In 1876, Nativity of Mary Parish became the second Catholic parish in Janesville. The church was built on the corner of Wisconsin and North First Streets (currently East Wall Street). As the population of Janesville and the parish continued to increase, a new church was built on the site of the old building. The new church building was dedicated on June 14, 1902.
In 1913, Saint Mary School was established in the former church building, which had been moved to the corner of Wisconsin Street and Prospect Avenue. In the 1st year, education was offered for 1st through 6th grades, and 96 students enrolled. Two years later, 7th grade was added, followed by 8th grade in the next year. Substantial and sustained growth by 1919 made it necessary to convert the 3rd floor of the building, at that time used as the church hall, into additional classroom space.
In 1921, ninth grade was added, and an adjacent plot of land was purchased for a playground and for future growth. In 1927, plans were developed to build a new school, and on May 12, 1929, the new school building located at 307 East Wall Street was dedicated.
At that time, all parish parents were required to send their children to Catholic schools, and as a result, enrollment was constantly increasing. Enrollment at the school grew from 458 students in 1947 to its peak of 568 students in 1952. That year there were 74 students in grade one alone (all in one room)!
With classes averaging 50 students per grade by 1959 (even with additional Catholic schools having been built in Janesville), half of the auditorium was converted into classroom space. Continued overcrowding finally forced St. Mary to eliminate ninth grade in 1966.
Kindergarten was added in the 1980s and pre-school in the 2010s.
In more recent decades, Catholic schools have faced new challenges as society and priorities have changed. Saint Mary School has always benefited from committed and enthusiastic students, families, staff, and Nativity of Mary parishioners. This dedication has enabled Saint Mary School to continue to welcome and serve students and their families!
Saint Mary School continues to innovate and evolve while respecting the long tradition of excellence in education and formation of our students into caring and community-minded young adults.
