The Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District (MSTM) is dedicated to ensuring that every graduate is truly future ready. Our mission focuses not just on equipping students with academic knowledge, but with practical skills and tangible experience that seamlessly translate to success in college, career, and life. This dedication is powerfully realized through our innovative School to Work Program.

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The School to Work Program Program is a unique collaboration, coordinated directly by the district administration and the MSTM Special Education Department. This partnership created an invaluable, in-house opportunity that places high school students into professional roles as student paraprofessionals.

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These student leaders gain essential career experience while providing crucial, compassionate support to our special education students throughout the school day. Currently, four MSTM students are successfully participating in this program, where they serve as professional role models and dedicated team members within our district.

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Jon Fitzpatrick, PK - 12 Principal at MSTM, stated that “work-based learning is about bridging the gap between theory and practice, and [our students] are crossing that bridge every single day. By stepping into the role of paraeducators, they are developing critical professional skills—adaptability, communication, and responsibility—that simply cannot be learned from a textbook.”

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The program’s success is measured not only by the skills gained by the high school students but also by the positive impact on the entire MSTM community.

Jessica Iverson, a Special Education Teacher at MSTM, affirmed the program's impact by stating that “it has created opportunities for our students to gain valuable hands-on experience while ensuring that our special education students get the proper attention. It truly creates a school community focused on inclusion."

Mr. Fitzpatrick echoed Mrs. Iverson comments by saying “the impact of this experience is reciprocal. Our younger students look up to these high schoolers as role models, creating a positive, connected dynamic in the classroom.” Fitzpatrick continued by stating that “this experience is transformative; [these four students] are learning that education is as much about connection as it is about curriculum”.

Mrs. Iverson added that the student paraprofessionals have been influential in helping a wide-range of students and serve as true role models. “Whether they are struggling with math or help with social emotional behaviors, our four student workers lead by example and truly help our PK-12 community grow,” Iverson stated.

For the high school participants, the program is a powerful career discovery tool. For current MSTM student, Sammie Blaisdell, the experience directly guided her future path.

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“This program changed my mind about wanting to be a teacher,” Sammie shared. “At first everyone was asking me if I wanted to be a teacher and I said no because I was a little nervous about the job. But as the time went on I grew to absolutely love my job and the students I work with. It made me realize that I would love to be a teacher and help kids grow throughout school.”

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The experience gives participants a substantial head start in high-demand fields such as Education, Therapy, Social Work, and Psychology.

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A key design feature of the School to Work Program is its flexibility, which allows students to manage their demanding schedules without sacrificing extracurricular involvement.

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Current MSTM students Maclaine German and Karson Oberender, both highly involved in multiple clubs and activities, highlighted this benefit. Karson stated, “With this program being during the school day, we are still able to get work experience and participate in our activities without having to choose.” Mac German echoed this sentiment, adding that the job does not add any additional stress since it “does not feel like work and I really enjoy being able to work hands-on with students.”

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Carly Krogman, current MSTM students, said that this program “makes MSTM unique because it allows us to provide students with great field experience, if they are interested in the education career, or something similar”. Krogman added that this experience allows MSTM students to get the field experience that some larger schools offer while being able to connect with students of all ages and backgrounds.

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Now in its second year, the program has doubled in size from two to four students, demonstrating its success and value.

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The lasting impact is already visible through former participants who have leveraged the experience in their post-graduation decisions. Shelby Gideon and Bethany Meyer, former MSTM students who were in the program last year and are now current MSTM staff members, cited the program's value in shaping their professional focus.

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“This program has shaped my future because it aligned my goals with my passion.” Shelby Gideon stated. Shelby Gideon added that this “program definitely helps MSTM. I think that the school to work program does a great job at allowing young staff to jump in and learn from those around them so they feel prepared [for the future”.

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Bethany Meyer echoed these statements by stating that this program helped shape her future by allowing her to gain insights into the world of education. Bethany added that this program provides “a valuable experience that translates to all workplaces”.

