OUR MISSION
Old St. Mary’s Catholic School is dedicated to educating the youth of its growing parish by:
† Providing a solid foundation in the Catholic faith, within the context of a challenging academic program that takes advantage of all of the cultural opportunities available in the city around us.
† Complementing the role of the family in nurturing a strong sense of dignity and self-worth in each child.
† Developing an appreciation in every child of their connection to others by fostering a sense of concern and a commitment to service.
† Encouraging habits that build strong minds in healthy bodies and that nurture secure and poised individuals who will be ready to meet the challenges of the present and future.
HISTORY
Although Old St. Mary’s parish is Chicago’s first Catholic congregation and oldest parish in the city, it is now located in one of Chicago’s newest church buildings. The Church was founded in 1833, but is currently in its sixth location. Most Chicagoans know the church from its former site, the corner of Wabash and Van Buren. In 2002 the parish community proudly dedicated their new church, one of architectural beauty and distinction. It soon became clear that there would be a need for a new educational ministry. The many young families who had moved into the neighborhood were looking for a faith-based, quality education for their children. In 2004 Old St. Mary’s School opened its doors to its first preschool class of 18 children. Today Old St. Mary’s School serves 120 students in preschool through third grade. Additional grades are being added each year until the school is a complete elementary school through the eighth grade. Plans are currently underway for the construction of a new Parish Learning Center and School to accommodate the tremendous growth of this vibrant parish community.
† Providing a solid foundation in the Catholic faith, within the context of a challenging academic program that takes advantage of all of the cultural opportunities available in the city around us.