St. Margaret Mary Catholic School has a rich and enduring history that spans over a century, rooted in the unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional Catholic education to children. Established in 1921 and taught by the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, this Catholic elementary school part of the Omaha Archdiocese has been serving the Omaha, Nebraska community for generations.
From its humble beginnings, with just two rooms, the school started with two dedicated Sisters of Mercy teaching 40 students across four grade levels. This new school and parish structure on 50th and California Streets opened in 1921 and immediately the growth and success of the school were evident. This two-story brick building featured three classrooms on the main level and a church on the second floor, providing an ideal environment for education and worship.
Under the guidance of Monsignor Joseph Suneg, a talented woodcarver who became the pastor and administrator in 1924, the school and parish continued to grow and thrive. By 1931, enrollment had reached one hundred sixty pupils, and thirteen students proudly graduated from St. Margaret Mary Catholic School, marking the early milestones of educational excellence and spiritual formation.
Monsignor Suneg opened the doors of the present school building on 62nd and Dodge Streets in 1951 and stayed until his retirement in 1969.
Campus Improvements
A 2 ½ year renovation and expansion project of the school and parish began in 1996, with school improvements including mechanical and electrical renovation. The project added an elevator, administrative offices, two computer labs, a new resource library, a music room, a science lab, and made accommodations for handicap accessibility.
In 2007, a geothermal heating and air conditioning system, plus new thermal paned windows were added to the school building.
During the summer of 2018, the front school offices were renovated to make a dedicated space for an Assistant Principal. The hand-carved woodwork from the front lobby area was saved and replaced on the new walls. Framed collaborative works created by SMM 7th and 8th graders, depicting Mary, Jesus, and the Sacred Heart, hang on the walls.
Over the 2018 summer, the former apartment space on the 2nd level was renovated. The apartment space originally provided housing for nuns who taught at the school. The former apartment space was transformed into a large classroom. Students enjoy the space which offers natural light from the east and west-facing windows.
Omaha Community
As one of 28 elementary metropolitan schools of the Archdiocese of Omaha, Nebraska, St. Margaret Mary serves the needs of over 500 students from its location in the central part of the city.
The foundation for such interaction is the St. Margaret Mary parish community, committed both spiritually and financially to the achievement of this philosophy. Our desire is to encourage each member of the Saint Margaret Mary community to become personally responsible to God, self, family, and country. Within this environment, it is the purpose of St. Margaret Mary School to produce happy, successful, active members of the Body of Christ and the community.
In 2008 St. Margaret Mary School was designated a Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. In 2022 St. Margaret Mary School earned Cognia Advanced Ed accreditation.
Commitment to Excellence in Education 
With a century of history behind it, St. Margaret Mary Catholic School at 123 N. 61st Street stands as a testament to the excellent education it has consistently provided. The school's architectural beauty remains as captivating today as it was when it first opened its doors in the 1950s at its current location. However, the true greatness of the school lies not only in its physical structure but in the collective efforts of its dedicated teachers, caring parents, devoted administration, and strong collaboration with the Parish. The strong community connection between parents, teachers, and parishioners fosters a sense of unity and support that is truly remarkable. Today, the school continues to educate approximately 500 students each year, and its alumni continue to make a positive impact in the Omaha community and beyond, a testament to the enduring quality of the education provided at St. Margaret Mary Catholic School.