St. Mary's Catholic School was founded in 1897 under the name of St. Mary's Academy by Father Heckmann, pastor of St. Mary's Church. Under his direction, with the active support of a dedicated group of parishioners, Divine Providence Sisters guided the pupils for several years. The Divine Providence Sisters withdrew in 1912 and not until 1919 could teaching sisters be found to continue their good work. Sisters of the Congregation of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament from Houston, Texas, began their mission at St. Mary's School in 1919 and had a presence in the school until the retirement in May 1995 of long-time librarian, Sister James Philip Davison. In 1974, Mrs. Loris Edwards became the first lay principal.
Today, the school is staffed by lay teachers who, together with the clergy, parents, and students, work for its uninterrupted growth, and success to the greater honor and glory of God.
Mission Statement
The mission of St. Mary's Catholic School is the commitment to spiritual development and academic excellence of our students toward a life of prayer, service, and love.
Vision Statement
Guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ and the principles of the Catholic faith, St. Mary’s Catholic School partners with parents to form faithful disciples of Jesus Christ, committed to lifelong learning, compassionate service, and moral leadership, shining as lights for Christ in the world.
Philosophy of Education
We believe that each child is loved by God and uniquely created for a sublime purpose – to know, love, and serve Jesus. Education shapes the entire person – body, mind, will – towards this sublime purpose. The purpose of education is the formation of human hearts, minds, and wills for the glory of their Creator. Education occurs in an environment where students are guided to seek truth, to deepen their faith, and to serve others with love and humility.