St. Mary's Academy is a co-educational elementary school and college preparatory middle and high school for young ladies. Founded by the Sister's of the Holy Family here in New Orleans, SMA is one of the oldest Black Catholic schools in the country; and we are committed to educating the whole person — spiritually, academically, and socially — in a family oriented, faith-based environment. Rooted in Catholic values, we inspire students to live with integrity, think critically, serve their communities, and advocate for justice. Open to students of all backgrounds, we foster inclusivity and equality, carrying forward a proud legacy of faith, excellence, and opportunity.
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For the third time in the competition's history, St. Mary’s Academy’s Mock Trial team earned an outstanding first-place win at the Allen Ray Bolin Trial Advocacy Workshop Competition, held on January 18, 2025.
St. Mary’s Academy proudly celebrates the achievement of 8th grader Na’Jai Williams, who was recently inducted into the prestigious Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council following her completion of the Junior Civic Leadership Academy.
The Yass Prize, worth a total of $500,000 for the Academy, will go towards accelerating the educational experience of each student at St. Mary’s Academy today and in the future.
Fully approved by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and by the State of Louisiana, St. Mary’s Academy enjoys a strong position among the better schools in the country. The scholarship and teaching ability of the faculty are reflected in the consistent success of the students while they are here and when they enter institutions of higher learning.