“St. Mary’s is still the best, right?”
It’s a question we hear from alumnae, prospective families, donors, and longtime Memphians — and we answer with a resounding and enthusiastic, “Yes!”
Niche.com recognized St. Mary’s as the Best All-Girls School in Tennessee, a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing an unparalleled educational experience that nurtures every girl’s potential.
For us, “being the best” means so much more than outstanding test scores or impressive college acceptances.
In fact, it even means more than rankings from online review sites.
It means cultivating an environment where each girl is known and loved, and where academic excellence is interwoven with personal growth, character building, and community engagement.
Being named the No. 1 all-girls school in Tennessee is more than an honor — it’s a testament to the passion, dedication, and spirit that define St. Mary’s. This recognition reflects our long-standing commitment to support and celebrate each student’s unique journey.” - Albert Throckmorton, Head of School
Since 1847, our mission has remained clear: to bring out the best in every girl.
And here are 10 ways we help each girl shine.
1. Nurturing Every Girl's Academic Journey
As Director of Admission Nicole Hernandez puts it, “There are as many paths at St. Mary’s as there are students.”
At St. Mary’s, academics aren’t one size-fits-all. On occasion, prospective families will ask questions about whether our rigorous course curriculum might be too challenging.
Parents who choose St. Mary’s are looking for the best education for their daughters, and that’s something we’ve always been committed to. What’s changed in recent years is that parents now want to know we can meet their daughters where they are academically — and we absolutely can, with personalized support to help each student grow and succeed.” - Nicole Hernandez, Director of Admission
This intentional approach begins in Early Childhood and follows girls through a possible 16 years of continuous, personalized education at St. Mary’s. From our earliest grades, every lesson builds upon the last.” - Christina Block, Head of Early Childhood
Faculty collaborate across grades and divisions, sharing insights on coursework, learning patterns, and educational advancements to continually enhance students’ learning experiences. With a learning specialist in every division, our teachers work to meet students exactly where they are academically.
It takes time and careful planning, but the payoff is absolutely worth it. It’s all student-centered, guiding the instructional approach for our teachers. When everyone is involved in the discussions, process, and planning, the end result is so much stronger.” - Jessica Lancaster, North Campus Curriculum Director
2. Proven Academic Excellence
Our academic accolades — such as a prestigious Platinum Status from the AP Board, National Merit recognitions, and impressive college matriculations and scholarships — reflect the success of our academic approach.
I credit much of our AP course success to our teachers. In a space where the AP curriculum can feel prescribed, our faculty makes it come alive in ways to which our girls positively respond. We have a lot of smarties!” - Beverly Brooks, Director of College Counseling
Consistent AP Test Success
St. Mary’s maintains a prestigious Platinum Status from the AP Board, recognizing the school’s outstanding AP offerings and impressive scores. More and more students are taking AP-level courses, and the school has retained its stellar marks.
“It’s remarkable that the passing rate has stayed consistent even as the number of exams has grown,” said Kate Stakem EdD, Director of Studies.
Guiding Girls to Their Best Fit
St. Mary’s College Counseling has one goal: finding the best school for each student. This means considering each girl’s interests, family financial needs, and college programmatic offerings. Oftentimes, because our students have so many passions and interests, they can see themselves in many different places.
Our students who haven’t picked a college major aren’t undecided — they’re multidecided.” - Beverly Brooks, Director of College Counseling
Last year, 30 percent of the class enrolled in a highly competitive honors or specialized program at the college level.
The Only Girls School with National Merit Recognition in Memphis
This year, St. Mary’s was the only girls school in Memphis to have students named National Merit Finalists!
Four outstanding seniors are among the top 1% of 1.3 million students who took the PSAT in fall 2023, earning a spot in one of the nation’s most prestigious academic recognitions.
St. Mary’s is also home to six seniors named National Merit Commended Scholars who scored in the top 2-3% of PSAT takers. And the good news doesn’t stop there. Six more students were recognized as part of the African American, Hispanic, and First-Generation recognition programs.
3. Our Hidden Curriculum
Beyond academics, St. Mary’s places a strong emphasis on what we call the “hidden curriculum” -- lessons in organization, executive functioning, and time management. From an early age, organization is woven into the girls’ academic routine so that it becomes second nature.
Even our second graders have a planner so they understand how to look ahead.” - Shelby Chambliss Pascal ’11, Second Grade Teacher
As the workload increases in Middle School, courses like Mind, Soul, Body, as well as lessons in digital organization, help girls balance their studies and develop lifelong skills.
