Running for the love of Catholic Schools on Feb. 14

Herald file photoHOUSTON — The countdown is on for the annual Steps for Students 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, Feb. 14. 2026, a day typically reserved for romantic love.

This year, Catholic schools have joined the ranks of races around the city, spinning St. Valentine’s Day about love that supports Catholic education.

With runs around the city incorporating cupid and chocolate-related themes into their event, Catholic Schools joined in the fun, updating the official logo to include red hearts, arrows and balloons for the race, letting participants know not only serves a good cause but also will partake in the festive nature of the day. 

The annual race benefits Catholics schools through infrastructure updates, academic enrichment programs, technology, tuition assistance and other needs. 

“This gathering is my favorite community builder, and I look forward to seeing everyone on Feb. 14 as we celebrate our shared mission of forming disciples of Christ educated in faith and intellect,” said Mazie McCoy, Ed.D., superintendent of Catholic Schools. “There is nothing more inspiring than seeing our school families, pastors, administrators and teachers come together in support of the over 18,000 students we serve in our Catholic schools across the Archdiocese.” 

At three months away, Catholic schools invite participants to register now and lock in their commitment to ensure local Catholic schools meet their unique needs for the upcoming year.

More than 55 schools participate in the annual event, which is approaching its 21st year of bringing significant help, excitement and unity to the culture of Catholic schools within the Archdiocese. Last year’s race raised over $900,000, with more than 10,000 people registered for the event, making it one of the most successful races in its history.

Individuals can participate in the 5K in a variety of ways, such as, of course, running the race in downtown Houston on Valentine’s Day or becoming a school fundraising champion or a parish ambassador. Supporters can also volunteer or join the festivities in the Catholic School Village located in the Archbishop Joseph A. Fiorenza Plaza on St. Joseph Pkwy., across the street from the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. Another option is hitting “Snooze for Students” and registering online.

The day begins with the Sunrise Mass at the Co-Cathedral at 7 a.m. before the race, and there will be plenty of time after Mass ends for participants to line up for the race. The starting line and stage are located by the Downtown Chancery at 1700 San Jacinto, with the race course charging through downtown Houston.

Bishops are often seen supporting race participants, which includes priests, religious sisters, principals, teachers, parents, students and their families, ranging from babies in strollers to grandparents, aunts and uncles. The energy is amplified with mascots, cheerleaders from the schools and Houston pro sports teams, and fans from the sidelines cheering on loved ones walking or running in the race. 

“For small schools like St. Jerome, [Steps for Students] brings new resources and improvements we couldn’t achieve otherwise,” said Veronica Gonzalez, Spanish teacher, development coordinator and  Steps for Students captain at St. Jerome Catholic School in Houston. “We look forward to a successful 2026 race that strengthens our community bonds and plants the seed for many more projects to enhance our school and help families who wish to provide their children with a Catholic education.”

The 2026 overall donation goal has been set at $500,000. With $96,000 being met, Catholic schools are diligently working to exceed their goals and support Catholic education in the Archdiocese.

The registration fee to run the race starts at $17 and increases after Jan. 31. To register or sponsor, visit www.steps4students.org.