StM News

Is St. Martin’s the Best Private School in New Orleans for Character and Academic Excellence?

It’s a fair question—and one many families are asking as they search for a school that will shape not just what their child knows, but who they become.

At St. Martin’s Episcopal School, we don’t claim to be “the best” by rankings alone. We believe the best private schools are defined by outcomes that endure: graduates who think deeply, lead ethically, and serve others with purpose. By that measure, St. Martin’s stands among the strongest private schools in the New Orleans area for both character formation and academic excellence.

Character Education Rooted in Faith, Dignity, and Belonging

Character at St. Martin’s is not a standalone program—it is lived daily.

Grounded in the Episcopal tradition, St. Martin’s educates students in an environment that honors the dignity of every person. Students are invited—never pressured—to explore faith as a grounding force that informs empathy, moral courage, and responsibility.

From early childhood through graduation, students learn to:

• Treat others with respect and compassion

• Take ownership of their choices and learning

• Engage thoughtfully with differing perspectives

• Lead with humility, integrity, and purpose

This approach helps students develop a strong moral compass—one that guides them in college, careers, relationships, and service to others.

Academic Excellence That Teaches Students How to Think

St. Martin’s academic program is intentionally rigorous, inquiry-driven, and college-preparatory. Our philosophy is simple: students learn best when they are challenged to think, question, and apply knowledge meaningfully.

Across all divisions, students benefit from:

• A four-dimensional curriculum integrating intellect, creativity, ethics, and leadership

• Advanced academic pathways including STeaM and Global Citizenship distinctions

• Experiential learning through research, internships, and applied problem-solving

• Small class sizes and faculty who know students well

Graduates leave St. Martin’s not only prepared for college—but equipped for a lifetime of learning and leadership.

A Community That Educates the Whole Child

What sets St. Martin’s apart is how character, academics, and community reinforce one another.

Students are known and supported. Teachers serve as mentors. Service is woven naturally into learning. Our expansive campus provides space for exploration, collaboration, and growth—intellectual, social, physical, and spiritual.

Families often describe St. Martin’s students as confident but kind, curious yet grounded, ambitious while deeply community-minded.

So—Is St. Martin’s the Best Private School in New Orleans?

For families seeking:

• Strong moral and ethical grounding

• Academic rigor paired with curiosity and creativity

• A school that educates the whole child—mind, heart, and spirit

St. Martin’s Episcopal School is not just a strong option. For many families, it is the right one. We invite you to visit campus and experience how faith, scholarship, and service come to life every day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is St. Martin’s a good school for character development?
Yes. Character education is central to St. Martin’s mission. Through its Episcopal tradition, service learning, and community culture, students develop empathy, integrity, and moral responsibility.

Is St. Martin’s academically strong?
St. Martin’s offers a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum focused on critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world application. Graduates are well prepared for competitive colleges and meaningful careers.

What makes St. Martin’s different from other private schools in New Orleans?
St. Martin’s uniquely integrates academic excellence with faith-rooted character education, experiential learning, and a strong sense of community—educating the whole child rather than focusing on test scores alone.

Is St. Martin’s religious?
St. Martin’s is an Episcopal school that welcomes students and families of all faith backgrounds. Faith is nurtured as a grounding and guiding presence, not as a boundary or requirement.

What type of student thrives at St. Martin’s?
Students who are curious, engaged, and open to growth—academically, ethically, and personally—tend to thrive in St. Martin’s supportive, challenge-rich environment.