Office of the Archbishop 835 North Rush Street Chicago, IL 60611 312.534.8230 October 1, 2020 Mr. Michael Kendrick Principal, Saint James School 820 North Arlington Heights Road Arlington Heights, IL 60004-5666 Dear Mr. Kendrick, It is with great pleasure that, even...

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We want to thank you for remaining committed to our excellent Catholic school and give all our families the opportunity to participate in the SJS Catholic Education Discount Program.

  During Catholic Schools Week we honor teachers, staff and students for their tremendous work and school spirit.Each school year, St. James School’s 8th-grade class votes for two students to receive the Christian Spirit Award. Students who receive this award...

Open House Scavenger Hunt Attention current St. James students and families! Join us this Sunday, January 26 for our Catholic Schools Week Open House' Family Scavenger Hunt Challenge! Solve Riddles -  Visit Special Locations - Collect up to 10 families selfies all...

Two Saint James students recently joined a different type of club — one that literally saved their lives. Last month Samantha and Gordon Braun became members of the “Saved by the Belt” Club, an award presented by the Arlington Heights Police Department to recognize...

Attention Families - Friday, December 6th (8:20-9:20 a.m.) is our annual Christmas collection for teachers and staff. This is a popular way to show appreciation to the many St. James School personnel who do so much for our children during the year. This collection is...

Congratulations to the following students who made our 1st Trimester Honor/Merit Roll. We are very proud of our students who work hard in the classroom and strive for academic excellence!  

Bulldogs Raise $2,000 For Pat Mac's Pack On Monday, November 18 Saint James students, faculty and staff rallied together to raise money for Pat Mac's Pack. Pat Mac’s Pack is a charitable organization established in memory of Patrick Thomas McNamara, who died at the...

Experience how Saint James Kindergarten nurtures and provides a stimulating environment for your child's growth! We look forward to spending the morning with you and your child for our Kindergarten for a Day at Saint James. You and your child will be welcomed into the...

Cookies with Santa Friday, December 13 5:00pm - 7:00pm We look forward to having you at Cookies with Santa this Friday, December 13 at 5:00pm - 7:00pm. We would like to share some information with you before you make your journey to the North Pole... - Doors will open...

Saint James School strives to unlock a child’s gifts and talents within a rigorous curriculum directed toward teaching the whole child. The school seeks to foster each child’s capacity for success, developing skills and competencies needed for the 21st Century. Saint...

At all grade levels, St. James Catholic School students learn to be safe, respectful, and responsible digital citizens through the implementation of the Common Sense Education Digital Citizenship curriculum.  At St. James we value our balanced approach of using...

🐾🍎💻 Congratulations to Mrs. Granato who is our newest certified #AppleTeacher at Saint James!💻🍎🐾  Saint James currently has over 16 certified Apple Teachers. We are focused not only on what students are taught; but how they are taught. Becoming an #AppleTeacher is one...

The 2019-20 school year is almost here! SJS Orientation Day will be on Monday August 19th from 10:00am-12:00pm in the Parish Center/Gym. Below you will find links to the orientation form and a map of the gym. Please print the forms and bring it with you to Orientation...

School supply lists for all grades for the 2019-2020 academic year.  Click here to download a printable copy.  

St. James is excited to welcome a new Principal!  Mr. Mike Kendrick begins his tenure on July 1. He has most recently been the principal of St. Joseph School in Wilmette with previous administrative and teaching experiences at St. Benedict Prep and Northridge Prep....

As we welcome new students in August, the community can prepare by delving in to the wonderful book, Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper. Eleven-year-old Melody has a photographic memory. She's the smartest kid in her whole school - but no one knows it, because Melody...

It’s time to order school supply kits! Pre packaged kit sale is online ONLY. Orders can be placed now through June 16. A sample kit is available in the school office. As always, the kits will be delivered to the classroom prior to the start of school. CLICK HERE to...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS My thanks to all families for your time, treasure, talents, and support throughout this year. I always tell people that one of the greatest assets of St. James is its sense of community and its volunteers. We couldn’t do it without you!!...

