Marian Middle School celebrates 25 years

Marian Middle School in St. Louis celebrated 25 years of “Educating Girls for Life” with a joyous gathering at Marian Magic on Sunday, April 27. Marian families, students, alumnae, faculty, staff and supporters from throughout the St. Louis community attended. The event featured talks by a current 8th grade student, an alum who attends Rosati-Kain High School and an alum who will be graduating from Maryville University this spring. Marian’s president, Mary Elizabeth Grimes; principal, Sierhah Price; graduate support director, Tamara Harris; counselor, Veronica Edwards, and two teachers shared reflections on why they are committed to Marian’s mission.

Seven communities of religious women, along with several lay women, founded Marian Middle School. Loretto’s own Nancy Wittwer was the catalyst. When she read about the opening of a middle school for boys from low-income families, she asked, “What about the girls?” She then invited sisters from other communities in the St. Louis area to join in exploring the possibility of starting a middle school for girls.

Marian opened its doors in 2000 and has since educated more than 350 girls. Marian offers a challenging academic program, student and family emotional and social support, opportunities for students to grow through a variety of co-curricular activities and a graduate support program that continues to assist students through high school, college and into their careers.

A Catholic school that welcomes adolescentgirls of all backgrounds, Marian is committed to breaking the cycle of poverty by providing a life-altering education. Marian creates an environment of resilience and purpose, helping girls to transform their challenges into opportunities for growth. As the school’s vision statement affirms, “Marian Middle School graduates are accomplished young women equipped to make informed decisions and create enduring, positive change.”

But don’t just take my word for it. Here’s what Marian alum, Madison, says, “Marian has been instrumental in shaping my educational journey for over a decade. From middle school to college, Marian’s impact on my character and education has been profound.” Now a college graduate, Madison is working in Marian’s development office, helping to “spread the good word” about Marian.

At Marian Magic, the Marian “foundresses” were recognized with an award of excellence. Speaking on behalf of the founding religious communities and lay women, I thanked the families, faculty and staff, students and alums and community supporters who have “[made] the dream we had for Marian girls of all backgrounds, Marian is committed to breaking the cycle of poverty by providing a life-altering education. Marian creates an environment of resilience and purpose, helping girls to transform their challenges into opportunities for growth. As the school’s vision statement affirms, “Marian Middle School graduates are accomplished young women equipped to make informed decisions and create enduring, positive change.” But don’t just take my word for it. Here’s what Marian alum, Madison, says, “Marian has been instrumental in shaping my educational journey for over a decade. From middle school to college, Mara reality, one that has exceeded our wildest imaginings.” Kathy Sullivan and Jen Staed also represented Loretto at Marian Magic.

Thanks to the Loretto Community and many Community members who have supported Marian throughout the past 25 years. If you’d like to know more about the school, check out the web page here.