We teach organizational, time management, and planning skills so that students can develop an operating system that will continue to power their productivity far beyond St. Mary’s.” Crystal Spillyards, Middle School English Teacher.
Upper School students benefit from a rotating schedule that encourages smart time management, offering free periods designed for study, college prep, or extracurricular pursuits. One of the unique features of this schedule is ALAPP —Advising, Languages, AP, and Programs.
“ALAPP is a 45-minute daily period that aligns with best practices for the development of teenage girls' brains and how they learn,” says Director of Studies Kate Stakem, EdD. “ALAPP time can be spent working on publications, meeting with teachers to solidify understanding, and providing our AP faculty with additional time for labs and further in-depth instruction.”
The investment in teaching our girls essential life skills pays off immeasurably when they reach college.
Our college freshmen regularly tell us that their writing professors use their papers as exemplars, and they also ask our students, ‘Where did you go to high school to learn to write like this?” - Shari Ray, Chair of the English Department
Alumnae often share that their St. Mary’s education not only equipped them for their next step but also made them more than ready to thrive. These lessons often evolve into lasting habits that they carry with them into the professional world as well.
Attending St. Mary’s was the perfect foundation for my college journey. The rigorous academics, close-knit community, and emphasis on critical thinking challenged me to grow both intellectually and personally. It wasn’t just about learning facts; it also taught time management and prioritization, effective communication, and self-advocacy.” - Cameron Hart ’23, sophomore at Emory University
Beyond academic support, St. Mary’s girls benefit from a dedicated counseling team that nurtures their emotional and social well-being. Through classroom discussions on topics like social media and personalized counseling sessions, girls learn to advocate for themselves — an essential lifelong skill.
Amy Poag, Director of Counseling, acknowledges the challenges of balancing a demanding school and extracurricular schedule, and she encourages girls to find their own equilibrium. “It’s okay to say ‘no’ sometimes. Prioritizing well-being means finding ways to stay energized and healthy while managing all of life’s responsibilities,” she explains.
Between St. Mary’s hidden curriculum, focus on school-life balance, and dedication to fostering social and emotional support, St. Mary’s graduates leave here prepared, both academically and emotionally.
4. Character Development
Academic excellence is only part of the St. Mary’s story. Our signature character education program, the Bridge to Caring, is the heartbeat of our community. This program instills the traits of responsibility, respect, thankfulness, kindness, self-control, honesty, courage, and cooperation into the lives of every student, traits that will guide her both now and in the future.
For many girls, these values have a profound impact, lasting far beyond early childhood. In fact, Middle School Head Katherine House often talks with her students about how they can further espouse these characteristics rather than simply rattle them off.
We talk a lot about how being kind, being respectful, and using self-control are not always the easiest things to do. We process these ideas by working through scenarios and brainstorming ways to bring the Bridge to Caring to life.” - Katherine House, Head of Middle School
This focus on character is reinforced through our Honor Code, which students sign each year in Middle and Upper School as a pledge to uphold honesty, respect, and accountability both on campus and in the wider community.
The Honor Code is a longstanding tradition at St. Mary’s but is constantly evolving as technology advances and AI becomes more prevalent in academia.
“The Honor Code and Honor Council are vital components with the constant changing of access to technology,” said Upper School Spanish Teacher and Honor Council Co-Sponsor Ms. Sarah Kerst. “We are working as a council to maintain the integrity of our school and our learning at St. Mary’s. We are committed to students using their own knowledge and studies to produce work.”
As technology usage evolves, our commitment to honor and integrity remains constant.” Courtney Gillespie, Co-Sponsor Honor Council and Upper School Science Teacher
St. Mary’s girls don’t just learn about character — they live it. Armed with respect, kindness, and courage, they step into the world ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference.
5. A Place Where Everyone Belongs
St. Mary’s isn’t just a school — it’s a vibrant, inclusive community that is grounded in the Episcopal tradition.
At St. Mary’s, one of our core values is to support each girl’s spiritual growth while being knowledgeable and respectful of each other’s beliefs. This fosters a deep sense of love and welcome in our community.” - Rainey Ray Segars ’05, Head Chaplain
Our commitment to understanding members of our community is far-reaching.
My role is to ensure everyone feels seen and valued — whether they’re students, families, or faculty. For me, belonging and equity are about helping people feel part of the community and recognizing everyone’s unique contributions, no matter their background.” - Director of Belonging Nikki Davis.
