TCSA is saddened to note the passing of Noreen Brown, a founder of St. Mary’s Academy Charter School in Beeville, Texas. Brown was a talented administrator and charter advocate and dedicated to her students and beloved by her community.

She was a longtime and regular participant in the Texas Charter Schools Association, and we will miss her contributions and positive outlook.

Brown, 77, died early September 26 at her home in George West, Texas.

In 2001, Brown and her colleagues were awarded a charter for St. Mary's Academy Charter School and were able to save the financially struggling parochial school.

Brown served the students and families of St. Mary's for 15 years as Assistant Principal, 6th grade English Language Arts teacher, reading interventionist and parent liaison. The school was her proudest professional accomplishment and was her home away from home.

The school received many awards and accreditation during her tenure including a National Recognition as a Blue Ribbon School in Washington, D.C., in 2009. Noreen will be remembered by her family and friends for her devotion to and love of her family and the development of young children.

A funeral mass will be celebrated 2 p.m. Friday, October 2, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with a reception that will follow in the parish hall.