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St. Mary Catholic School

927 Marion Ave
Big Rapids, MI 49307
St. Mary`s is known for its welcoming environment where your children will be taught to embrace their Catholic identity and live the Gospel values they are taught.
They will be challenged to discover and share their God-given talents with the world.
St. Mary`s School teaches students to have high expectations and to be responsible, independent, enthusiastic learners who value and respect their learning community.
Children learn that they are empowered and expected to contribute to and maintain the peaceful learning environment of St. Mary`s.
We are truly educating leaders for the new century. Dedicated to the teaching mission of the Church, and rooted in the Mercy tradition of hospitality and concern for those in any kind of need, St. Mary's School, animated by the Spirit of Jesus is committed to the Catholic education of children, Pre-K through Grade 8.
We provide a safe and happy place for students to come for spiritual, academic and personal growth, in a Christ-centered and family-centered environment, starting students on a life-long quest for excellence, justice, peace and service to others.

Quick Facts (2026)

  • Top-Ranked MI School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-8
  • Enrollment: 172 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $3,003
  • Acceptance rate: 99%
  • Average class size: 15 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

St. Mary Catholic School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Michigan for:

Category
Attribute
Affordability
School History

School Overview

School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Mild Learning Differences
Year Founded
1884
School Calendar

Student Body

Total Students
172 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
7%
State avg.: 19%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
11 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
16:1
National avg.:
Average Class Size
15 students
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
See school handbook

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
In parish Tuition rate
% on Financial Aid
53%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$1,500
Acceptance Rate
99%
National avg.: 82%
Admissions Director
Mr. Watters
Application URL

Sports

Total Sports Offered
2 sports

School Notes

  • School Motto: St. Mary School educates students to know, love, and serve God through Catholic spiritual development, academic pursuits, and service to the community.
  • St. Mary`s is known for its welcoming environment where your children will be taught to embrace their Catholic identity and live the Gospel values they are taught. They will be challenged to discover and share their God-given talents with the world. St. Mary`s School teaches students to have high expectations and to be responsible, independent, enthusiastic learners who value and respect their learning community. Children learn that they are empowered and expected to contribute to and maintain the peaceful learning environment of St. Mary`s. We are truly educating leaders for the new century. Dedicated to the teaching mission of the Church, and rooted in the Mercy tradition of hospitality and concern for those in any kind of need, St. Mary's School, animated by the Spirit of Jesus is committed to the Catholic education of children, Pre-K through Grade 8. We provide a safe and happy place for students to come for spiritual, academic and personal growth, in a Christ-centered and family-centered environment, starting students on a life-long quest for excellence, justice, peace and service to others.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does St. Mary Catholic School cost?
St. Mary Catholic School's tuition is approximately $3,003 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of St. Mary Catholic School?
The acceptance rate of St. Mary Catholic School is 99%, which is higher than the national average of 88%.
What sports does St. Mary Catholic School offer?
St. Mary Catholic School offers 2 interscholastic sports: Basketball and Volleyball.
What is St. Mary Catholic School's ranking?
St. Mary Catholic School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Michigan for: Least expensive tuition and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for St. Mary Catholic School?
The application deadline for St. Mary Catholic School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

School Reviews

5  
As parents, we could not be happier with St. Mary School. Our children are given the individual attention by the teachers and staff that challenge them academically while learning in a safe, family-oriented environment where everyone knows each other by name from all grade levels. Older students truly serve as role models for younger students. Faith and ethics are emphasized and charitable works and service are taught as part of the curriculum. I highly recommend St. Mary to any parent who wants their child to learn in an optimal environment surrounded by children whose families truly care about the education and well being of their children.
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Quick Facts (2026)

  • Top-Ranked MI School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-8
  • Enrollment: 172 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $3,003
  • Acceptance rate: 99%
  • Average class size: 15 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Michigan is $9,399 for elementary schools and $13,792 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Michigan is 88% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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