Education and Training

       In St. Mary Parish Education is a journey for all from preschoolers to adults who seek certification in advanced skills and professional licenses.  Education today is integrated with the technologies of the future.   St. Mary Parish boasts of a visionary public education system and a solid parochial school system.

       The parish wide Public School System has 16 elementary schools and 10 secondary schools including six high schools, with enrollment of  10,000.  The average high school classroom size is 21.3 students to 1 teacher, creating a conducive learning environment for the student.

       The St. Mary Parish school board and superintendent, Dr. Donald Aguillard, have embarked on a plan to offer specialized education to High School Seniors, in conjunction with local businesses and community leaders.  The 2006-2007 school year is the inaugural year of implementation at four of the six high schools offering specialized training in the following areas:

Berwick High School-Forensic Science and Microbiology

Franklin High School - Fine Arts and Theatre

Morgan City High School - Medical Technology; Hospitality & Culinary Arts; and Education

Patterson High School - Information Technology

West St. Mary High School

      These specialized training courses will link both the classroom learning with practical experience as students work as apprentices at local businesses.

      St. Mary Parish students will be able to make more informed decisions whether they go to college or enter into the workforce.