Over a Century of Catholic Education
St. Mary's first opened its doors in 1903. Approximately 100 young students began their educational careers. Now, over 100 years later, St. Mary's remains true to its original mission:
Teaching the Catholic faith and values from kindergarten through eighth grade.
Today, our student population is approximately 200 students. Together with the Pastor, administration, teachers, parents, and the Commission on Education, we work together to ensure our children receive the finest possible education. We offer a progressive program that emphasizes religion, academic excellence, fine arts, and physical fitness.
St. Mary's TPO, which all SMS parents are members of, is very active in our school. They have fundraisers to help offset cost of books, field trips, assemblies, and classroom materials.
Our Booster Club helps to raise funds to support ALL extracurricular activities through concession stands and fundraisers.
Academic Benefits
St. Mary's rich traditions closely mirror the traditions and teachings of the Church. We offer superior educational opportunities to all students. Some benefits include:
- Core classes from K-8 plus art, computers, P.E. and music
- A student teacher ratio of 1:23
- Experienced, state-certified faculty
- Strong parental involvement and parish support
- Regular participation in the Mass and Sacraments
- Full State of Illinois private school recognition
- Special needs provided through a close working relationship with neighboring public schools
- 31% of IL State Scholars at P.T.H.S. are St. Mary's graduates for 2009-2010
- 2008-2009 Valedictorian and Salutatorian for P.T.H.S. were both SMS graduates
- On the IOWA Basic Skills tests, our scores are consistently above the national average
- St. Mary's offers many after school academic opportunites including Scholastic Bowl, Math Team, Student Council, and Speech Team.
Extracurricular Activities
Athletically, St. Mary's has excelled in recent years and now has a new state of the art facility. The following sports are offered: Baseball, Softball, Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, Cheerleading, and Volleyball. We co-op with Pontiac Jr. High for Cross Country and Track.