Academics
Approach
Combining the best of classical education methods with modern teaching techniques, St. Mary’s provides a rigorous academic program for students Pre K - 8. With a student/teacher ratio of 11:1, our experienced, dedicated faculty blend experiential learning methods, leadership programs, and a structured routine so that students learn the subjects at hand and the context of the information. As a result, our 8th grade MAP testing scores had an average increase of 13%, and our students have exceptional high school acceptances, including matriculation at Bishop Fenwick.

Extended Classroom Learning Opportunities
- Arts and Science Fairs
- Field Trips to enhance Classroom Learning
- Engineering Design Challenges
- Google’s G Suite for Education
- Green Screen & Studio
- Library
- Makerspaces
- Middle School Newspaper
- National Junior Honor Society
- Retreat for 7th & 8th grade
- Robotics K-8
- Smart Boards and Chromebooks
- Technology Lab
- Tutoring provided by Fenwick students
Results
MAP Test Score
Average 8th grade math test score
MAP Test Score
Average 8th grade language test score
MAP Test Score
Average 8th grade reading test score
Click to learn more about the programs offered at St. Mary’s School.
Early Childhood Education
Primary Education
Elementary Education
Middle School Education
Testimonials
“The biggest factor for my wife and I in choosing St. Mary’s Danvers was that we believe very deeply in faith-based education. Being Roman Catholic, and having attended Catholic Schools K-12 I know the values taught along with superior education of a private school. We think that the environment is such that it provides the best opportunity for our child to succeed and prosper, and that this environment can only really be achieved in a private school such as SMA!”
Brendan & Susan Hourihan, current parents
“The main reason I decided on St. Mary’s was its reputation. I have heard nothing but good things from everyone I spoke to about the school. When the students got to high school they were ahead of their peers. I appreciate that religion is a classroom subject but I am also concerned about strong academics. It is so competitive today and a college degree isn’t enough anymore. I wanted to be sure that my child got off to the right start.”
Holly Riordan, current parent
“My education at St. Mary’s was invaluable. I was offered not only exceptional academics, but also a solid foundation of Christian values, both of which set me up to excel in high school where I quickly surpassed my peers, especially in writing. St. Mary’s offers a much more rigorous academic environment and fostered a work ethic that is unparalleled in publics grammar schools. As a Catholic School, teachers are also given the latitude to teach good behavior and morals. That unique experience set me up to make responsible decisions as a young adult.”
Riley Woods, alumna
Our daughter graduated from St. Mary’s and went on to The Governors Academy for high school. Without a doubt St. Mary’s offered her the opportunity to make her mark, expand her academic experience, and join an amazing faith-based community and fun extracurricular activities. ]The teachers challenged her but also provided an environment for her to ask questions. She really felt she was a part of something special and could make a difference. She was also given the opportunity to be a leader.
Lona Therrien, former parent
We have been very happy with the education our son is receiving at St. Mary’s. He entered SMA this year in 6th grade from our local public school and St. Mary’s has helped him make a happy, healthy transition academically and socially. We feel confident that he is getting the solid foundation for high school and then college. In such a short time we see his speaking and writing skills have improved drastically. Most importantly, we see that our son is challenged every day to work up to his best possible academic potential.
Barretto-D’Silva, alumnus
"Coming from spending 7 years abroad in international schools, and relocating in the North Shore area, we wanted to find a school that met very high standards, both in education and in character building. Everyone at St. Mary’s made my daughter and us feel very welcome from the first moment. With teachers that have years of experience to a truly Catholic loving spirit, St. Mary’s is a great school. We are more than pleased with our choice."
Heba, former parent
"Our three children attended St. Mary’s. Over the nine years, we have experienced the school at every level. The teachers that choose to teach at St. Mary’s are extremely passionate about the children and their profession. They are always available to the parents and extend themselves by holding extra help sessions before or after school.
Additionally, the staff of the school are all dedicated professionals. The commitment of the faculty and staff to the success of their students and the school is contagious. It leads to an increased level of parent involvement. We’ve enjoyed getting to know many of the families that we have been introduced to through the school, we have made friends for life, and we look forward to more new friends as we continue our journey through St. Mary’s."