St. Mary's School, Pontiac, Illinois, is a coeducational Catholic elementary school affiliated with St. Mary's Parish and the Peoria Diocese.
It is a grade school that is committed to the teaching of the Catholic faith and values from kindergarten through eighth grade.
It is a caring community where the Pastor, Commission on Education, administrator, teachers, and parents work together to ensure that children receive the finest possible education through a progressive program emphasizing religious education, basic skills, academic excellence, the fine arts, and physical fitness.
St. Mary's School is a Catholic co-educational community where human culture and knowledge illumined by Faith is shared and where students are helped to develop a sense of God, a sense of responsibility, a sense of direction, and a sense of mission.
The faculty assumes the responsibility of assisting the parents, who are the prime and foremost educators of the child, in educating the whole child while preserving each child's own individuality and uniqueness.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- Top Ranked IL School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 170 students
- Yearly Tuition: $4,780
- Acceptance rate: 99%
- Average class size: 25 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
St. Marys School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for:
Category
Attribute
School History
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
Year Founded
1903
Last Day of School
Mon. May 25, 2026
Student Body
Total Students
170 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
15%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
13 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
13:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
25 students
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
See handbook on website
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Tuition rates are reviewed every spring and are subject to change yearly. Please call the school for current fees.
Acceptance Rate
99%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Mrs. Sharon A. Warfield, Principal
Sports
Total Sports Offered
5 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
8 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Altar ServersBand
ChorusJunior High Youth Group
Math TeamScholastic Bowl
Speech TeamStudent Council
School Notes
- School Motto: Strive for excellence; never settle for mediocrity.
- School Mascot: Saints
- St. Mary's School, Pontiac, Illinois, is a coeducational Catholic elementary school affiliated with St. Mary's Parish and the Peoria Diocese. It is a grade school that is committed to the teaching of the Catholic faith and values from kindergarten through eighth grade. It is a caring community where the Pastor, Commission on Education, administrator, teachers, and parents work together to ensure that children receive the finest possible education through a progressive program emphasizing religious education, basic skills, academic excellence, the fine arts, and physical fitness. St. Mary's School is a Catholic co-educational community where human culture and knowledge illumined by Faith is shared and where students are helped to develop a sense of God, a sense of responsibility, a sense of direction, and a sense of mission. The faculty assumes the responsibility of assisting the parents, who are the prime and foremost educators of the child, in educating the whole child while preserving each child's own individuality and uniqueness.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Dr. Heidi Parker, ’93 alumna/ Federal Grant Consultant for the University of Southern California -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does St. Marys School cost?
St. Marys School's tuition is approximately $4,780 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of St. Marys School?
The acceptance rate of St. Marys School is 99%, which is higher than the national average of 84%.
Who are famous alumni from St. Marys School?
St. Marys School famous alumni include: Dr. Heidi Parker, ’93 alumna/ Federal Grant Consultant for the University of Southern California.
What sports does St. Marys School offer?
St. Marys School offers 5 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cheering, Softball and Volleyball.
What is St. Marys School's ranking?
St. Marys School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Illinois for: Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for St. Marys School?
The application deadline for St. Marys School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Calendar
View the St. Marys School yearly calendar below. Note key dates such as:
Event
Date
Spring Break
March 30, 2026 (Monday)
Last Day for 8th Grade
May 19, 2026 (Tuesday)
Last Day of School - 11:30am Dismissal
May 22, 2026 (Friday)
School Reviews
Endorse St. Marys School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
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- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
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