Enjoy a happy, relaxing summer break! Don't forget to attend Mass each weekend!

All are welcome to join us for the End of Year Choral Concert in the Parish Center at 2:30.  Please enter through the school office.

St, James School takes great pride in learning of two alumni who have been named to the Daily Herald Academic Team for 2018-2019, Clarissa Gomez and Maura Hogaboom, SJS Class of 2015, are among, as the Daily Herald states, the best and the brightest! These students...

As their special day approaches, the Class of 2019 gathered to celebrate at the annual Graduation Dinner Dance. It was a delightful evening with wonderful company,  a fine meal, sharing of elementary school memories, and dancing!  A number of awards were presented at...

God bless the Class of 2019 of St. James School! Thank you for sharing your gifts with us and the best of luck in high school and beyond! Remember that St. James will always be your home away from home!

Join us for the 9:00 all school Mass. This will be the last all school Mass at St, James for our soon-to-be graduates. Come celebrate the Fest of the the Queenship of Mary and wish our eighth graders a smooth road ahead!

Come one, come all and join the SJS contingent in the Arlington Heights Memorial Day parade! All are welcome!

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS The excitement has been building for SJS's very first STEAM Fair!! We look forward to greeting you this evening from 6:30-8:00. This event will look different from the Creative Learning Fair of past years. So please take time to look at...

It’s time to order school supply kits! Pre packaged kit sale is online ONLY. Orders can be placed now through June 16. A sample kit is available in the school office. As always, the kits will be delivered to the classroom prior to the start of school. CLICK HERE to...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS SJS students were involved in a wide variety of learning this week including...   ... building mousetrap cars for their physics unit... ...using live plants to complete an inquiry unit in seventh grade science... ... creating...

Join the Children's Rosary group and pray for your special intention. We'll pray at 4:00 in the school chapel.

SJS students and staff are excited to see you next Thursday for STEAM Night! There are a variety of activities happening throughout the building. CLICK HERE to preview the events and plan your schedule!

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS SJS continued to celebrate our Blessed Mother during the month of May. We honor her in our daily prayers and celebrated Mary in a special way after this week’s Friday Mass with our May Crowning. The eighth grade class led the school in...

Come one, come all and join the SJS contingent in the Arlington Heights Memorial Day parade! All are welcome!

All are welcome to join us as we honor Mother Mary!  May Crowning will take place in the church after the 9:00 all school Mass on Friday, May 10. This is one of St. James School's most time honored traditions.

Teachers in Catholic schools model the Gospel in all they do. The relationships they build with students affect them throughout their lives.This week we celebrate all Catholic school teachers, especially those at St. James School! Thank you for your ministry to our...

All are welcome to join us for the final Band Concert of the year this Wednesday at 7:00 in the Parish Center!

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS May is dedicated to our Blessed Mother. We honor her in our daily prayers and special celebrations including May Crowning. All are invited to join the school on May 10. May Crowning will take place at the conclusion of 9:00 Mass. Marian...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. FARRELL Faith abounds at St. James School! As many of you know, our second grade students will celebrate First Holy Communion tomorrow,  Saturday, May 4th. The students are very excited because they have experienced preparation for this sacrament...

Training will be offered at St. James. Please register online by CLICKING HERE.

Training for current and NEW altar servers will take place on Saturday at 1:00.

SJS NJHS students will be collecting donations this Friday, April 26, from 3:25pm-3:40pm in the car pick-up lines for Misericordia! Please support this worthy organization!!

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS All are invited to participate in the liturgies of the Sacred Triduum as we prepare for Easter. All liturgies are in the newly renovated church!     Classes are not in session on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of Easter Week due...

All are welcome to services at St. James on Good Friday 7:30     Morning Prayer 12 noon Traditional Stations 1:00   Living Stations of the Cross 3:00  Liturgy of the Lord's Passion 7:30  Service of Taize Prayer

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. FARRELL As Catholics who are living the faith, especially at this most sacred time of year, I would urge you spend some time each day in family faith enrichment. While Holy Week begins, Sunday, April 14, each week of Lent has been special and led...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS During this season of Lent, everyone at SJS has been walking with Jesus by dedicating themselves to extra acts of kindness and positivity.   Each week everyone writes an activity that they will try to perform during the week on...

