History

Beginning over a century ago, St. Mary's Catholic Church had a humble start in downtown Johnson City. Deeply embedded in the history of Johnson City, St. Mary's Church has contributed to the formation of the community since 1888. In 1911, the Sisters of Mercy from Nashville arrived to open St. Mary's School in the old house at the top of a hill overlooking Johnson City. In 1954, a school building and convent were built on that site. The school has continued to grow and change over the years. Progress can be seen in the addition of new grades and the construction of new facilities. In 1988 the 7th grade was added followed by the addition of the 8th grade in 1989. The most significant move was made in the Fall of 1990 when St. Mary's relocated to Lakeview Drive. A new school, worship center, and rectory were constructed. It is the hope and prayer of the administration that our heritage will enable us to continue to convey the same message of hope and deep faith that has kept St. Mary's Parish alive and growing as a vibrant faith community.

			Overview

St. Mary's is a Catholic school and strives to provide experiences which will foster the students' development spiritually, intellectually, physically, aesthetically, psychologically, emotionally, and socially. St. Mary's School is a living ministry of the parish for students in grades Kindergarten thru 8th grades and accepts students of any race, religion, color, and national or ethnic origin. The school serves as a ministry of the parish of St. Mary's www.stmarsyjc.org for residents of Johnson City and Washington County as well as for parishes in the surrounding Tri-Cities' area of northeast Tennessee. St. Mary's School is a part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Knoxville www.etcatholic.com school system under the leadership of Bishop Joseph Kurtz and Superintendent Dr. Morgan. Our diocese includes schools in Johnson City, Kingsport, Knoxville, Oak Ridge, and Chattanooga with a total of eight elementary schools and two high schools.

			Student Enrollment

St. Mary's is an elementary and middle school with Kindergarten thru 8th grade classes. Our student population reflects a blending of ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. Of the total population, approximately sixteen percent are non-Catholic.

			Accreditation

St. Mary's Catholic School is accredited by the State of Tennessee Department of Education and follows curriculum requirements for Tennessee public schools. Accreditation is given in conjunction with the Diocese of Knoxville and is governed by the policies of the Diocese. In 2000, St. Mary's Catholic School was accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) (www.sacs.org).