St. Matthew School (officially “Saint Matthew School”) is a private Catholic elementary school located at 3040 Cottman Avenue, Mayfair, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the northeast section of the city. The school was founded in September 1937, when the first Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary arrived to staff the school, following the laying of the original school cornerstone on October 4, 1936.

The school is part of St. Matthew Parish, which was established on October 12, 1927. Today, Saint Matthew School is one of the largest Catholic elementary schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, with a current enrollment of 795–880+ students, maintaining a 20:1 student-teacher ratio across grades Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8.

The school has a distinguished history of over 10,000 alumni and alumnae, and holds accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. It has been recognised by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia as a “Philadelphia Great School”, receiving its highest ratings in academics, safety, and attendance.

Leadership

St. Matthew School is led by Principal Sister Joseph Marie Carter. The school maintains a commitment to non-discrimination, admitting students of any race, sex, colour, national and ethnic origin, ancestry, religion, or disability to all rights, privileges, programmes, and activities.

Catholic Identity and Mission

As a parish school within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, St. Matthew School integrates Catholic faith formation with academic excellence. The school fosters an atmosphere of love and respect, encouraging an understanding of students as unique individuals and respecting the diversity of each other’s talents and gifts. The school’s motto — #ThisIsSMS and #RaisingtheBar on its official social channels — reflects a commitment to excellence and community pride in the Mayfair neighbourhood.

Academic Programmes

St. Matthew School offers a comprehensive curriculum from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8, covering:

• Core academics: English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies
• Religious Education — integrated throughout the curriculum as part of the school’s Catholic mission
• Arts and extracurricular activities: the school is known for a rich range of co-curricular offerings
• Catholic Schools Week observances, typically held in late January, celebrate Catholic education community-wide across the Archdiocese

Contact Information

St. Matthew School Calendar 2026-2027 — Key Dates

St. Matthew School is a private Catholic school within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and sets its own academic calendar, which may differ slightly from the Philadelphia public school district calendar. For the most accurate and up-to-date school-specific dates, always confirm directly with the school office or via the official calendar at stmatthewmayfair.org.

As a reference point, the School District of Philadelphia 2026-2027 calendar provides the broader Philadelphia area academic framework:

Note: St. Matthew School is a private Catholic school and sets its own calendar independently of the Philadelphia public school district. The dates above reflect the broader Philadelphia area academic framework as a general reference.

Families should always confirm the exact St. Matthew School calendar directly at stmatthewmayfair.org or by contacting the school office at (215) 333-3142, as Catholic schools in the Archdiocese may observe additional religious holidays, professional development days, or modified schedules.

Last verified: 06 July 2026. Official source: St. Matthew School Mayfair — Official School Website and School District of Philadelphia — Academic Calendar

Enrollment

Enrollment at St. Matthew School is open for 2026-2027. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis year-round, with priority given to parish families and those in the school’s service area. Required documents typically include proof of age (birth certificate), immunisation records, and previous school reports where applicable. Families interested in enrolling can contact the school directly at (215) 333-3142 or visit stmatthewmayfair.org for the latest enrollment information.

Catholic Schools Week 2027

Catholic Schools Week — the annual national celebration of Catholic education in the United States — is scheduled from Sunday 31 January through Saturday 6 February 2027, with “Discover Catholic Schools Week” activities running Sunday 15 November through Saturday 21 November 2026. St. Matthew School typically observes Catholic Schools Week with special events, Masses, open houses, and community celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of school is St. Matthew School, Philadelphia?

It is a private Catholic elementary school serving grades Pre-K through Grade 8, part of St. Matthew Parish in the Mayfair neighbourhood of northeast Philadelphia, within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

How large is St. Matthew School?

The school has approximately 795-880+ students, making it one of the largest Catholic elementary schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

Who is the Principal?

Sister Joseph Marie Carter serves as Principal.

When was St. Matthew School founded?

The school opened in September 1937, following the establishment of St. Matthew Parish in October 1927.

Who do I contact for enrollment or school-specific queries?

Contact the school at (215) 333-3142 (ext. 306 for the main office) or visit stmatthewmayfair.org.

Related Pennsylvania / USA School Calendars

• Camden City School District Calendar (New Jersey, nearby region)
• Old Bridge Public Schools Calendar (New Jersey)
• Newark Public Schools Calendar (New Jersey)