One of the most important ways we learn about one another is through Chapel. Chapel services are held weekly for our Early Childhood and Lower School students, and daily for our Middle and Upper School girls.
During Chapel, the girls learn about Christianity through the lens of the Episcopal tradition. Members of our community from all faith and cultural backgrounds also share about their heritage during this time, often highlighting the similarities between cultures, rather than differences.
In the Upper School, Fireside Chats foster dialogue on important current events, encouraging healthy debate and civil discourse among classmates.
St. Mary’s also offers cultural and religious affinity groups for students to further their sense of belonging and connection. Oftentimes, these affinity groups will take the lead in sharing more about their heritage or faith with their peers.
Our commitment to our Episcopal identity and to fostering a true sense of belonging is just as valuable, and just as rich with learning opportunities, as our academic curriculum.
6. Articulate Young Women
One of the ways girls build confidence and courage is through public speaking — and at St. Mary’s, it starts early.
In our Early Childhood program, presentation skills are woven into the fabric of the curriculum. For example, senior kindergarten students present a weekly reading journal to the class, sharing what they've read and a corresponding illustration.
The students have the opportunity to answer questions from their peers, gaining valuable experience in speaking in front of others and answering questions extemporaneously.
As students progress, the opportunities to speak in front of an audience continue to grow. By fourth grade, students take turns leading the weekly Lower School Chapel, facilitating the service in front of 250 students, parents, guests, and faculty.
The fourth graders tackle the responsibility of chapel leadership with courage, enthusiasm, and grace. St. Mary’s gives each girl the tools, encouragement, and experience needed to step into a more confident version of herself.” - Anna Wheeler ’08, North Campus Chaplain
Seniors culminate their public speaking journey with a personal speech in front of the entire Middle and Upper School community at the Church of the Holy Communion. Sharing lessons they've learned or meaningful takeaways from their time at St. Mary's, these speeches are heartfelt, often emotional, and delivered with humor and ease.
“Our senior speech tradition is beloved because it offers students a chance to shine a light on their particular journey, and it is one of the most beautiful manifestations of our school mission. The topics and stories are often both unique and universal in their scope.” - Lauren Rogers, EdD, Head of Upper School
By nurturing presentation skills from an early age, St. Mary’s empowers students to become confident communicators, ready to take on leadership roles throughout their academic journeys and beyond.
7. Investing Time and Talents in Memphis
Understanding our community and being active participants in civic engagement are priorities for St. Mary’s. While some opportunities are to improve certain aspects of our community, others are simply to understand the needs and challenges of our city.
St. Mary's has a multitude of important partnerships across the city, enriching our students' experiences and uplifting our city. Here are a few recent highlights.
Seventh Graders Understand Community Needs Through MIFA
Seventh-grade students learn about people experiencing poverty and food insecurity through Community Connections, a course designed with a focus on MIFA (Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association). Girls take their classroom learning and lead service projects such as volunteering at MIFA and organizing donation opportunities.
“Through MIFA, our students learn how nonprofits operate and experience the real-world impact of service,” said Middle School Counselor Andrea Peredo.
Second Graders Practice Empathy with Madonna Learning Center
This spring, second graders partnered with the Madonna Learning Center, which supports children with learning and communication differences. The girls hosted a playdate, created art, practiced social skills, and interacted with children who communicate differently.
I’m so proud of our second graders and their partnership with the Madonna Learning Center. These experiences help our girls build relationships and learn to appreciate others’ differences.” - Marcisha Brazley-Keith, EdD, Head of the Lower School
For Mary Austin Mays Smith ’03, this partnership holds special meaning as her son, Davidson, attends Madonna. “When I watched my daughter Phoebe Diane ’36 and other SMS girls welcome students from Madonna, I reflected on how these interactions will forever impact my life,” Smith shared. “It was a beautiful personification of the Bridge to Caring.”
Students Run Grant-making St. Mary’s Community Fund
Upper School students develop skills in fundraising and grant-making through the St. Mary's Community Fund (SMCF). The student-led project raises over $35,000 annually as well as solicits and reviews grant applications. This spring, the fund’s total giving to nonprofits since 1999 will reach $750,000.
“Raising upwards of $35,000 every year isn’t easy, but the St. Mary's Community Fund couldn’t accomplish its goals without the entire St. Mary’s community.”- Caroline Hill ’24, Lower School SMCF Chair
Students Run Grant-making St. Mary’s Community Fund
Upper School students develop skills in fundraising and grant-making through the St. Mary's Community Fund (SMCF). The student-led project raises over $35,000 annually as well as solicits and reviews grant applications. This spring, the fund’s total giving to nonprofits since 1999 will reach $750,000.
