiling as students filled the gym with applause.
The Feb. 9 homecoming celebration brought color wars energy, laughter and school spirit, but the crowning of the royalty marked something deeper. Sarai and Isaias were chosen not only for their enthusiasm, but also for the way they represent the Cristo Rey OKC community.
Both students have built reputations for leadership and encouragement by greeting classmates in the hallways, supporting school events and setting an example in and out of the classroom. Their recognition reflected the values Cristo Rey OKC seeks to cultivate, such as character, commitment and care for others.
Serving with joy
In the front office, junior Mariana Carrera quietly makes a difference long before most students notice.
She was named February’s Student Worker of the Month. Carrera serves as one of the first faces visitors see when they enter Cristo Rey OKC. Whether organizing paperwork, answering questions or assisting administrators, she approaches each task, whether it’s big or small, with what staff members describe as a cheerful “yes, miss” and an infectious smile.
Her role may not come with a stage or spotlight, but it carries impact.
Carrera’s recognition highlights the dignity of everyday service. In a school built on the value of meaningful work, her steady presence reminds the community that leadership often looks like reliability, kindness, and consistency.
Honoring history through art
Students gathered Oct. 11 to hear from an Oklahoma-based artist, Leondre Lattimore, a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree whose work blends history and culture through powerful imagery.
During the Black History Month assembly, Lattimore challenged students to think critically about the stories they see and the ones they do not. Through vivid visuals and personal reflection, he demonstrated how art can honor the impact of Black African Americans, past and present, while also inspiring future generations.
Students listened intently as he described using creativity not simply for recognition, but for purpose. His message seemed to resonate with a student body preparing to enter professional spaces where identity, voice and integrity matter.
The assembly did more than commemorate history. It encouraged students at Cristo Rey OKC to see themselves as contributors to history.
Holy Hour for Peace, Justice
Following Archbishop Coakley’s invitation to pray for peace, the Cristo Rey OKC community gathered in the gym for a Holy Hour for Peace and Justice. In a world often marked by division and unrest, students and staff stepped away from their routines to enter a space of reverence.
Through Eucharistic adoration, worship music, guided prayer and silence, intentions were lifted for reconciliation where there is division, justice where rights are violated, and comfort for those overwhelmed by fear or loss.
Bibles, rosaries, and journals rested in students’ hands as the gym, typically filled with movement and noise, became a place of reflection.
The gathering served as a powerful reminder that faith remains central to the mission of Cristo Rey OKC. Academic excellence and professional preparation stand alongside spiritual formation, shaping graduates who understand that their prayers, actions and choices carry weight.
Together, these moments, whether they were joyful, creative or contemplative, reflected a school community committed to forming leaders of character. For the families and alumni who continue to support Cristo Rey OKC, they offer reassurance that the mission remains alive in the students who walk in their halls each day.
Photo: Cristo Rey OKC Catholic High School Homecoming Queen and King, Sarai and Isaiah. Photo provided.