Empowering minds today to prepare for tomorrow
Since its founding in 1953, St. Mary's School has had a strong academic environment with renowned programming—an accelerated curriculum designed to challenge students academically. All students receive instruction in Art, Music, Spanish, Latin, STEM, Library, Religious Studies, and Physical Education.
Though we have evolved to change with the times and needs of our students, the foundation of our curriculum remains deeply rooted: emphasis on attracting top-level faculty members who combine their teaching skills with a desire to offer individualized attention to each student. Teachers willingly provide the extra tutoring and counseling it takes to help students build a solid foundation and the fundamental study skills to prepare them for the challenges of higher education.
St. Mary's is proud to be fully accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools and the Southern Association of Independent Schools. Our esteemed curriculum is designed to prepare students for success in college and beyond. All students are offered extra attention to master subjects they find difficult and advanced classes are offered to students who have strengths that require higher challenges.
course of Study
english
The English curriculum begins with phonics in kindergarten and progresses to advanced composition along with the analysis of novels, plays, and poetry by the time students reach 8th grade.
mathematics
The math curriculum begins with foundational arithmetic skill-building and advances through to Honors Algebra and Honors Geometry.
social science
Education in history, geography, and social studies starts at an early age and culminates in a focused study of American history with special emphasis on the significance of our Freedom Documents.
science
Our state-of-the-art science labs foster a natural excitement for science among students from the earliest grades. The opportunities for exploration and discovery lay the groundwork for in-depth study of biology, chemistry, and physics in 7th and 8th grades.
foreign language
Spanish is a part of the curriculum for all students from Pre-K to 5th grade. In 5th grade, students study an Introductory Latin class. In middle school, students have the choice of world language concentration in either Spanish or Latin.
Primary Division
Grades Pre-k - 2
In the St. Mary's Primary Division, the early childhood journey transitions from home to the classroom, where teachers embrace both the child and the family, ensuring a smooth and steady educational progression. We engage students in learning through hands-on activities, playful interactions, and by cultivating their individual talents. Our curriculum builds progressively with each grade, enhancing reading, writing, and math skills and is further complemented by activities that foster independence, organizational skills, and time management.
Intermediate Division
Grades 3 - 5
The Intermediate Division serves as a bridge between the Primary Division and Middle School, offering a diverse and well-rounded educational experience enriched with comprehensive programming. Our dedicated faculty not only impart knowledge but also serve as positive role models and make learning enjoyable with fun educational experiences that keep students engaged. This phase prepares students for Middle School by gradually increasing academic expectations, fostering character development, teaching responsibility, and enhancing organizational skills.
Middle School
Grades 6 - 8
Middle School at St. Mary's represents the pinnacle of a student's journey, where the nurturing, development, and skills acquired are fully realized. Transitioning from the familiarity of four grade-level teachers, students adapt to a traditional middle school structure with specialist teachers for each subject. Emphasis is placed on organizational skills, study habits, and time management. Leadership and responsibility are key expectations, fostering strong, independent young adults eager to succeed and contribute to the well-being of others.
Beyond Academics
Let us help you determine if St. Mary's is the right fit for your child.
We're eager to welcome your family to our vibrant community and show you how we inspire curiosity, kindness, and dignity. We look forward to sharing more information, getting to know your child, and helping you get to know St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School.
Schedule a visit to explore St. Mary's School, located on 8.5 acres in sunny Tampa. Our campus facilities include classrooms, laboratories, art and music studios, a performing arts facility, a library, a gymnasium, playgrounds, athletic fields, St. Mary's Church, and much more.
We are currently accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year. The Admissions Committee evaluates applicants based on their application, school record, teacher recommendation, interviews, observations, and admissions assessments.