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The Martensdale-St. Mary's School to Work Program stands as a powerful testament to the district’s commitment to providing meaningful, applicable work experience. By placing students in roles of responsibility and mentorship, MSTM is not only meeting the immediate needs of its Special Education community but is actively fostering the next generation of compassionate, skilled leaders. This program proves that when a school community invests in its students, those students, in turn, become invaluable assets to their school and their future professions. Our students are leaving Martensdale-St. Marys not just with a diploma, but with a resume and a genuine understanding of what it takes to support diverse learners for life.

The Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District wishes all of our students, families, and staff a joyous and restful holiday season!

Please review the following important dates regarding our upcoming Winter Break schedule:

• Winter Break Begins: Tuesday, December 24, 2025
• No School: There will be no school for students from Tuesday, December 24, 2025, through Monday, January 5, 2026.

District Office Closures

Please note the following dates when the District Offices will be fully closed:

• Wednesday, December 24 through Friday, December 26, 2025
• Thursday, January 1, 2026 (New Year's Day)

School Resumes

All classes will resume on Tuesday, January 6, 2026

Have a wonderful and safe Winter Break! We look forward to seeing everyone back in 2026!

The Iowa School Performance Profile (ISPP) is a valuable online tool that shows how our public schools are performing on key measures. This system, part of the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), provides transparent and easily understandable information for families, educators, and the community.

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For the first time, the Iowa Department of Education has released a District Level Rating.

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The Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District has received a rating of Commendable with an Index Score of 67.85%.

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Earlier this fall, ratings were released for the Elementary School (Commendable) and Junior High / High School (Acceptable).

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How ISPP Ratings Work

The ISPP system assigns one of six performance ratings (index score range) to each school:

• Exceptional (78.25% and above – 2 school districts)
• High Performing (69.60% - 78.24% - 81 school districts)
• Commendable (60.95% - 69.59% - 108 school districts)
• Acceptable (52.30% - 60.94% - 100 school districts)
• Needs Improvement (42.37% - 52.29% - 30 school districts)
• Priority/Comprehensive (42.36% and below – 8 school districts)

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These ratings are based on a comprehensive set of accountability measures, which include:

• Student proficiency in English language arts, math, and science.
• Academic growth for students.
• Chronic absenteeism.
• Graduation rates (for high schools).
• Postsecondary readiness (for high schools), which measures things like college credit earned and work-based learning experiences.

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The ISPP system looks at how all students are performing, with a focus on ensuring equitable outcomes for different student groups, such as students with disabilities, English language learners, and students from different racial or ethnic backgrounds.

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You may view the report for MSTM and all school districts at Iowa School Performance Profile.

Martensdale-St. Marys (MSTM) is a student-first community minutes from the Metro, providing an exceptional education that is miles ahead in opportunity. We focus on Individualized Attention and Unmatched Value from Pre-K through 12th grade.

The MSTM Advantage

• Connected Community (PK-12): Our single-building structure ensures a supportive atmosphere where teachers know every student by name, fostering mentorship and strong relationships.
• Smarter Learning: Our innovative 4-day school week allows for focused, deeper instruction (Tuesday-Friday) and provides essential time for family, activities, and personal growth.
• Investing in Excellence: We’ve upgraded our facilities with new, modern learning spaces designed for the future, including:
  • Secure entrances and safe learning environments.
  • Renovated Science Labs.
  • A brand-new gymnasium and new softball field.

College and Career Ready

MSTM is focused on your student's future success with real-world opportunities:

• College Credit Savings: Through our partnership with DMACC, students earn valuable college credit in high school, saving over $140,910 in tuition last year alone.
• Career Readiness: Programs like iJAG (Iowa Jobs for America's Graduates) and school-to-work initiatives equip students with the skills needed for the workforce immediately after graduation.

Opportunities to Excel

We are continually expanding our offerings, including athletics and the arts, supported by a new conference affiliation and a passionate community that invests in every student's success.

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VIEW VIDEO HERE

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Choose Martensdale-St. Marys for individualized attention and unmatched value.

Contact us today to schedule a tour and see the MSTM difference!

The history of our district is deeply rooted in the St. Marys community, beginning with a dedication to education that stretches back over a century. Through the insightful research of 7th-grade student Kalvin McCullough, we celebrate the history of the earliest schools in St. Marys.

