Marianist Identity: Education is a key element of the Marianist mission and has been from the start. STVM is one of 19 secondary schools and three universities under the Marianist Sponsorship in the United States. The Marianist sponsor schools all over the world.

What does it mean to be a Marianist-sponsored school? It means that administration, teaching and learning are focused around five "Characteristics of Marianist Education."

"Educate for Formation in Faith" - STVM students are educated in the Roman Catholic faith and its intellectual tradition. Our faith is grounded in both faith and reason and our school's Mission is rooted in the gospel. As the foundational Marianist Characteristic, where all other Characteristics of Marianist Education stand, Educating for Formation in Faith guides students to develop a Christian anthropology, where every individual is made in image and likeness of God, and a Christian worldview that will cultivate a life of virtue. The practice of Christian virtue will direct our STVM students in their daily activities, develop their faith, and give their life meaning. In the practice of Christian virtue, students are guided to find meaning for life. Students discover Jesus Christ's love for them and look to Mary as a model of faithful discipleship and through transformational encounters with Christ, become intentional disciples.

"Provide an Integral, Quality Education" - In the spirit of the Gospel, STVM is committed to educate the whole person; to lead and to serve; enlightening the mind, developing the body, touching the heart, and inspiring the soul. Students mature in body, mind, and spirit. STVM students are viewed as a child of God who are uniquely gifted and are encouraged to cultivate their personal talents, nourishing the desire and acquiring the skills that will equip them to embark on their journeys of life-long learning. Students are encouraged to strengthen their ability to relate their real-world understanding to practical situations by helping them foster discernment, self-knowledge, discipline, critical thinking, and prudent judgment that are critical for developing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and building up the Kingdom of God and working toward the common good of all.

"Educate in Family Spirit" - STVM students embrace Mary's inspiration, fostering a Marianist Family spirit that cultivates hospitality, acceptance, and love. They learn to create a gracious environment, excel in teaching, thinking, organizing, and celebrating each other with compassion. Our focus on personal and communal reflection and responsibility guides students towards growth, development, and a fulfilling way of life.

"Educate for Service, Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation" - STVM students learn about the Church's social teachings to join in facing the urgent challenge of bringing about compassion, justice, optimism, peace, a respect for the dignity of human life, and care for the integrity of creation. Students learn to recognize and name both justice and oppression by prayerfully seeking the will of God through Mary's prophetic action at the Wedding Feast of Cana, and cultivate creative solutions for the social and moral problems of our day and seek to promote positive and lasting change.

"Educate for Adaptation and Change" - STVM students are invited to mirror Mary's cooperation with the Holy Spirit, view their lives in relationship to God's will, and be open to follow Mary's command to the servants at the Wedding Feast of Cana to, "Do whatever he tells you." (John 2:5) STVM students are encouraged and given opportunities to develop the abilities to understand change and to adapt and promote the skills that are required to create effective and lasting positive changes.