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Providing students of modest economic means with a college preparatory education aimed at helping young men and women develop the habits of mind and spirit that will enable them to be successful in college, in their careers, and in life.

Providing meaningful opportunities for professionals to interact with and mentor students while making a difference in their lives. Over 100 Cleveland-area businesses, firms, and non-profits have partnered with Saint Martin.

Saint Martin invites students into our school community who are committed to academic, spiritual, social, emotional, and physical growth. During the admissions process, Saint Martin reviews academic, disciplinary, and attendance records, as well as teacher recommendations.

While we are serious about preparing students for college and career success, we also believe that school should be fun! Caring for the whole student, we believe that involvement in extracurriculars is essential to continuing to form talented, well-rounded, and interesting individuals.

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Alumni Spotlight: Shila Richard '09

First generation college student, Shila Richard ‘09, has been giving back to her community since her graduation. After completing high school at Saint Martin, Shila attended Cleveland State University, and graduated in 2012 with a double major in psychology and criminology. But she didn’t stop there! Shila recently returned to Cleveland State University to obtain her Master’s in Public Administration in December 2020.

Now as an Intake Specialist and Program Coordinator for the Domestic Relations Court, Shila has two main responsibilities at her job. These include assisting victims with protection orders as well as overseeing and administering the Families First Program, which helps families with children to receive mental health and substance abuse disorder resources when they are going through a divorce or domestic violence proceeding. Shila hopes to one day be the CEO or director of a nonprofit organization or government agency.

Shila thanks Saint Martin for placing her in a position to succeed and giving her real life experience. “Growing up in the inner city, I did not have many advantages. Being part of the Saint Martin community gave me an opportunity to succeed and showed me that there was more to life than what I witnessed in my community. Even after I graduated, I was able to return to the school for support, whether it was meeting about job leads or helping me locate financial assistance. They’ve always had my back.”

Shila recalls working several jobs through the Corporate Work Study Program, from hospitals to retailers, learning many skills, which all still come in handy today. Because of her work study experience, she knew how to conduct herself in a work environment, gained both mental and professional tools for her future, and got advice from supervisors and co-workers on college and careers.

Highlights of Shila’s high school days were the relationships, rapport, and support that she gained from her teachers and guidance counselors. This carried her through high school and helped her grow both academically and personally. As Shila continues helping the community, she remembers all that Saint Martin has helped her with. “I would encourage anyone to take advantage of the opportunities that Saint Martin offers. It will change your life.

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