1970 -- Increasing costs of education led to financial crisis. The parish assembled to consider whether they could continue to operate both the elementary and the secondary schools. The parish renewed its commitment to K through 12 education. The entire O'Neill community rose to the challenge and raised funds of $40,000. An ANNUAL AUCTION was established after that which has grown to proceeds of sixty to seventy thousand dollars yearly in support of St. Mary's schools.

1971 - St. Mary's initiated an individualized non-graded program (IGE).

1975 - DIAMOND JUBILEE. Many alumni return to celebrate.

1977 - ST. MARY'S FOUNDATION is established to provide endowment funds.