St Mary's Ridge School

Since 1856 God has allowed St. Mary's Ridge to provide a Catholic education to our children. A Catholic education was a priority to the first German immigrants, and it remains so today. Please help us continue this fine tradition. Donations, large or small, are welcome and most appreciated. Built one brick at a time - our school can be saved one dollar at the time.

Fr. Hirsch leads the children in prayer during Mass. The altar has been prepared by students serving as "Hand-maids of the Lord". The Chapel is decorated with the children's handiwork. This particular Mass was offered in celebration - but the children also come together in times of sorrow and stress."

But Jesus said, "Let the children come to me. Do not hinder them. The kingdom of God belongs to such as these."

Matthew 19:14

Pre-School and Kindergarten play together, pray together and learn together. Tuition costs are less than day-care, but we are willing to make this financial sacrifice for the benefit of the children. Our flexible all-day, every-day, preschool program offers parents a choice of the number of days their children attend and provides a very positive Christian environment. Our future looks bright and promising.

Grades 1 -3 have some study time in our library. These 'lower' grades are fed by our Pre-School and Kindergarten programs. Once families see the positive learning environment and feel the family atmosphere, the choice to stay at St. Mary's becomes an easy one.

Grades 4 and 5

A bright and cheery setting helps provide a positive learning environment for our children. They start each day with both prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance.

Grades 6 -7, our oldest children, have an intense discussion. Whatever the topic - history, geography, political science - God is always there and a part of the discussion. We are grateful that our junior high program has been allowed to continue. At an age when God can be pushed aside or forgotten, it becomes even more important that we are allowed to minister to these students on a daily basis.

Mrs. Deb Luxton teaches grades 3 - 5 and is also head teacher. The Diocese of LaCrosse honored her with the "Excellence in Teaching Award", which is given to only one teacher, from one school, in the entire diocese each year. Presented by Mrs. Diana Roberts, Acting Director of Catholic Schools, recognition was also given to all of the faculty members, as well as the student body. According to Mrs. Roberts, "It takes an entire school to earn this award." The award was presented on September 27, 2001 at St. Mary's Ridge School.

For Questions and/or donations, please contact Ormand Mack at:
St Mary's Ridge Development Director