Raising upwards of $35,000 every year isn’t easy, but the St. Mary's Community Fund couldn’t accomplish its goals without the entire St. Mary’s community.”- Caroline Hill ’24, Lower School SMCF Chair
8. Expert, Dedicated Faculty
When I take prospective families on tours, they’re most impressed with the quality and expertise of our teachers.” - Nicole Hernandez, Director of Admission
For some of our faculty and staff, St. Mary’s is more than a workplace — it’s a lifelong calling. Our faculty’s deep-rooted connection reflects their steadfast belief in our school — not only do they dedicate their careers to St. Mary’s, but they also entrust us with their own children’s education.
As a community, we embrace educational and professional development as a tool to foster a growth mindset. This leadership is exemplified at the highest levels, with our Head of School, Albert Throckmorton, currently serving as a Trustee for the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and as the 2024-2025 President of the Heads Collegiate Forum.
At academic conferences and meetings, I often hear colleagues remark on the exceptional caliber of St. Mary’s faculty and the school’s commitment to academic excellence. It’s a testament to the extraordinary people who make up our community.” - Albert Throckmorton, Head of School
Our faculty and staff are dedicated to continuous learning, often extending their expertise into higher education. In 2023, Upper School Head Dr. Lauren Rogers received her doctoral degree in education leadership and policy from Vanderbilt University.
“I decided to enroll in the program to study systems of learning and, more specifically, to delve deeper into the theories of improvement science. I was lucky to work with over 800 independent school leaders to research my capstone project, Building Better Boards,” says Rogers. Following her doctoral degree, she began teaching as an adjunct professor at Columbia University, flying from Memphis to New York to instruct her courses.
Teaching at Columbia has been an incredible experience. “It has broadened my perspective and allowed me to bring fresh insights back to St. Mary’s.” - Lauren Rogers, EdD, Head of Upper School
Director of College Counseling Beverly Brooks remains deeply involved with her alma mater, The College of Wooster, serving on their alumni board and being recognized in 2023 as the Outstanding Young Alumni. She has contributed her expertise to Belmont University’s Counselor Advisory Board and as a Point Foundation Scholar Selection Committee member. Ms. Brooks was also recently awarded the Larry West Award for Leadership, the Southern Association for College Admission Counseling's highest honor.
Lower School Art Teacher Kelly Cook has long been passionate about K-12 art education, but she also discovered a love for teaching at the university level while earning a master’s of fine arts. Now, in addition to her full-time role at St. Mary's, she teaches as an adjunct professor at the University of Memphis.
“I like to joke that I teach everyone from ages 4 to 74. The students’ fearlessness in the art room influences my personal art practice. When I see first and second-grade girls rolling up their sleeves and diving headfirst into a project, it encourages me to take creative risks in my own studio.” - Kelly Cook, Lower School Art Teacher
9. A Well-Rounded Experience
Beyond academics, we offer exceptional learning opportunities outside the classroom, from athletics to robotics to the arts to global travel opportunities. We ensure our girls are prepared for the world ahead.
Upper School students have so many opportunities to find their passion. With more than 40 clubs, affinity groups, honor societies, and publications, there is a place for each girl to shine. Beyond that, it’s a place to practice leadership.
We want girls to know that leadership is more than a title — it's about collaboration, listening, and growing together. St. Mary’s is a safe place to learn to work as a team, embrace diverse perspectives, and struggle through a challenge. Our students leave here confident and not afraid to step up in college and in their careers." - Holly Hensarling, Director of Student Life
St. Mary’s athletic program is a testament to our holistic approach to education. With two state titles in recent years — lacrosse and golf — our student-athletes learn that winning is about personal growth and teamwork as much as it is about trophies.
Assistant Athletic Director Kendall Visinsky explains, “It’s about becoming leaders and achieving personal goals along the way.”
With opportunities ranging from Lower School sports to state-wide competitive teams in Upper School, over 75% of our students participate in athletics, balancing academics with the benefits of teamwork and physical fitness.
In the Makerspace, Applied Technology and Innovation Center Coordinator Meagan Michael witnesses firsthand how the VEX robotics team develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
“I see remarkable resilience as girls face challenges,” Michael says. “When something doesn’t work, they approach it from a different angle in the engineering design process. The students aren’t rattled by this.”
This resiliency has paid off in the form of tournament recognition and advancement to the VEX World Championships in recent years, including 2025.
