Celebrating 75 Years of Excellence

Image: St. Martha Catholic School
This year marks a significant milestone in the life of the St. Martha parish and school family, the 75th Anniversary of St. Martha Catholic School. The school opened its doors in 1950 as the first school to offer a Catholic School education in Sarasota and for three-quarters of a century has nurtured young hearts and minds, forming generations in faith, knowledge and service.
Under the leadership and vision of the beloved Father Fausto Stampiglia for many years, and now the dear Father George Suszko, St. Martha Catholic School has provided challenging academics to thousands upon thousands of students in Pre-K through 8th Grade. In an effort to serve God and the community, students, staff and families work together to maintain high academic standards, develop Christ-centered relationships, and provide stewardship to Sarasota and the surrounding areas.

Image: St. Martha Catholic School
With a philosophy of Strength in Faith, Excellence In Knowledge and Character In Service, St. Martha Catholic School is dedicated to nurturing the whole child - socially, emotionally, spiritually, and academically - equipping students for the challenges of high school and beyond. Students display their strength in faith through spiritual growth and development, and moral decision-making; their excellence in knowledge through their lifelong pursuit and scholarly approach to learning; and a commitment to peace and social justice, by responding to a call to servant leadership within the church and community.
The dedicated Faculty and Staff at St. Martha, led by Principal Mari Jo Hanson and Assistant Principal Elizabeth Davis, is a group of outstanding individuals, who truly believe in the mission of the school, and work each day to prepare students for the next steps in their educational endeavors, guide them in their faith journey, and provide them with the tools necessary for finding their way in the world.

Image: St. Martha Catholic School
As a leader in technology integration, all classrooms are equipped with ViewSonic Panels and all students have a Chromebook, as well as access to a variety of technology tools and resources. Students participate in weekly Art, Music, PE, Spanish, Library and Mass. Middle School students choose Electives within their schedules.
Outside of the classroom, extracurricular activities and athletics include: School Store, Student Council, Choir, NJHS, Altar Servers, Safety Patrol, Christmas Program, Spring Musical, Basketball, Volleyball, Flag Football, Soccer, Tennis and Golf.

Image: St. Martha Catholic School
To celebrate this beautiful legacy, The 75th Anniversary Diamond Gala will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at the school. This will be an elegant and joyful event filled with community, laughter, and purpose to honor the past, celebrate the present, and invest in the future of St. Martha Catholic School. Festivities begin with an exclusive VIP Reception, offering a special opportunity to mingle and connect before the main event.
The celebration continues with guests enjoying a gourmet dinner, thrilling live entertainment by The Hype, and the warmth of a community united in purpose. The evening will also feature live and silent auctions with exclusive items and experiences, paddle raises, and an exciting raffle with fantastic prizes.

Image: St. Martha Catholic School
All proceeds from the 75th Anniversary Diamond Gala will go directly towards school enhancements, such as updated classroom furnishings and essential facility upgrades to improve the learning environments for the students, ensuring that the legacy of St. Martha continues to thrive for future generations. In honoring these 75 Years of Excellence, the St. Martha Catholic School family is filled with gratitude, faith, and hope for all that lies ahead.