Welcome Harry Bassett, Director of Faith Formation & Dean of Students

Hello St. Mary’s Families!

My name is Harry Bassett IV and I am thrilled to be chosen as the new Director of Faith Formation & Dean of Students at St. Mary’s School. As a dedicated educator and fervent man of faith, I am humbled with immense feelings of joy and gratitude with the opportunity before me.

In early September, 2020, my wife, daughter, and I were all baptized in to the Catholic Church together. This day is one of the best days of my life that I can recall. Our faith journey has brought us from the beautiful Adirondack Mountains to Ballston Spa, NY. In 2021, my family and I relocated from

Ticonderoga to Ballston Spa. With unshaken faith, we are blessed to call St. Mary’s Church, home. My admiration for the school motto: “A Small School with a Big Heart” takes on true meaning to me the heart of our lord and savior, Jesus Christ. Since then the St. Mary’s community has been extremely welcoming, gracious, and kind. My wife and I are blessed with our daughter, whom has started her Kindergarten year at St. Mary’s. I love to coach and have an extensive history of coaching all levels of sport. I recently was the Junior Girls St. Mary’s CYO Bball coach and look to assist this year, once again. I have a resolute dedication to keeping a strong Catholic identity by working hard to instill Faith Formation into everyone.

I am a strong believer that parents are the first line of teaching their children about faith. Faith formation is a combined effort between both parent, school, and parish. Parents desire to see their young children grow in faith and need a little encouragement in how to model these small practices.

By focusing on meaningful engagement and growth for everyone, parishes can foster a faith that flourishes both within the home and throughout the broader parish community.

My life story is proof that God is real. I grew up in the beautiful and picturesque Adirondacks, later going to college getting my Bachelor’s in Physical Education and Master’s in Educational Leadership. As life

happens, opportunities and priorities change. In my many years of lived life experience, I’ve had the honor to work in education as well helping those in most need in the mental health field.

Please do not hesitate to introduce yourself and your family. I genuinely can’t wait to meet you and be a positive part in your family’s journey of faith and sacramental growth, while at St. Mary’s School. I believe that together, if we want to see change, we have to be involved in our school and parish community and be brave, bold, and fearless about our faith and be not afraid. Let us exemplify Christ.

In Christ,

Harry E. Bassett IV, M.Ed.

A few tidbits about me:

My confirmation saint is Saint Thomas Aquinas.

Favorite scripture….. Galatians 5:22-23

Favorite shrine… National Shrine of Our Lady of Martyrs - Auriesville

#smallschoolbigheart