Academic Excellence

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Academic excellence is a hallmark of Saint Mary Star of the Sea School. Our dedicated faculty and staff work daily to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and character formation they need to succeed both in school and in life.

For more than 90 years, Saint Mary Star of the Sea School has been known for its commitment to high academic standards and the pursuit of excellence.

Each year, students in grades 6–8 earn eligibility for induction into the National Junior Honor Society, recognizing their scholarship, leadership, service, and character. In addition, many of our eighth-grade students qualify for the Presidential Awards for Educational Excellence and Achievement, earning scores in the 90th percentile or higher on standardized reading and math assessments from grades 6 through 8.

The preschool program includes instruction in a variety of stimulating topics, including the Rowling Foundation Superkids reading series. Kindergarten students are given an early mastery of the academic fundamentals and study skills. Students in the primary grades at Saint Mary’s progressively build a solid foundation of academic skills and a love of learning, preparing them for success in the upper grades. Students in the 4th and 5th grades are exposed to a diverse, well-rounded curriculum that builds upon previously acquired basic skills while developing new ways of learning and thinking. Through the continuing development of study skills and good work habits, they are prepared for the rigorous middle school curriculum.

Accreditation

Saint Mary Star of the Sea School is accredited by the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA)  of Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA). Middle States Association Commission is a worldwide leader in accreditation and school improvement.

Saint Mary Star of the Sea School uses the Diocese of Richmond’s Consensus Curriculum.