St. Mary’s Academy
New Orleans, Louisiana
As one of the oldest African American schools in the nation founded to serve young women, this institution continues to this day to prepare underserved students for success locally and globally.
About
St. Mary’s Academy in New Orleans is a beacon of academic excellence and holistic education for its African American, all-female student body. Two of its students were featured on 60 minutes for using trigonometry to solve the 2,000 Pythagorean Theorem, underscoring how the academy challenges its students to high expectations of academic, social, emotional, and spiritual rigor. The school empowers students through leadership programs, such as the Henriette DeLille Institute and STEM-focused partnerships, and celebrates a 100% college acceptance rate for its graduates. With a strong emphasis on community engagement, diversity, and innovative teaching, SMA prepares its students to thrive as compassionate leaders and lifelong learners.
Their Story
For over 150 years, St. Mary’s Academy has provided a transformative education for African American young women, with an emphasis on personalized learning experiences, interdisciplinary projects, and leadership programming.
Pamela Rogers
President and Interim Principal
“As a premier educational institution with a rich history dating back to 1867, we have continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of our students, parents, and community, refocusing, redefining, and revolutionizing education by embracing innovative teaching methods and technologies. From personalized learning experiences to interdisciplinary projects, we are constantly exploring new ways to engage students and foster a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom.”
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Why they stand out
Founded in 1867 by the Sisters of the Holy Family – the second Black Catholic religious order in the U.S. – the school provides a top-notch education that’s both challenging and uplifting for its predominantly African American families. In this vibrant all-girls environment, students excel in leadership and self-esteem. With a rich array of extracurriculars, from sports to the arts and community service opportunities, the school ensures a well-rounded experience.
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How they STOP for education
At St. Mary’s Academy, students are given the freedom to take charge of their learning in a permissionless environment.
Students have earned outstanding results for over a century, including a 100% graduation rate and securing millions in college scholarships.
Louisiana makes it possible for St. Mary’s to be increasingly sustainable, having adopted several publicly funded measures to support the choices of low-income students.
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Winning their award
Winning a STOP Award enables St. Mary’s Academy to expand its impact to reach more students in New Orleans and potentially other communities and states.
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