Founded in 1887

St. Mary's School system was founded in 1887 by our first resident pastor, Father Francis Xavier Schulte. The Sisters of St. Francis of Dubuque arrived the next year and had primary responsibility for the education of parish children through the 1950's - with as many as 24 sisters serving at one time. 

The high school was added in the early 1900's and the system now includes Preschool through 12th grade, with St. Mary's Grade School on the church block (PreK through fourth grades) and St. Mary's Middle and High School (grades 5-12) at 523 Madison St.

Church is on the left, parsonage is on the right, school is building set farther back.
 

History of School Song

St. Mary’s school song truly belongs to St. Mary’s; we are the only school in the world with this song. Not many schools can say they have their own song, and in our case, thanks go to Sr. Mary Arnold Staudt. Sr. Arnold, a Dubuque Franciscan, arrived to teach at St. Mary’s in 1966, and during her first school year, composed the music and wrote the lyrics for the Hawks’ first and only school song.

Larry Brazil, the band director, worked out the band arrangement for the song, and it was soon in use at all athletic events and at other school gatherings. The song serves to unify us and foster devotion to our patroness and her school.
 

Remsen St. Mary’s School Song 

Sing out for Remsen St. Mary’s High 
 We’ll raise a cheer for you. 
 (Rah, Rah, Rah)

High in our hearts your colors will fly 
 We love your white and blue. 
 (Rah, Rah, Rah) 

Through all life’s battles we’ll fight to win 
 Spread far and wide your fame. 

St. Mary’s High of Remsen 
 May we bring honor to your name.