St. James School offers a warm dry place to play. We pull out the parachute, scooters, hula hops, and balls! Come with your little ones and meet some new friends!

Current and new servers are invited to attend training for serving in the renovated church! See details below.

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS The Lenten season can bring up some "wonderings' for our children! At school, we teachers often get questions from our students like, why is Lent 40 days long? What is prayer, fasting, and almsgiving all about? Why are we to give up...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. McGOWAN Spring is the season of standardized tests, and the job of helping students perform to the best of their ability falls to parents and teachers. It is important to be supportive of our children's efforts on standardized tests, and to help...

Our teachers, administrators and staff members are the Heart of our Schools. Our educational mission is lived out by the thousands of dedicated school employees who support our students every day. While our administrators, teachers and staff members do not seek out...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS We look forward to welcoming many of you this evening at Parent-Teacher Conferences. Your timeliness in keeping your appointments is appreciated!   .   Would a guest to your home know that you are observing Lent? During Advent,...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS As spring approaches families are reminded that ASPIRE standardized testing will be held during the week of April 8-12. Please refrain from making appointments that will keep students in grades 3-8 our of the building. It is...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL This Sunday’s Gospel is the story of the Transfiguration. It is especially important when considered in the context of Lent. Jesus took his inner circle of apostles—Peter, James, and John—up a mountain, which is a place of revelation;...

As spring approaches families are reminded that ASPIRE standardized testing will be held during the week of April 8-12. Please refrain from making appointments that will keep students in grades 3-8 our of the building. It is critical that students arrive in a timely...

FROM THE PRINCIPAL Traffic....it can certainly be a pain. But if you've ever been on the receiving end of an auto accident, or, God forbid, the victim of being injured by a moving vehicle, it's a royal pain! Much of it boils down to respect---respect for others,...

Recently the Daily Herald announced the 2018-19 Daily Herald Leadership Team, suburban high school students who represent some of the best of their generation -- hard-working, dedicated, eager to lead. Two of these ten esteemed students are alumni of Saint James...

St. James School is delighted to welcome award-winning author Lisa Graff on Monday, March 11. Ms. Graff will talk with students about her career as an author and her new book Far Away. To guarantee a personalized copy of her book, please return this order form with...

SJS is nice and warm and ready for you and your tot to enjoy and open space to play and meet new friends!

FROM THE PRINCIPAL As St. James prepares to celebrate Mass in the newly renovated church, the desire is that every person who walks through the doors of our church encounters a joyful welcome. The Sunday Experience is a direct reflection of our parish mission to be...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. FARRELL, Director of Spiritual Formation This morning in Bible Study, Ms. Hudson asked what we were giving up for Lent. Some had very definite ideas, others had not decided. I had a definite idea and my answer is “doubt”.  That may sound like an...

A freezing day in January pushed the band concert to a new day. We hope you can join us!

FROM THE PRINCIPAL Students at SJS recently participated in a qualification competition for the 37th annual Knights of Columbus Spelling Bee. Two seventh graders were left standing at the end of the spelling bee to go on participate in the regional Bee on March 2....

    From the Desk of Mrs. McGowan   On August 3, 2017,  Michelle Carter was sentenced to 15 months in Massachusetts prison. Carter had been convicted of involuntary manslaughter over the suicide of her boyfriend. She will also serve 5 years of probation....

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL Congratulations to our student thespians and crew on the excellent production of Mary Poppins! MANY MANY THANKS to the producer, SJS ALUMNUS, Julie Cohen and director, Brett Baleskie,  We are grateful to SJS ALUMNI Miss Winter, musical...

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL Given the extreme weather conditions so far this season the Office of Catholic Schools has made an exception in regards to the required number of school days per year. Their notice states: "Due to the fact that we are requiring schools to...

CLICK HERE to access the catalogue of classes and registration form.

