Video by Al Cassidy

The St. James School community proudly celebrated the beginning of its third school year on Monday, September 9, 2013.

Year 3 marks several important changes:

1. The growing of the student body from 30 to 46 students
2. The first 7th grade
3. A new position dedicated to high school placement and graduate support

All of these changes were made possible by the generosity of our committed donors. Over 150 people donated to the Add 7 for 7^th Grade campaign, which provided funding for the school to renovate the new classroom and helped secure a $60,000 matching gift from two anonymous donors.

Students shake the hand of Bishop Clifton Daniel

To commemorate the start of its third year, St. James School hosted its Opening Doors One Classroom at a Time ceremony, where a packed audience of friends, supporters, staff, and families officially welcomed new students and helped open the doors to a new school year. The ceremony also included special guest Bishop Clifton Daniel of the Episcopal Diocese of Pennsyvania, who said a special blessing for the school.

Jamaal Oliver announces the names of 5th grade students

After trumpeters kicked off the morning and the church bells were pealed at 8:30 am (signaling the beginning of the school year), student ambassador Jamaal Oliver announced the names of 16 new students to the 5th grade and one additional 6th grade student. The new 5th grade students took part in an important rite of passage –receiving their blazers for the first time.

Ronald McDonald House Charities presents $25,000 to St. James School

During the ceremony, St. James School was presented with a special check for $25,000 from Ronald McDonald House Charities. Reverend John Dawkins, a local McDonald’s owner and operator, joined the ceremony and presented the school with the check. Students were excited to learn that the grant will be used to fund technology in the classroom. View full article here

Afterwards, guests gathered for a reception in the backyard and were invited to tour the school to check out the newly renovated classroom (formerly the dining room), updated art class, new school warming kitchen, library and other exciting changes to the building.

By September 2014, the school will expand to the 8th grade and graduate its first class of students.