Grant Request Marian Middle School

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Marian Middle School
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 4130 Wyoming Street
City: Saint Louis
State: MO
Postal Code: 63116
Main Phone: 314-771-7674
Main Fax: 314-771-7679
Organization Website: https://marianmiddleschool.org/
Employer ID Number: 43-1873629
Organization Tax Status: Tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: 03/28/2024
Requested Amount: $7381

Project Title: Light Her Way – Scholarship for Low Income Girls of Color
Project Description:

Marian Middle School was founded by seven communities of Catholic sisters who believed that getting a quality education should not be limited to one’s income. They opened a NativityMiguel model school which serves poor and marginalized girls, provides a holistic and faith-based education, partners with students’ families, extends the school day and year, and commits beyond graduation. Today, Marian is the only all-girls private middle school in the Greater St. Louis community serving urban adolescent youth in a faith-based environment.

Although our name suggests that we only educate middle school girls, our journey continues with our graduates well beyond their middle school years. Marian supports and guides our graduates in high school and postsecondary programs followed by career success – it’s an amazing experience for 11 or more years. Now in our 24th school year, we proudly claim 329 alumnae, a 100% high school graduation rate, a 93% college enrollment rate, and 77 college graduates.

In 2024, 89% of Marian students are living in poverty and 95% are girls of color. To counter the interconnected challenges Marian girls face from living in poverty, Marian is preparing our students for 21st century careers which require mastery of STEM through an innovative curriculum that combines multidisciplinary and hands-on learning. Through talented teachers and individualized attention, Marian Girls can graduate at or above grade level, prepared for the rigors of high-performing high schools.

Although families are only able to pay an average of $500 annually, we invest $14,762 into each child to ensure they get a transformative education. As the ripple effect of the pandemic continues to be felt, institutions that have historically supported minorities are closing their doors due to funding challenges. We respectfully request a $7,381 grant from the Hermanowski Family Foundation to give families a sustainable, quality option.

Total Project Budget: $1,057,077

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): We offer our innovative approach with sustainability; however, we do not receive United Way or Archdiocesan funding. Our only public funding is support from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for meals and snacks. For 24 years, Marian has been able to provide students with academic, enrichment and graduate support programming thanks to the generosity of individuals, foundations, and corporations that believe in its mission.

Project Duration: July 2024 – June 2025
Geographical Area Served: Greater St. Louis Region (Missouri & Illinois)
Age Group To Be Served: 10-13 years old

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Mary Elizabeth
Contact Last Name: Grimes
Contact Title: President
Contact Phone: 314-771-7674
Contact Email: mgrimes@mms-stl.org