It's warm and lots of fun during our Parent-Tot Open Gym! Join us for the next session, Monday, February 11 from 9:00am-10:00am. Word

Looking for a great Kindergarten for your child for 2019-2020? Join us on Friday for Kindergarten for a Day at SJS! Call the office to RSVP. Word

FROM THE DESK OF THE PRINCIPAL SJS enjoyed a fabulous (albeit truncated) Catholic Schools Week, enjoying a Cultural Arts Program, "Be Kind" t shirts, a special gift, performing service, a NO HOMEWORK day,  special Mass, honoring special students and staff, and a...

We're ready to show our SJS pride during Catholic Schools Week 2019! Come for a tour, visit the Book Fair, celebrate with us at the special all school Mass, and enjoy the Variety Show. The schedule of the week's activity are shown below.

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS Please join us this Sunday at the 11:30 Mass as we kick off Catholic Schools Week! Following Mass all are welcome to visit the classrooms and the FSA Book Fair sponsored this year by Anderson's Book Store. A special presentation will be...

Join us for the 11:30 Mass and enjoy a tour of the school afterwards! All are welcome!

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. JUDY PAPPAS SJS continues to spread the word of our excellent program. Last week our teachers were present at the AHML Pre K Information Night. This week we were at St. Edna after Sunday Masses and enjoyed welcoming an overflow crowd to our Pre...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. JUDY PAPPAS Happy New Year! I know I speak for the entire staff when saying THANK YOU for all of your signs of appreciation to us, at Christmastime and throughout the school year. From birthday/holiday gifts to giving before school supervisors...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL, Director of Spiritual Formation “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  He was in the beginning with God.  All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. McGOWAN Happy New Year! Family dinners at my house can be challenging. My husband travels, and my daughter and I have busy schedules. I have been looking into ways to make our time together at meal time more enjoyable. A New Year’s Resolution...

All are welcome on Sunday, January 27,  after the 11:30 Mass until 2:00 pm. Visit for the first time, come meet friends, and enjoy displays of student work. Tour our building, meet our teachers, and sign up for the a valuable foundation for your child.

LAST CHANCE!!!  January 11 DEADLINE! CLICK HERE to access the reservation form for this popular event.

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. JUDY PAPPAS Christmas circles around the idea of gifts and giving. Jesus Christ, God’s gift to us, calls us to come to a greater realization of the many gifts that we too often take for granted. With the recent losses experienced by members of...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL It is “beginning to look a lot like Christmas". While that may be true, the way it is meant by the culture is not always consistent with the real sense of anticipation of Christmas. As Catholics, we will continue to prepare for...

FROM THE PRINCIPAL This coming weekend we celebrate the third Sunday of the Season of Advent.   For those old enough to remember, this Sunday was known as Gaudete  (Rejoice!) Sunday, because our time of waiting would soon come to an end  While rejoicing is...

HOUSEHOLDS OF FAITH       FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL This Sunday, the Third Sunday of Advent, will seem a little different. When you come to mass, you will note that the priest is wearing a rose colored vestment, rather than violet. The Advent Candle is also...

All young ladies, Pre K through Grade 8 and their escorts are invited to the 2nd annual Daddy Daughter Dance presented by the Saint James School FSA! The dance is on Friday, January 25, 2019 from 7:00-9:00 in the Parish Center. RSVPs close on January 7 so act quickly!...

                                        Brown Bag Lunches for Homeless and Less Fortunate “For I was hungry and you fed me.”   Matthew 25:35 Sandwich Ministry Menu 2 meat sandwiches on white or whole wheat bread or roll   2 hard boiled eggs    ***optional  ...

FROM THE PRINCIPAL The school children started their week together around the Advent wreath and prayed and sang "O come Emanuel!"  I could feel the hope of the season in their young voices. It was beautiful and exactly the focus of Advent. Around the building we have...

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL   SJS is proud of our teachers continuing to build their professional toolkits! Our life long learners are creating more engaging learning atmospheres for SJS students. With the arrival of Advent this coming Sunday, our church begins a...

