Welcome to St. Mary-Basha Catholic School
Since 1944, St. Mary-Basha Catholic School has been a vibrant and faith-filled community dedicated to forming students in mind, body, and spirit. Today, nearly 500 students in PreK through 8th Grade call SMB home, making us one of the largest Catholic elementary schools in the Diocese of Phoenix.
At SMB, everything we do is guided by our ACTS of Faith: Achievement, Community, Tradition, and Service. These pillars shape our students' educational experience and prepare them to become faithful disciples, lifelong learners, and compassionate leaders.
FAITH: THE FOUNDATION OF EVERYTHING WE DO
Our Catholic faith is at the heart of St. Mary-Basha Catholic School. Through daily prayer, religion classes, weekly Mass, retreats, sacramental preparation, and service opportunities, students are encouraged to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and live out the Gospel in their everyday lives.
Faith is not simply one subject among many. It is woven into every classroom, activity, and interaction on our campus. We strive to create an environment where students know they are loved by God and called to use their unique gifts in service to others.
ACHIEVEMENT
We believe every child is capable of success and growth. Our dedicated faculty challenges students academically while nurturing their confidence and love of learning.
As an Apple Distinguished School, we integrate technology thoughtfully to enhance instruction while maintaining a strong emphasis on foundational skills such as reading, writing, critical thinking, problem solving, and effective communication. Students benefit from engaging, rigorous instruction that prepares them for success in high school and beyond.
We also recognize that students learn in different ways. Through enrichment opportunities, targeted interventions, student support services, and individualized assistance, we work to ensure that every student receives the support needed to reach their full potential.
Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our accreditation through the Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA) through 2030 and in the continued success of our graduates as they move on to high school, college, and future careers.
COMMUNITY
At SMB, we are more than a school. We are a family.
Strong partnerships between parents, teachers, parishioners, alumni, and community members create an environment where students feel known, valued, and supported. Families play an active role in school life through volunteer opportunities, the Home and School Association, parish events, and countless activities that strengthen our community.
Students build meaningful relationships with peers and teachers while learning the importance of respect, collaboration, leadership, and empathy. The sense of belonging that students experience at SMB often lasts long after graduation.
TRADITION
For more than 80 years, St. Mary-Basha Catholic School has been a cornerstone of Catholic education in Chandler.
We honor the traditions that have shaped generations of students while embracing innovation and preparing our students for the future. Our rich history, strong Catholic identity, and commitment to academic excellence continue to guide our mission today.
Students participate in cherished school traditions, liturgical celebrations, community events, and faith-filled experiences that connect them to something greater than themselves. These traditions create lasting memories and foster a deep sense of pride in our school community.
As we look toward the future, we are excited to continue growing and enhancing opportunities for our students through our planned Arts and Athletics Center, which will expand learning, enrichment, athletic, and community experiences for generations to come.
SERVICE
Service is an essential part of a Catholic education and a core component of life at SMB.
Students are encouraged to recognize the needs of others and respond with generosity, compassion, and Christ-like love. Through classroom projects, school-wide initiatives, parish outreach, and community service opportunities, students learn that they have the power to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
By serving others, students develop leadership skills, empathy, gratitude, and a deeper understanding of their responsibility as members of the Body of Christ.
OPPORTUNITIES BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Learning extends far beyond the school day at SMB.
Students have opportunities to participate in a variety of athletic, academic, artistic, and leadership programs. Our CYAA athletic program promotes teamwork, sportsmanship, perseverance, and school spirit. Students may also participate in robotics, Academic Decathlon, National Junior Honor Society, student council, band, choir, theater, and numerous enrichment programs.
Junior high students benefit from a robust elective program that allows them to explore interests and develop practical skills through courses such as journalism, apologetics, personal finance, technology, career exploration, and many other specialized offerings.
These experiences help students discover their talents, build confidence, and develop the skills necessary to become successful leaders.
A PLACE TO GROW
When you choose St. Mary-Basha Catholic School, you are choosing a community where students are challenged academically, formed spiritually, supported personally, and inspired to serve others.
You are choosing a school where faith guides every decision, where excellence is expected, where traditions are treasured, and where every child is known and loved.
I invite you to visit our campus, meet our students and staff, and experience firsthand what makes St. Mary-Basha Catholic School such a special place.
Blessings,
Mrs. Katie Lyon
Principal
