Holy Cross LPS School, Palapoor
About the school
Palappooru, also known as the land of Plumaria and the land of dairy far mers gained prominence through the efforts of the Missionaries of 0. C. D The area, situated beneath the Jumazhi Mala near Elarimala, witnessed the establishmet of the first Christian community, a significant result of the extensive evangelization carried out by Father Gerald O.C.D during 1920-24. The region, known for its picturesque landscapes with hills and valleys,was home to local residents who practiced agriculture and animal husbandry, contributing to dairy production.
The pioneering Christian community formed by Father Gerald O.C.D laid the foundation for the Christian presence in Palapooru. The missionary activities, spearheaded by Father Gerald O.C.D brought about a major transformation in the region,attracting local residents and establishing a Christian society. Rev. Fr. Gerald O.C.D played a crucial role in this transformation.One notable figure from Palapoor was Ummai Nadar, a devout Christian who garnered immense respect from the local populace. His son, Ottakka yitamoottil Paul Padmanabhan Narayanan Nadar's son Ananthapadman abhan, popularly known as Satyaneshan, actively participated in the construction of a church and supported the missionary activities led by Rev. Fr. Gerald O.C.D On December 16, 1923, Father Xavier O.C.D organized a social bath (Baptism) in Alappooru,marking a significant event during that era.
In 1924, the village of Palapooru decided to construct a church and a school, facing significant challenges in the non accessible area. Materials like stones for construction were brought through river via boat. Collaborating with missionaries and local residents, they actively worked towards educating children regardless of caste or religion.The Holy Cross shrine was built in 1924, followed by the school in 1925. This educational institution,initially named Kalluvilathery LP School, later known as Holy Cross LP School. Despite the lack of literacy in the region, the school aimed to bring enlightenment. It began as pallikkudam and initially accommodating up to the fifth grades. The school later limited to fourth standard in the year 1980.
After India's independence in 1947, the school adapted to the changing times and evolved into an aided school. Over the decades, students from Palapooru and nearby areas like Poonkulam,Karshika College, Pachalloor, Thiruvallam etc excelled in various fields, contributing to society as doctors, engineers, professors, and more.In the 1960s and 1970s, the school played a crucial role in providing quality primary education.Post-1980, it further elevated its standards, making i t a b e a c o n f o r h i g h e r e d u c a t i o n . T h i s transformation helped students secure jobs in diverse sectors, such as lecturers, doctors,engineers, and professors. Over the years, the school's success has continued, symbolizing the triumph of knowledge in Palappooru.
