ST. MARY'S SCHOOL

Nearly 44 years ago, a small group of Catholics in Passaic County wanted to build a school that would meet the needs of their growing suburban community. Today, that school has not only survived, it has thrived as one of the most respected educational institutions in the region.

The story of St. Mary's School, Pompton Avenue, Pompton Lakes, began when Rev. Donatus Walsh purchased the Ball house on Pompton Avenue and some adjacent property on Lenox Avenue. Once the property was purchased, the old buildings were torn down and work began on a new school. A school bus was also purchased to help transport children to and from the facility.

The Sisters of St. Francis of Allegany in New York accepted the invitation to teach in the new school. On August 31, 1951, nine Sisters arrived, with Mother Martin Marie as the first principal and superior. The Most Reverend Bishop Bolan blessed the convent and said the first Mass there on September 5,1951. St. Mary's School opened a short time later, with the Mass of the Holy Ghost held on September 10, 1951. Because of the development of the Lakeland area after the Second World War, the school was soon too small and in February 1953, work began on an additional eight classrooms. The addition was completed and blessed on November 29, 1953, and three of the classrooms were put into immediate use.

Today, St. Mary's School has an enrollment of 245 pre-school through eighth grade students. St. Mary's enrollment has remained consistent throughout the years.

A Middle-States-Accredited School, St. Mary's challenges its students to demonstrate critical thinking and develop their skills beyond basics. The Principal, Ms. Kathleen Berlino, keeps abreast of trends and is constantly improving and developing programs at St. Mary's. The fully certified teaching staff attend various workshops throughout the year. In addition to the core curriculum, the students rotate through the science lab, music class, library, gym, foreign language, art class, and a brand new computer lab, with state-of-the-art equipment. Extra-curricular programs include a school orchestra and sports activities.

Academic growth is monitored annually through nationally recognized standardized testing. A large percentage of the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students qualify each year for The Johns Hopkins University Math and Verbal Talent Search for the Academically Gifted Student, and the Gifted and Talented Program at Montclair State University.

Founded on traditional Christian principles, St. Mary's School students are taught to prepare their own liturgies, demonstrate academic prowess, serve beyond themselves, participate in student government, and exhibit responsibility, family involvement and a true sense of community involvement.

St. Mary's School is located at 25 Pompton Avenue, Pompton Lakes. The Office Phone Number is (201) 835-2010.