This Commission coordinates all levels of education programming in the parish, children through adults, Catholic and public school children alike. The Commission’s role is to foster cooperation, coordination and communication among all groups and individuals involved in the education ministry of the parish. It encompasses 1) Adult Formation, 2) St. Mary Parish School and support organizations, and 3) Parish School of Religion and 4) Vacation Bible School.

1. Adult Formation:

Adult education is for anyone who is interested in learning more about our faith and how we live it. It is an opportunity to meet with other adults in our parish and spend some time focusing on scripture, a sacrament, or many other facets of our life as Catholics. These themes are presented through the use of booklets or a video series. Sessions are scheduled on a variety of days and times in order to be available to as many people as possible. They usually last 6 – 8 weeks and are scheduled twice a year - in the late fall/early winter and in late winter/early spring. Watch the bulletin for more information or contact Ann Hughes at .

The mission of St. Mary Parish Catholic School is to educate students while nurturing their Christ-like formation. The School Council provides direction for the educational mission of the parish with regard to the school, evaluates the implementation of policies regarding curriculum and programs, applies policies to issues referred to the council and advises the principal and pastor. The council consists of six members serving three-year terms, the principal, the pastor who serves as a standing member, a PTO representative and a Pastoral Council representative. Contact: Richard Montgomery 788-3151.

St. Mary PTO provides support to the students, teachers and staff, as well as the parish at large. We assist at special events, such as Mardi Gras and field day, and in the daily work of the school. We recognize that the school is part of the entire parish and we plan to lend support to the long-range goals of both the school and the parish. Meetings are held at varying times throughout the year. An open invitation to the meetings is extended to all parishioners. Contact: Richard Montgomery  788-3151.

The School Volunteer Program organizes volunteers from our parish to complete specific tasks for our school. There is a wide choice of tasks, times and frequency. All parishioners are strongly encouraged to volunteer with the ultimate goal of increasing their awareness, appreciation and sense of ownership of our parish school. To volunteer, contact Vicky Tully, Parish Membership & Volunteer Coordinator, at 788-5525.

3. Parish School of Religion (PSR):

A catechist is someone who has a genuine love for Christ and a desire to help children learn to follow his way.  Catechists are willing to share their own faith with our young people through weekly sessions during the   school year.  They wish to deepen their own faith through faith formation   opportunities and will participate in a VIRTUS training session.  If you   would like to learn more about being a PSR catechist contact Cat Wilson, John & Connie Kennedy, or Sherry Skinner at .

4) Vacation Bible School (VBS):

Vacation Bible School brings together children of the parish and community (preschool through fourth grade) to learn about Christ, the Bible and the Church through crafts, songs, recreation and a variety of fun activities. Volunteers range in age from 12 years old to adult and do a wide range of tasks—from teaching and assisting to preparing craft supplies and providing refreshments. Childcare is provided for the volunteers. The goal of Vacation Bible School is two-fold: to help form our children in our faith and to be a time of fun and fellowship for the children and adults alike! Contact: Janet Clark, 788-5525 (w) or 789-9925(h).