By Dawn Burkhardt

Saint Mary School was established in 1858 by the pastor of Saint Mary Church, Rev. James Daly, in the parish rectory where a group of 26 pupils gathered around long tables and sat on wooden benches to receive their Catholic education.

Later that year, Father Daly constructed a two-story brick building on Cumberland Street, west of the present edifice, containing a large lower room and an upper room.

On August 26, 1873, four sisters of Saint Dominic under the charge of Sister M. Josepha, Superioress, from Newburgh, New York, opened a convent in Gloucester and started teaching in the school.

In 1893, the current edifice was constructed by the Dominican Sister of Hope.

Saint Mary School continues today as a Catholic elementary school where all are welcomed as family.

\”It is our endeavor to create an atmosphere where students from pre-school through eighth grade, strive to know God through prayer, scripture, and celebration; and they are encouraged to manifest their love of God by service to others.

\”The mission of Saint Mary School is to teach as Jesus did and to live the Good News of Jesus Christ.

\”We are called to build a Christian community, and to share Gospel values. While we are dedicated to academic excellence, we also believe that education embraces all life experiences and includes all aspects of development.

\”This results in an integrated person who strives for peace and justice, while living the Good News and assuming responsible citizenship of our country and the world.\”

CATEGORY: ST. MARYGRAMMAR/PARISH