Did you  know that the sixth graders went to Greece this week? Students took a virtual field trip to Greece on Wednesday via Skype! Corinth Excavations Educator, Katie Petrole, who manages the archaeological collection and its use in educational...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL Over the last couple of weeks, we have all had more than the usual amount of activity in our homes. People have been coming and going and those of us who have “semi-independent” young adults most likely asked more than a few questions...

Due to anticipated snowfall tonight and through tomorrow, Saint James School will be closed on Monday, November 26.

We celebrate with gratitude for God's abundant blessings and wish all of our families a blessed Thanksgiving! https://animoto.com/play/8BIOQw2dWUICE7DD8vVJMw  

Be a part of this annual SJS tradition! Join the fun by registering at https://www.stjamesschoolah.org/cookies-with-santa/

FROM THE PRINCIPAL   Please note that no Friday Fodder will be distributed next week due to the short week with Thanksgiving holidays. Thank you for your continued support of Saint James School! Enjoy a day counting blessings!       We appreciate the...

Maura Hogaboom, SJS Class of 2015, is the recipient of the Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women (ACCW) Golden Rose Award. The Chicago Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women is an inclusive community of Catholic Women who seek to empower and educate its members in...

FROM THE PRINCIPAL Sunday, November 11, is Veterans’ Day.  Please spend a moment in prayer for the sacrifice of brave men and women who have fought for our freedoms. Dear Lord,  We honor our veterans, worthy men and women, who gave their best when they were called...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL Earlier this week a meeting was held for parents of students who will make their First Communion and, equally as important, their first Reconciliation. Right now our second grade classes are preparing for Reconciliation. As you know,...

SJS Band and Middle School Chorus at ILMEA Music Festival Congratulations to SJS musicians who recently participated in the ILMEA Music Festival!  Billy Beck auditioned and made it into the Junior Band playing trumpet! We had several singers join the Junior Chorus as...

Congratulations to alumni who continue to make us proud! We're delighted by your success! May God bless you as you continue to develop the gifts with which He has blessed you! Clarissa Gomez and Maura Hogaboom, SJS Class of 2015 –  National Merit Semifinalists  ...

Once again this year we have the opportunity to share our blessings with those less fortunate. Through our “Sandwich Ministry” the hungry in the Chicago metropolitan area are given healthy food to eat.  On designated days any family that is able is asked to prepare a...

Join the fun at the next Parent/Tot Open Gym at SJS! The next session is on Monday, November 12, from 9:00-10:00. Hope to see you there!  

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS It seems that Friday Fodder email delivery has become problematic for some families. The emails are not making their way to your inboxes. Please be sure you give access to this email admin@stjamesschoolah.org. Hopefully that will help! If...

EL DIA DE LOS MUERTOS Senorita Tomko's Spanish students learned about the November 2 feast of All Souls' Day or El Dia de los Muertos. This celebration originated in central and southern Mexico hundreds of years ago and is still celebrated by Latinos today. The main...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS Congratulations to our teachers as they grow as educators!  Several of our teachers have been recognized for their understanding of how to use Apple products for teaching and learning. They have proven knowledge of using iPad, Mac,...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL As you know, once a week, most often on Fridays, St. James celebrates an All School Mass. The primary purpose of this practice is to celebrate the Eucharist as a community of faith. The reason this is so important is that the...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS Sixth through eighth grade students did a fabulous job last Friday as we celebrated a bilingual Mass to close out Hispanic Heritage Month! As Senorita Tomko teaches, culturas diferentes conectadas por la religión...while we may have...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. MC GOWAN Research has shown us that teaching children social-emotional skills is one of the greatest gifts we can give to our children. From the most simple thing as politely greeting another and making eye contact with the person speaking...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS     Here's peek at some of the learning experiences happening among SJS students this week: Grade 2 prayed the rosary in the chapel. Grade 1 solved algorithms with Mrs. Zebron to prepare for learning coding. Grade 8...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL Last week, I told you about the Archdiocesan Summit that was dedicated to renewing the Church in Chicago, even as other Catholic churches throughout the world are undertaking this work in various ways. Admittedly, that is significant...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. MC GOWAN   I have spoken with many parents about the topic of homework challenges. Whether the challenge is procrastination, disorganization, or the failure to turn the completed homework, life after school hours can be stressful for...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS October is one of the months that the Church dedicates to Mother Mary. During this month we honor of the power of praying the rosary along with so many other Marian prayers. Our students are learning more about the rosary and its...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL   Every so often, everyone’s house needs a good renewal – both in terms of the structure and in terms of how each member of the family shares responsibility for the household. Our shared “Household of Faith” – the Archdiocese of...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS   A view of this week's active learning at SJS in and outside of the classrooms!     Please CLICK HERE to see the state required annual asbestos communication to families.     Picture Day for PK4-Grade 8 is...

