Since the first U.S. Mercy academy for young women opened its doors in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1844, the Sisters of Mercy have educated hundreds of thousands of students from pre-school to graduate levels. Today, in over 21 states in the continental U.S., one territory and six countries, Mercy sponsors or co-sponsors over 20 elementary schools and early childhood centers, 38 secondary schools and 19 colleges and universities that continue the tradition of high-quality, values-based Catholic education.

Mercy schools pride themselves not only on the fine caliber of their programs, but also on the scholarship programs that make a Mercy education available to students who otherwise would be unable to afford a private education.

Organizations supporting the ministry of Mercy education include the Mercy Elementary Education Network, the Mercy Secondary Education Association, the Conference for Mercy Higher Education and the Network for Mercy Education. The purpose and initiatives for these organizations are described at their websites. All serve to foster collaboration and further the charism of Mercy in the tradition of Catherine McAuley, and are committed to the Mercy tradition and values named in the Sisters of Mercy Direction Statement.

In the spirit of Catherine McAuley a Mercy education nurtures growth of the whole person- spiritually, intellectually and morally. Students at Mercy schools participate in community service-a hallmark of Mercy values.

Mercy's involvement in education extends beyond the doors of its sponsored schools. The Mercy presence is felt through the many sisters who teach in diocesan and parochial schools and public and private school systems. It also extends beyond traditional classrooms to education, literacy programs and web-based education programs for adult students.