In September 1950, St. Mary’s School first opened its doors with grades one through six, staffed by four Sisters of the Precious Blood. Bishop Charles Francis Buddy dedicated the new school to Mary, Mother of God, on March 16, 1951. Each year a grade was added. In June 1953, thirteen students graduated from the eighth grade.
The original building had eight classrooms and an office complex. The school enrollment grew each year: three classrooms were added in 1960 and three additional ones in 1964. When the enrollment reached 650 students, there were two of each grade one through six, and one each seventh and eighth grade.
In 1972, the Sisters of the Precious Blood relinquished the administration of the school, although their spiritual presence in the Parish and school community strengthens St. Mary’s to this day. For two years, a Sister of the Holy Cross administered the school. Lay administrators have followed her. St. Mary’s School continues to have a very strong religious and academic program with the leadership of a very capable administrator, faculty and staff.
Due to rising costs and declining enrollment, a single class of each grade became necessary. However, times change and in 1987, a kindergarten was added, followed by the addition of a Pre-School in the spring of 2001. With changing trends in enrollment, St. Mary’s was once again “on the grow”! A second First and Second Grade were re-introduced in 2001. For the 2002-2003 school year, a second Third Grade, followed by a second Fourth Grade in 2003-2004. In 2005, with a somewhat fluctuating enrollment, it was decided to put a temporary hold on grade expansions and re-evaluate direction in light of current economic trends. St. Mary’s continues to be, as it is today, a vibrant Roman Catholic School reflecting the spirit and message of Jesus Christ.
A second generation of students is presently enrolled at St. Mary’s. As the school enters its 59th year, administration and faculty anticipate serving a third generation, continuing a tradition of excellence in education, faith formation and community service.