The History of the St. Marys School

By Kalvin McCullough, Current 7th Grade Student

The first school to open in St Marys was the St. Mary’s Catholic School in 1885. It opened as the first parochial school in Warren County. Most students came from out of town to attend the school so they took the local train in Sunday night, Stayed at the boarding school for the week, then returned home by train on Friday night. The school shut down in 1919 when plans to build a new school were discussed.

The St Mary’s Consolidated School was opened in September of 1921 on the east side of town. There were about 8 teachers in both high school and elementary teaching about 165 enrolled students. The first school bus for St Marys was operated by Theodore Lippold, it was simply a horse drawn wagon with 2 benches for students to sit on but on the rainy days, due to mud, students had to walk to school on foot.

After a long day of classes, students were hungry. So, local townswomen started the school lunch program in late 1945, and was known as a “type A” lunch as it met all government standards. The cooks made almost everything in the kitchen, unlike the processed food seen in schools today. Want extra? No problem, the cooks loved such a supportive audience and usually obliged.

In 1960, St. Mary’s and Martensdale had to merge due to state legislation. The school in St Marys was used as a grade school for the new district and still had the old gym, (Made in 1958.) In 1984 a bond was issued to build a new elementary wing and gym in the Martensdale school which ended the old school in St Marys. It was knocked down in 1994 and some play equipment was moved to Lake George to be enjoyed by more children. The front lawn of the school is now the city park, with the bell, flagpole, and St Marys from the top of the old school still sitting there till this day.

From the old gym to the bell in the park, our old school stands as a connection to our communities proud past. We know that it wasn’t just built with bricks and stone, but as a symbol of our communities dedication to the education of generations of the past, and to come.

We are now accepting applications for Open Enrollment for the 2026-2027 School Year.

If you live outside the boundaries of the Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District and wish to have your student be a Blue Devil next year, you must complete this application by March 2, 2026.

Download an Open Enrollment application here:

2025-2026 Open Enrollment Application

If you have questions, please contact us at 641-351-7400.

The Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District wishes all of our students, families, and staff a safe, restful, and joyous Thanksgiving Break!

Important Dates for Thanksgiving Break

Please note the following schedule for the upcoming holiday:

• Thanksgiving Break: Wednesday, November 26 – Friday, November 28
  • There will be no school for students or staff during this period.
• School Resumes: Tuesday, December 2
  • We look forward to welcoming all students back to school on this day.

District Office Closures

Please be aware of the following office schedule:

• Wednesday, November 26: All Martensdale-St. Marys CSD Offices will be CLOSED.
• Thursday, November 27 (Thanksgiving Day) & Friday, November 28: Offices will remain closed.

Regular office hours will resume when school is back in session on December 2.

We encourage everyone to use this time to connect with family and friends and enjoy a well-deserved break. Your dedication to the Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District is deeply appreciated.

The Martensdale-St. Marys Community School District has reinforced its commitment to student well-being by releasing a compelling video featuring both students and staff. The video, spearheaded by groups like the Student Council and National Honor Society, delivers a singular, crucial message to every member of the Blue Devil community: "You matter," and "Your mental health matters."

The initiative is a proactive step to ensure that all students know they have a supportive network within the school walls. The video includes messages from administration, teachers, the school nurse, and students, all emphasizing the importance of seeking help.

We encourage all students and families to view the full video to hear these important messages from our MSTM community.

YOU MATTER - MSTM MENTAL HEALTH VIDEO

Ways to Reach Out & Find Support: If you or someone you know is struggling, please utilize the resources available both at our school and in the wider community:

MSTM Guidance Counselors:

- Emily Wood (7-12 Guidance Counselor)

- Gabrielle Stonebrook (Elementary Guidance Counselor)

MSTM School Nurse:

Lynn Wente (Available by calling 641-351-7400 x526)

UnityPoint Health-Eyerly Ball Individual Counseling (As listed on the MSTM website)

External Resources: 211:

A free, comprehensive information and referral system linking Iowa residents to health and human service programs.

Your Life Iowa:

A valuable resource for mental health support.

National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) - Iowa