Academic excellence is the school’s standard and an engaging, lively learning environment is its ideal. Classes are kept small, and learning opportunities are concrete and experiential whenever possible. Strong basic skills lay the foundation for challenging learning activities designed to allow students to apply and stretch their knowledge, develop critical thinking, and strengthen their independence as learners. The St. Mark’s community seeks to model the principles and philosophy of the student Honor Code throughout the school day. The guiding standards of integrity and respect are a way of life at St. Mark’s and academic responsibility is expected of each member of the school community.
St. Mark’s values a personal relationship with its students and their families. Helpful and frequent communications allow parents to follow the school’s activities and their child’s progress. The common goal of each student’s success drives the school’s desire to be an intimate-yet-exceptional learning environment for all children.
The school is structured into two divisions – Lower School (Preschool 2’s through Kindergarten for Early Childhood and grades one through four for Elementary School) and Middle School (fifth and sixth grades for Lower Middle and seventh and eighth grades for Upper Middle). Activities are tailored uniquely for each division; however, the school’s core values of trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, and caring are represented in all activities throughout each day. St. Mark’s is a nurturing school that fosters academic excellence while developing moral and spiritual character throughout its community.
Teachers at St. Mark’s are one of the school’s most empowering strengths. Their lengthy tenure at the school demonstrates their dedication to the students, the profession, and the development of self-esteem and confidence within each child. The teachers reflect a commitment to nurture the growth and development of each child’s character. This commitment guides the curriculum and daily experiences for all students, affecting interactions in their lives.
The St. Mark’s community is proud of our Honor Code and models these principles in its philosophy. The Honor Code is tailored to each division of the school. However, its guiding standards of integrity and respect for ourselves, each other, and the school community are a way of life at St. Mark’s and maintained in all grades.