Another example of collaboration happens down the hall at the Buckman Center for Performing and Fine Arts. This world-class theater hosts ten main stage performances each season, as well as the Buckman Dance Conservatory.
"No other school in the region offers access to learn from and engage with rising stars and living legends like Buckman,” said Cindi Younker, Director of the Buckman Center. In addition to arts classes, students are offered the opportunity to participate in vocal performances, band concerts, and theater productions regularly.
My favorite part of teaching music at St. Mary's is the students. I love to see them work really hard on a new piece and watch them slowly understand how it fits together. They always say, ‘We sound good!’ as if they're surprised. I grew up singing in choirs and I'm so glad that there are girls who love it as much as I do.” - Fine Arts Department Chair Julie Millen
The Global Scholars Program further enriches our curriculum by offering students immersive experiences in international travel and cultural exchange. From exploring the trail of the Protestant Reformation in Germany, France, and Switzerland to history tours in Moorish Spain and Ireland, our girls are encouraged to explore global issues and develop a broader worldview.
This type of experiential learning stays with them for longer than any ‘textbook’ lesson.” - Leanne Hinkle, Director of Global Education and Middle School French Teacher
10. The Power of Our Community
Last but certainly not least — YOU!
Whether you're a parent, alumna, student, generous contributor, volunteer, or passionate advocate, you are the core of our success. You help ensure that St. Mary’s remains the best place for our daughters, granddaughters, neighbors, nieces, friends, and other loved ones.
We all remember the big events that unite us in making a magnificent impact. Our biennial Parents Association Auction last year not only raised funds — it fostered new friendships.
Our parents are the backbone of St. Mary’s Episcopal School. The 2024 Parent Party and Auction provided an opportunity for parents of all ages to come together to show support for the school and have some fun, too.” - Carol Fields, parent of Charlotte ’32 and event chair
St. Mary’s Trivia Night sold out for the second year in a row. It brought together parents, alumnae, and East Memphis neighbors, further solidifying the connection between our school and the surrounding community.
This spring, St. Mary’s revived its golf tournament, affectionately named the Turkey Tee-Off, and the interest was overwhelming. These events don’t just raise funds, they build relationships and foster a larger, more vibrant community. We are grateful to have the people and spaces that allow these connections to flourish.
Of course, it’s not just the large events that create impact. There are countless microstories that, over time, weave not just into St. Mary’s history, but into family history. The bond among our students extends beyond the classroom, growing into lifelong sisterhoods. Alumnae share stories of mentorship, enduring friendships, and the lasting impact of their time at St. Mary’s.
St. Mary’s has always been a special place for my family. Mary Jensen Nease ’10 and I grew up as best friends here. Now, seeing our daughters, Mary Lane ’36 and Nora ’36, as classmates is incredibly meaningful. We know they’ll share the same St. Mary’s bond that has connected our families for years.” - Lucy Foster Stevens ’10
Our Alumnae Board works tirelessly to nurture lifelong bonds among our graduates and the school. Alumnae Board President, Emma Less ’13 is passionate about expanding the ways alumnae can remain engaged after graduation.
Whether through special events like Alumnae Weekend or through AlumLink — our online networking platform — there are endless opportunities for alumnae of every generation to remain an integral part of the St. Mary’s community.” - Emma Less, Alumnae Board President
While parents have the opportunity to volunteer in classrooms or serve on the Parents Association Board, St. Mary’s understands that not everyone can dedicate the same level of time. That’s why we prioritize creating many opportunities for families to engage with the school in ways that complement their daughter’s experience.
One of the most popular ways parents connect with the school is through attending Chapel in Early Childhood or Lower School.
Attending weekly Chapel has strengthened our relationships with SMS faculty, staff, and other families. The lessons imparted are not only beneficial for the children but for adults as well. We are thankful for the opportunity St. Mary’s gives parents for meaningful fellowship with their daughters at school.” - Leslie Settle, mom to Audrey ’33 and Mary Franklin ’36
For nearly 180 years, St. Mary’s has been a lifelong community, strengthened by the passion, generosity, and unwavering support of people like you. And because of you, St. Mary’s isn’t just #1 — it’s home.
Always Bringing Out The Best
“I'm proud to be a St. Mary’s student and to be part of the amazing community here. I love knowing that the people that I surround myself with are good people. All of my friends help me be the best I can be and push me to my full potential. I’m also grateful for all the teachers who reach out and help me whenever I need it.” - Eliza Fogleman '29
We can only stay #1 with your help!
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