FROM THE PRINCIPAL   Next Monday is SPIRIT WEAR Day! Please abide by the code for Spirit Wear that are in the Students/Parent Handbook. Spirit Wear regulations are as follows Designated spirit wear shirts, school activity shirts such as Broadway Bulldogs shirts,...

St. James’ students and teachers are feeling a new excitement centered around science as the 2018-2019 school year is now well underway. Elevate Science is a comprehensive K–8 science program, including a blended print and digital curriculum. It incorporates...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL I want to thank those of you who were able to attend Monday evenings discussion regarding the current abuse issues in the church. Father Matt conducted an open forum that allowed all who wished to speak to be heard. For those of you...

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL   Have you seen the beautiful photo and newspaper article about SJS's Grandparents/Special Persons' Day celebration? Click here to read about our remarkable day! MORE FABULOUS PHOTOS ARE AVAILABLE ON THE SJS WEBSITE IN THE PHOTO GALLERY...

FROM THE PRINCIPAL It was such a thrill to welcome our grandparents and special guests to SJS. Mass was, as always, a beautiful sharing of faith. Thank you to The Davy Family for leaving us with a beautiful message and affirmation of the priceless gift of a Catholic...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. FARRELL, Director of Spiritual Formation As we begin a new year at St. James School, it is important to realize that the core reason our school and our parish exist is “To be disciples of Christ and make disciples of Christ.” (Parish...

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL Thank you for your time attending PIN on Wednesday! It was great to see everyone and start out the year in such a positive manner! The 3 year old PreK began their year yesterday. There were plenty of smiles and lots of excitement for our...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. McGOWAN Welcome back to another year at St James, and welcome to all of our new families!  I continue to feel so fortunate to work with you and your children. Many are surprised to hear we have a School Counselor on staff at St. James. I like to...

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL   Our teachers and staff have brought so much energy to the start of this year! Our priests have been so present to our families! Families and children have begun the year with a renewed spirit and open hearts!! All  efforts are truly...

Rising to Grade 8 Rising to Grade 7 Rising to Grade 6 Rising to Grade 5 Rising to Grade 4 Rising to Grade 3 Rising to Grade 2 Rising to Grade 1 Rising to Kindergarten

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL Our teachers have been working hard to ensure a smooth start for our children! There is great excitement to welcome you on Monday (Grades PK 4-8) for Orientation Day! Please see the detailed information for the day below.   BUT FIRST.......

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL   Sealed boxes....    ...and empty classrooms...    ...won't be that way for long!! Teachers are trolling the hallways and busy preparing the rooms and emptying boxes tin anticipation of the children's arrival on Monday, August 20, for...

 FROM THE PRINCIPAL Mark your calendar for Sunday, August 19 for the Welcome Back to School Mass at 11:30 in the Parish Center. Stick around after Mass for the BIG REVEAL for class assignments. Class lists will be posted outside of homerooms. Enjoy a cup of coffee,...

CLICK HERE for school supply lists for Pre K 3 through grade 8.  

Have a great time reading this summer! Incoming 8th Grade Incoming 7th Grade Incoming 6th Grade Incoming 5th Grade Incoming 4th Grade Incoming 3rd Grade Incoming 2nd Grade Incoming 1st Grade Incoming Kindergarten    

And then there were 3. SJS is proud to share news of a 3rd alum achieving a perfect score on ACT/SAT tests this year! Congratulations to Clarissa Gomez, Class of 2015! She joins fellow members of the SJS Class of 2015, Maura Hogaboom and Tom Constertina, both of SVHS,...

