It was founded in 1922 by the Benedictine Sisters of Virginia, of Bristow Monastery, and is still owned and governed by the order, although the day-to-day operations are run by lay administrative and teaching staff.

The school's goal is to provide young women with an academic education in an environment of Christian values and cultural diversity.

The building had two rooms used as a small private elementary school and housed a care center for exceptional children which was later discontinued.

Over 3,000 people pack in to see each class present a program of familiar tunes with original lyrics, along with the Saint Gertrude High School Alma mater.

In the week leading up to Song Contest, the classes decorate the hallways with their colors and theme, perform for their classmates, and rehearse.