Welcome to Mater Christi School

Welcome to Mater Christi School and thank you for your interest in our school.  Choosing the best school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make as parents.  Since 1953, parents who have chosen Mater Christi School have valued their child’s experience of an outstanding academic foundation provided in a faith-based environment, guidance based on strong moral and ethical values, and the attention of caring teachers in a supportive community.

Students smiling holding banner of Mater Christi School

Our Mission

Mater Christi School, a Catholic community guided by the teachings of Jesus, is dedicated to the development of Spirituality, Community and Scholarship. We seek to enhance each child’s God-given gifts so that they may use those talents for service to God and others.

Mater Christi Message

For over 60 years, Mater Christi School has been committed to excellence, and as Principal I am proud and pleased to share with you the many wonderful facets of our school.  We at Mater Christi School live a mission that is focused on recognizing and developing each child’s talents and interests as we foster a love of learning that creates confident, independent, lifelong learners.    

Mater Christi School is a unique blend of tradition and innovation.  We are blessed to be able to draw on the knowledge and expertise of our many experienced teachers, while benefitting from the new ideas and technological savvy that our newer teachers infuse into our school.  This remarkable collaboration establishes a firm foundation of skills in the primary grades, which enables students to soar and explore in the middle school grades, and flourish as they move on to high school.  

Our school climate is affirming, nurturing and comfortable. Everyone knows everyone in this small community.  Dedication and caring are the hallmarks of the faculty and staff.  Teachers focus on creating a learning environment that is challenging and supporting of each individual.  

Our curriculum fosters the intellectual, physical, and spiritual development of students and incorporates technology as an essential tool for learning.  Through ongoing professional development, our faculty is kept up-to-date on the Common Core Curriculum changes evolving in NYS, and our students’ scores consistently demonstrate achievement of these learning standards.  

Essential 21st century skills of critical thinking, communication, and collaboration are woven into the learning experience.  A wide range of innovative activities complements the academic program and increases opportunities for competition, collaboration, public speaking, performance, and leadership.  We encourage our children to question and grow, to care and lead as they develop into well-prepared, contributing, and confident members of our world and church.

As we welcome our preschoolers at the beginning of each year, we see the potential of every student and embrace their world of wonder and curiosity.  Through the years, we nurture and guide them with a curriculum that is both challenging and supportive, encouraging them to strive for their very best.  As we proudly watch our 8th graders graduate at the end of each year, we see before us confident young men and women ready to meet the challenges of high school and beyond.  It is a joy to watch this transformation and I hope that as you are considering where your child will spend these very important years, you will join us and discover what a great place Mater Christi School is to learn and grow.

Testimonials

“We looked at every elementary school in the Capital District and decided that Mater Christi School offered the best combination of caring and one-on-one attention, challenging academics and a focus on character development.  We continue to be impressed with the many opportunities for children of all ages to practice leadership skills.  This focus on leadership has provided our children with many growth opportunities and some great role models.”

Carolyn and Mark Ustin, parents

“After relocating to the area and visiting several schools, we decided on Mater Christi School.  The nurturing parish-school community, and the warm reception by the faculty and other parents, has convinced us that we made the right choice.  Years later we are even more convinced as we become more integrated in the school and parish.  Our three boys are given specialized attention in an environment that is conducive to both academic and spiritual development that will serve them well in the future.”

Josh and Rebecca Caldon, parents

“My son transferred to Mater Christi School for 7th grade.  The transition to this small private school was surprisingly seamless.  We were welcomed wholeheartedly into the school community.  My son quickly made friends, got involved in extra-curricular activities and continued to excel academically.  We received a great deal of positive feedback from his teachers, including how much they enjoyed having him in their classes; but more importantly, my son truly was able to say how happy he was at his new school- music to my ears!”

Wendy Levey, parent

“We are thankful every day that four of our grandchildren have been able to attend Mater Christi School.  We have seen how the faculty and staff challenge their students to achieve at a very high level in a nurturing, friendly, safe, and respectful environment.  For us, Mater Christi represents the best of what schools used to be, while building a solid foundation for success in the future.”

Geri and Hank Cyr, grandparents

“Your faith and your community spirit come through in all you do.  Classrooms are alive with learning!  The integration of faith and learning was so evident.”

Sr. Margaret Mancuso, Middle States Visiting Team