Our History

Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) Parish was founded in 1956 by Bishop Francis Hyland, the first bishop of Atlanta. In an effort to provide an excellent Catholic education for this parish, Monsignor Cornelius Maloney, the first IHM pastor, founded a parish school. The Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart were asked to staff the school.  Sister Gerald Ann Higgins was named the first principal.

When the school opened its doors in August 1958, it welcomed 238 students in grades 1-7.  An 8th grade was added the following year. By 1969 the growth of the school called for the construction of a new wing, the Middle School annex, with additional classrooms, a library and a gym. The Kindergarten program was introduced the same year. Two years later, in 1971, IHM School was fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

The rapid growth of the parish and school demanded the expansion and modernization of the IHM campus. The 1990s was a decade of new construction for the school and refurbishing for the church. Renovations included a new school library and administrative offices.

The most recent decade has been full of accomplishments as well. In the 2018-2019 school year, we celebrated our 60th anniversary as a vibrant church and school community!  And, in 2019 we received our 2nd Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award. The computer lab and library are home to a 3-D printer, VR goggles and a broadcast studio.  Enhancements to the cafeteria include a new kitchen and the hiring of a chef who prepares meals daily. Our expansive playground equipment, soccer field, gaga-pit and outdoor basketball court make playing outside a favorite activity for the students. In 2021, IHM welcomed its first Pre-K classrooms to the campus!  IHM continues to identify ways to ensure its students are active and engaged.  

IHM School is accredited through Cognia, the parent company of SACS and has been twice recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education. 

We welcome you to schedule a tour to learn more about our wonderful school and community. Contact admissions@ihmschool.org for more information.