I. THE HISTORY OF SAINT MARY SCHOOL
The story of St. Mary School begins in 1890 with the establishment of Saint Rose Academy. Five courageous young women, who then became the nucleus of the Dominican Sisters of Edmonds, traveled to Aberdeen and founded a school for the Catholic children of the area. It was these sisters who, thirty-six years later, became the educational and spiritual leaders of the first parochial school in Grays Harbor. Reverend Michael O’Donnell realized there was a need to build a larger parochial facility to replace Saint Rose Academy. He commissioned architect C. Frank Mahon to design the school, which would cost $65,000.
The official opening of St. Mary School was in March of 1926. The Progress noted at the time, “St. Mary’s School is a concrete, fireproof building, with eight classrooms, as well as offices, closets, playrooms, etc. It is modern to the nth degree and Pastor and people are indeed proud that they have added another fine unit to the chain of parish schools of the diocese.”
In 1961, Fr. Kelly undertook a major renovation of the school building. St. Mary School survived the economic turbulence of the 1970's and 80's and emerged as a cherished and valued school system. With the clustering of the parishes in 1995, the school became a Regional school, supported by the six parishes of Western Grays Harbor
Presently, Saint Mary School is growing and expanding. In 1996 the programs were expanded to include a preschool program for four year old students, and the following year a program for three year old students was developed. Later, Kindergarten became full time. Efforts to make the school financially sound include a endowment fund, an ongoing scholarship program and an annual outreach to alumni called Friends of Saint Mary.
The past has strengthened St. Mary School and today it is a vital part of the ministries of the Catholic parishes of Western Grays Harbor.
