Traditions

Traditions play an important role in sharing and passing on a place's identity and values. They can foster a sense of community, encourage school spirit, and serve as a source of pride. Our school has many beloved traditions, some of which date back to its first decade. In all divisions students, teachers, and families are encouraged to participate in and support our traditions. These range from George Cottage Community Night to Lower School Carnival Day to Middle School Elizabethan Day to the Upper School Ring Day.

Alma Mater

Written during the first decades of the school the Alma Mater is a touchstone that is never forgotten by those in our community. The musical arrangement was created by alumnae Eugenie Rocherolle '54, who went on to become a nationally recognized composer. Her mother, a St. Martin's faculty member, Katherine S. Ricau, wrote the lyrics. At Chapel services, assemblies, pep rallies, and more, St. Martin's students, faculty, and staff close out their gatherings by locking arms and singing the words of St. Martin's Alma Mater:

This is our Alma Mater; forever it will remain.
We’ll be faithful, and keep her honor;
We’re proud to claim her name.
No matter where e’er life’s cares may drive us,
Her teachings will be there to guide us.
Long live our dear St. Martin’s that we cherish and we love.

Homecoming

One of our school’s oldest traditions is Homecoming, which has been celebrated in some form since the 1950s. Today, the entire school is involved in this salute to our community and, in particular, StM Athletics. Homecoming week is full of activities throughout the campus. To accommodate our littlest saints in the George Cottage, our Cheerleaders visit for a mini pep rally. The Upper School student government hosts a spirited Homecoming competition between classes that involves themed decorations, dress-up days, and challenges. 

Before the game, the entire St. Martin’s community gathers for the annual Fall Fellowship Cookout – hosted by the Alumni Association and the parents' group, the Saints Community Organization. During the Homecoming football game, the Homecoming Court is presented. The next evening, Upper School students continue the Homecoming festivities with a dance where a Homecoming king and queen are crowned. 

Naturally, St. Martin’s Alumni are welcomed back to campus for Homecoming. During Homecoming week, the school inducts the newest members of the Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame. Many classes host reunions at the Fall Fellowship and alumni enjoy a special seating section at the Homecoming football game.

St. Martin's Day

Each November, the Episcopal Church celebrates the feast day of St. Martin de Tours. In one of the most cherished traditions on our school calendar, the entire student body of St. Martin’s celebrates our school’s namesake and patron saint, St. Martin de Tours.

St. Martin’s Episcopal School first celebrated the day in the 1950s, and the tradition has evolved throughout the years. Woven throughout the fun-filled day are the three tenets of the school’s mission – Faith, Scholarship, and Service. 

The opening chapel service represents ‘faith.’ The discovery hunt, which encourages students to work together and learn more about their school and community, emphasizes ‘scholarship.’ As the entire student body works toward the goal of supporting a chosen charity, they practice ‘service.’ 

The festivities open with an all-school Eucharistic Celebration including a declaration from the Head of School and an address from the Upper School Student Government President. St. Martin’s Day is not only a fitting observance of the school’s patron saint, but also a beautiful celebration of the school’s diverse, strong, generous, and thriving community.