The St. Louis Catholic Church congregation was continually increasing during the early 1900’s, especially the number of children.  In order to meet the needs of the parish, the Rev. Clement Johannes and  parishioners felt  it was imperative that a school building program be initiated.   The construction of St. Louis School & Convent began in the spring of 1916 and was completed in 1917 at a cost of $26,000.  Formal classes began in September of 1917 under the leadership of  six sisters from The School Sisters of Notre Dame. The school had an open enrollment policy with children from many ethnic backgrounds. There was an initial enrollment of 120 students which increased to 180 during the 2nd semester of that first school year.
 
By 1918, the third floor of the convent was furnished for girls to room and board.  In October of that year, the never to be forgotten epidemic of influenza spread over the country and schools were closed for a month.  By 1931, Monsignor Johannes announced that due to financial problems the school might have to be closed.   However, through hard work and sacrifice the parish managed to keep the school open.
 
In 1943, Fr. John J. Hogan introduced a new curriculum, a pre-primer class (Kindergarten) at St. Louis School.  Margorie Coady was also hired as the first lay teacher in 1949  to teach 3rd grade. In the summer 1952 a  hard surface playground (100’ by 100’) was built.    By 1953 the school had secured the services of two young men to start a basketball program.  In November of 1954 the first band was organized. St. Louis School thrived during the 1950’s and 1960’s with the highest enrollment of 214 students during the 1960-61 school year.
 
As time passed so did the need for increased space for the parish and school.  Fr. Joseph Murray lead the development of plans  for a new parish center/gymnasium and by 1971 the building was completed.  Until the parish center was completed the parish relied upon the South Public School for any major functions.  It should be noted that St. Louis School has always and continues to have a excellent relationship with the Nokomis Public School District # 22. St. Louis School  has been blessed to have this wonderful relationship.
 
It became apparent in the late 1980’s that the physical school building and convent needed major repair or renovation to be brought up to date for the current needs of the students. Through the leadership of Fr. Richard Chiola, Fr. John Burnett and a Gift Fund Committee, a plan was developed and a major renovation was under taken.  Construction began in 1989. The convent was demolished fred and modernized, as well as a new structure being built and attached to the old school were the convent was removed.  The renovated St. Louis School was dedicated in 1990 and is now a modern facility prepared for the student’s needs of the 21st Century. The new school has up to date facilities that are second to none.  This again all came about because of the hard work and sacrifices of the members of St. Louis Church.om the school structure.  The old school structure was completely renovated.