Mary Innes School is where the educational experience begins for our district’s children. We host the preschool program as well as the district’s fulltime kindergarten classes, in a well maintained, historic 1920 building located near downtown.

Many other needs of the Dillon Elementary District are met at the Mary Innes too. It is home to the District Administration, the office of the Special Programs Director, and provides space for the storage of classroom materials, equipment, and custodial supplies. A beneficial partnership also exists with Yellowstone Boy’s and Girl’s Ranch and with the Head Start Program, both of which are housed at Mary Innes and both of whom provide services necessary to the success of the district.

The Head Start Program benefits many children throughout the community, giving them an added boost prior to beginning their formal education. The staff at Mary Innes works closely with Head Start in coordinating the various educational services needed for these children. The lease agreement with Head Start also assists in paying for many of the costs associated with operating the Mary Innes School, a welcome arrangement in these “cash strapped” times.

Yellowstone Boy’s and Girl’s Ranch provides services through the Comprehensive School and Community Treatment (CSCT) program for School District #10. YBGR’s therapists and behavioral specialists work with students throughout the district, providing counseling support and assistance above and beyond what can be offered by our school counselors, at no cost. As a commitment to this program, School District #10 supplies YBGR’s specialists and counselors with office space and computer access.

The staff of Mary Innes has a common vision for all of its children, “A person is a person no matter how small and will be treated respectfully by one and by all.” Along with this common vision, the MI staff has developed a mission statement to support the vision. This mission states, “We, the staff of the Mary Innes School, believe that each student belongs and has the right to feel safe, respected, and successful. We are committed to creating a caring place where children are encouraged to pursue a love of learning.” This mission is underpinned by our written and expressed goals which are displayed throughout the building and expressed daily: Be kind; Be respectful; Be responsible; Be a thinker; Be positive.

I feel very fortunate to be the principal of the Mary Innes School. I look forward to meeting and getting to know each of the parents whose children attend our school. Please be assured that the staff at the Mary Innes is a great group of professionals and that we are committed to providing your children with the best experience possible. Stop by and see what a great school this truly is.

Glen A. Johnson, Ed. D.