St. Benedict School

        In the summer of 1885, five Sisters of Mercy from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, came to Decorah to open the Order's first school outside of the Cedar Rapids area. Located on John Street in a building now converted to apartments, the school was originally known as Immaculate Conception Academy, and provided a Catholic education to both grade and high school students.

        The change to the present grade school status was made in 1919, and a full curriculum along with the music and other activities was offered to the students. By the early 1960s, it became apparent that the building was no longer suitable for educational purposes, and planning began for a new school building.

        Fourteen acres of land were purchased on the south end of town, and classes began in the new building in the fall of 1964. In 1985, during the Centennial Celebration of the school's existence, a four room addition was dedicated, which included a music and band room. A Sister of Mercy served as principal of the school until the retirement of Sr. Francesca Oldham in 1998. Lay principals and teachers have staffed the school, and continue to do so until the present day.

        A kindergarten program was added in the fall of 1996, and a pre-school program was started in the year 2000. A new addition was constructed in 2001 to house a Media Center and computer lab which is dedicated to Charles and Norma Stortz and was gift in their memory from their son.

        Presently, the school offers a complete program of Catholic education for students from pre-school years through the eight grade. Music, art, TAG, and additional learning experiences are also available for students. St. Benedict's enjoys a very cooperative partnership with both the Decorah Community Schools and Luther College, and many persons from these area schools are also involved in providing services and opportunities for the students of St. Ben's