St. Mary-Basha Catholic School is dedicated to preparing the student for a life that will positively impact the community through principles rooted in the Gospel and in the teachings of the Catholic Church.
St. Mary-Basha Catholic School is dedicated to the education of the whole child as a Catholic and a citizen.
With the mutual cooperation of the home, school, Church and community, we provide an atmosphere in which each student is given the opportunity to develop his/her unique gifts in order to build a life based on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
St. Mary-Basha Catholic School student learning expectations reflect what what every student who leaves our school should know, understand and be able to accomplish before graduation.
St. Mary-Basha students are active Catholics, responsible citizens, active learners, and efficient communicators.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked AZ School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 384 students
- Yearly Tuition: $6,200
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Average class size: 23 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
St. Mary-basha Catholic School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Arizona for:
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Mild learning differences
Year Founded
1944
Awards
Blue Ribbon School - Selected in 1998
Student Body
Total Students
384 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
38%
State avg.: 38%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
34 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
11:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
47%
Average Class Size
23 students
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Navy twill slacks/shorts/skorts; plaid jumpers/skirts; white or navy 2-button polo - no pocket
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Families are encouraged to apply for financial assistance through Catholic Education Arizona and the Pastor Scholarship.
Acceptance Rate
90%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Lorrie Fischer
Sports
Total Sports Offered
6 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
8 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Choir
Club or Organization:
Boy Scouts, Chess Club, Little Flowers Girls Club, National Junior Honor Society, Robotics Club, Student Council
Arts and Music Programs:
Band
Club or Organization:
Boy Scouts, Chess Club, Little Flowers Girls Club, National Junior Honor Society, Robotics Club, Student Council
Arts and Music Programs:
Band
School Notes
School Highlights:
- The oldest private school in Chandler, St. Mary-Basha has a long-standing tradition focused on the formation of the whole child.
- We are the only Catholic Elementary School in Chandler serving East Valley students from Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Maricopa and surrounding areas
- Accredited by the Western Catholic Educational Association with highest commendation.
- Selected as Best of Chandler for Catholic Schools 2022
- We have a flourishing, licensed Preschool and PreKindergarten for 3-5 year old children offering an outstanding start to their education in a fun, nurturing and engaging environment.
- 1:1 student to ipad, and Chromebooks in all grades
- New in 2022, we have a full-time STREAM instructor leading our program toengage students in an exciting curriculum that breaks down the walls between science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The curriculum is presented through a project-based and hands-on approach that encourages students to explore, create and innovate.
- Renovated STREAM Lab and MakerSpace enables all students an opportunity to tinker and develop their critical thinking and problem solving skills in a fun and engaging environment. (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, Math)
- All K-8 students participate in enrichment courses of Physical Education (PE), Music, Art, Spanish, and STREAM taught by dedicated subject matter expert teachers.
- Class field trip days included in tuition fees and overnight excursions at a reduced rate for students.
- Before and After School extended care.
- Education expands beyond the classroom at SMB! We offer athletic and extracurricular programs for every intertest your student may have.Junior high students can select from a variety of electives in relevant subjects and critical life skills to prepare them for their future careers
- Advancement Math placement in Junior High provides an edge to high school math placement
- We utilize standardized tests including the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) and STAR Reading and STAR Math to assess and measure student progress throughout the year and allow for individualized student support plans
- Consistently above average Iowa Test results with students performing 1-2 grades higher than their current grade
- For students needing additional support and intervention, we have certified professionals on staff including a Reading Specialist, Speech and Language Pathologist and tutoring services available.
- To ensure a healthy school culture with a focus on social and emotional learning, we have a full-time School Guidance Counselor
- Monthly community service projects and collection drives to support many charitable organizations including St. Vincent de Paul, Chandler Police Department, Maggie`s Place andPaz De Cristo.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does St. Mary-basha Catholic School cost?
St. Mary-basha Catholic School's tuition is approximately $6,200 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of St. Mary-basha Catholic School?
The acceptance rate of St. Mary-basha Catholic School is 90%, which is higher than the national average of 88%.
What sports does St. Mary-basha Catholic School offer?
St. Mary-basha Catholic School offers 6 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Flag Football, Soccer, Softball and Volleyball.
What is St. Mary-basha Catholic School's ranking?
St. Mary-basha Catholic School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Arizona for: Largest student body and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for St. Mary-basha Catholic School?
The application deadline for St. Mary-basha Catholic School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 6/21/2024
St Mary-Basha Catholic school is a hidden gem in downtown Chandler! For 80 years it has been educating the student in the Catholic faith as well as exceptional academics. We have been attending SMB for over 10 years, and we couldn't be happier. The students consistently test the highest among catholic schools in the diocese of Phoenix. Weekly curriculum includes art, Spanish, PE, science and music. Extra-curricular activities are available for EVERY interest! Band, theater, choir, orchestra, chess, robotics, ballet, sports, STEM, to name a few. Junior high students can choose from many electives, such as forensic science, anatomy and physiology, personal finance, sewing, improvisation, screen writing, and many, many others!The teachers are exceptional and truly care about the success of EACH and every student. My older children are academically doing well, and were challenged by SMB's curriculum. They are now succeeding in a Catholic high school. My younger children struggled to return to grade level after Covid-19 quarantine (SMB returned to in-person option in Aug of 2020, thank goodness!) The teachers and support staff dedicated much time to getting my children back up to par. I was touched! The school has math and reading specialists and a counselor present on campus.The students practice the sacraments regularly; they attend mass at least weekly, as well as regular confession and adoration. Priests can be seen regularly attending morning prayer, and the sisters are employees of the school as teachers, school nurse and playground monitors. I love having religious priests and nuns present daily in the students' school day. The principal is a phenomenal leader! Lastly, the parent community is unbeatable; very supportive of each other and prays for the students, staff and each other with weekly rosaries and monthly adoration, and bible studies. It is worth your time to visit this school in person. You will be blown away!
5 1/19/2022
We couldn't be more thrilled with our children's school. That faculty and staff truly care for each child and are committed to keeping them at school and learning. The community is wonderful and supportive. The school has gone through a few principals in the past few years, but the new administrator is wonderful. She genuinely cares about all the students and teachers and you can see it through the way she interacts with them. She also has a vision for the school and works well with the pastor to see it come to light. We highly recommend SMB for any family who is looking for a small-town feel in a big city. You won't be disappointed.
5 5/4/2016
Within 1 yr of making the switch to private school I have seen my daughter change, not only as a child who now loves school but as a member of the community. She has learned so much from her Teacher, Mrs. Richard, that I don't think I could thank her enough.
Endorse St. Mary-basha Catholic School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Early Childhood Education Approaches: A Guide for Parents of 1 and 2 Year Olds
In this article we explore three popular approaches to early childhood education: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf. It provides parents of toddlers with essential information about each method, helping them make informed decisions about their child's early education.
Making the Right Choice: A Parent's Guide to Private School Selection
We explore the reasons to consider private school education, compares boarding and day school options, and outlines essential factors in choosing the right school. It provides parents with valuable insights to make informed decisions about their child's education, drawing from real-world scenarios and expert advice.
Navigating Private School Finances: A Parent's Guide
This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of private school tuition and financing options. Divided into three chapters, it covers understanding private school tuition, various payment methods, and seven specific options for managing educational expenses. The article aims to provide parents and guardians with valuable insights and practical strategies to make private education more accessible and affordable.