St. Mary's Grade School was established in 1878 as St. Mary's Academy and Boarding School, Bismarck's first school; St. Mary's served as the only Catholic School in Bismarck for nearly 70 years and as such set the standard for Catholic School education.
St. Mary's Grade School is one of five schools within the Light of Christ Catholic School system. Light of Christ Schools began in 2012.
St. Mary's Grade School offers a modern educational program in which students learn mathematics, morality, fine arts, faith and love in small classes taught by caring teachers.
The 275 children at St. Mary's Grade School have opportunities to discover themselves as scholars, leaders, stewards, thinkers and artists.
We also boast top-notch facilities that include a library, an art room, gymnasium and music classroom.
Continuing in this rich tradition, St. Mary's Grade School is committed to the mission of LIght of Christ Schools: Encountering Christ in our Catholic Faith through living, learning and serving.
Quick Stats (2023-24)
- Top Ranked ND School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-5
- Enrollment: 265 students
- Average class size: 15 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
St. Mary's Grade School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in North Dakota for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-5
Student Body
Total Students
265 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
7%
State avg.: 18%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
15 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
18:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
15 students
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
School uniforms required for grades kindergarten through 5th grade.
School uniforms required for grades kindergarten through 5th grade.
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
School Notes
- St. Mary's Grade School was established in 1878 as St. Mary's Academy and Boarding School, Bismarck's first school; St. Mary's served as the only Catholic School in Bismarck for nearly 70 years and as such set the standard for Catholic School education. St. Mary's Grade School offers a modern educational program in which students learn mathematics, morality, fine arts, faith, and love in small classes taught by caring teachers. The 275 children at St. Mary's Grade School have opportunities to discover themselves as scholars, leaders, stewards, thinkers, and artists.
- We also boast top-notch facilities that include a library, an art room, gymnasium and music classroom. Continuing in this rich tradition, St. Mary's Grade School is committed to the mission of LIght of Christ Schools: Encountering Christ in our Catholic Faith through living, learning and serving.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What is St. Mary's Grade School's ranking?
St. Mary's Grade School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in North Dakota for: Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for St. Mary's Grade School?
The application deadline for St. Mary's Grade School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
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