St. Mary’s School has been a respected center of learning and character formation for decades. Established on August 11, 1957, the school began its journey with only 25 students enrolled. What started as a small educational initiative has today grown into a well known institution that has played a significant role in shaping the lives of thousands of students.
About Saint Mary's School, Rajkot, Gujarat
The school was founded by Fr. E. Gadea SJ, who was the Parish Priest of Rajkot at that time. As the founder and first Principal, he laid the foundation for an institution that would focus not only on academic excellence but also on moral values, discipline, and the overall development of students.
In its early days, classes were conducted within the premises of the Catholic Church in Mochi Bazaar. Despite limited resources and space, the dedication of teachers and the vision of its founder helped the school grow steadily. Within a short time, the institution gained recognition for its commitment to providing quality education and nurturing young minds.
Early Development and Recognition
As the school continued to expand, it gained official recognition from the Government of Saurashtra on June 11, 1959. This recognition marked an important milestone in the history of St. Mary’s School and provided the foundation for further development.
The leadership of the school played a crucial role in shaping its progress. In 1960 61, Bro. Harry Rodrigues SJ served as the Principal. His dedication and commitment to education helped strengthen the institution during its formative years. He remained associated with the school for fifteen years, contributing significantly to its growth and stability.
In June 1961, Fr. Mateo Ramonell SJ took over as the Principal. Under his guidance, the school introduced Gujarati as a medium of instruction in addition to English. This step made education more accessible to students from the local community and reflected the institution’s inclusive approach to learning.
Expansion and New Campus
One of the most important developments in the history of St. Mary’s School occurred in 1961 when Fr. Ramonell purchased the current campus property on Kalawad Road, located about five kilometers from the city center. This decision was a major step forward, as it provided the school with a larger space to expand its facilities and accommodate a growing number of students.
The foundation stone for the new building was laid in January 1962. The construction of the campus marked the beginning of a new phase for the institution. By June of the same year, the school had shifted its operations to the new premises.
Although the initial building was ready for use, the full construction of the campus continued for another five years. During this period, the school gradually expanded its infrastructure, adding classrooms and facilities that supported a better learning environment.
The new campus offered students a peaceful and spacious environment away from the busy city area, allowing them to focus on their studies and extracurricular activities.
