St. Mary of Gostyn School (SMG) combines exceptional academics with a strong faith-based environment. SMG students experience a Catholic culture, including daily prayer, religion class, and weekly Mass. They also encounter a challenging curriculum that inspires them to excel academically, develop confidence and a strong sense of self, build personal relationships, and serve others. The school’s dedicated team of teachers and staff emphasizes creativity, critical and analytical thinking, and real-world application with a Catholic worldview to help students learn, grow, and thrive.

Over 125 years ago, SMG opened as the first parochial school in Downers Grove in a one-room wooden schoolhouse. Today, after several additions to the original structure, activity center, and gyms, SMG is home to over 490 students from preschool through eighth grade.

Parents, the primary educators of their children, partner with SMG to create an environment that meets each child’s specific needs. SMG believes that every child has God-given abilities, talents, and needs. They maintain a curriculum and environment that encourages each child to succeed, providing additional academic support such as supplemental reading and math programs when necessary. In addition, religious education is a priority at SMG and helps each child develop a personal relationship with God.

Furthermore, SMG provides opportunities for growth in self-esteem and happiness inside and outside the classroom, and the curriculum subjects – beyond Common Core – are essential. Many extracurricular opportunities are offered to help create this learning environment, including Math Club, Environmental Club, Geography Club, Voices (a literary magazine), BAM Theater,

Students for Life, chess class, school musical, and various other clubs. Basketball, cross country, volleyball, cheerleading, track and field, and football are also offered with a no-cut policy. 

For more information about how SMG is the right fit for your family, visit stmarygostyn.org/school.