FROM THE PRINCIPAL My thanks to all families for your time, treasure, talents, and support throughout this year. I always tell people that one of the greatest assets of St. James is its sense of community and its volunteers. We couldn’t do it without you!! Special...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. McGOWAN   I can’t believe how quickly this year has flown! I have been holding on to this article from Stewardship.com  since I read  it last summer. I think it has some good points! I would only add time for prayer, Mass and helping...

FROM THE PRINCIPAL As their special day approaches, the Class of 2018 gathered to celebrate at the annual Graduation Dinner Dance. It was a delightful evening with wonderful company,  a fine meal, sharing of elementary school memories, and dancing!  A number of awards...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. FARRELL, Director of Spiritual Formation The countdown has begun – 5,4,3, 2, 1…SCHOOL’S OUT! Ah for those lazy, laid back days of summer. But we live in a culture where a phrase like that has little meaning. Many will go from very rigorous school...

    FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS Abby Thengil and Lila Sheriff enjoyed a unique experience today joining SJS priests and learning about what a day is like for Father Matt and Father Derek. Thanks to our priests for hosting the girls as "Priests for a Day", a Battle of...

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL Thank you to the following students for serving as greeters, readers, and gift bearers at this past Sunday’s 10:00 Mass: Alex Chengary, Camille Chu, Jake Cohen, Leo Cohen, Oliver Cohen, Angel Hernandez, Anthony Zebron, and Ben Zebron. Sunday Mass...

Place orders directly online  on or before June 24.

Our last Sandwich Ministry of the year tomorrow.Thank you for your generosity toward those in need!! “For I was hungry and you fed me.” Matthew 25:35 Brown Bag Lunches for Homeless and Less Fortunate Menu 2 meat sandwiches on white or whole wheat bread or roll 2 hard...

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL SJS has made significant strides in technology this year led, in large part, to the genrosity of our families, Parents Club and efforts of Miss Harter, SJS Educational Technologist and diligent learning by our teachers. All students have had...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. FARRELL, Director of Spiritual Formation May is a very important month for us. It is one of two dedicated to Mary and the Rosary. The Rosary is a Marian prayer drawn from Bible stories of Jesus. As you know, the decades of the Rosary are...

All are welcome to join us for the final concert of the year on Wednesday, May 9 at 7:00pm in the Parish Center. The third graders will join the band on their recorders.  

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS Congratulations to Mrs. McDermott who was selected by the Office of Catholics Schools as a recipient of the Archdiocese of Chicago's 2018 Heart of Enrichment, Heart of the School Award. Catholic Schools seek to teach the "whole...

Common Sense, the national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids and families thrive in a world of digital media and technology, has recognized St. James School as a Common Sense School. St. James School has demonstrated its commitment to taking a...

FROM DESK OF MRS. JUDY PAPPAS Another calendar page will turn next week! May is dedicated to our Blessed Mother. We honor her in our daily prayers and special celebrations including May Crowning. All are invited to join the school on May 11. May Crowning will take...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. McGOWAN   Sleep deprivation is a real problem for adults and kids these days! Imagine you're in your school math class after staying up late doing homework, and the teacher calls on you to explain something complicated on the board....

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS Misericordia Candy Days are coming up. Misericordia is a not for profit organization on the north side of Chicago. Misercordia offers a community of care that maximizes potential for persons with mild to profound developmental...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS Saint James School strives to keep tuition rates as reasonable as possible. Knowing that Catholic education would not be possible for every family who would desire the opportunity, tuition aid is available for registered...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL, Director of Spiritual Formation This has been an exciting week because your Households of Faith came to proclaim our Friday Mass today. As you well know, your children have been taking the ACT/Aspire test throughout the week. So we...

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL Welcome back and Happy Easter season! As Catholics, we celebrate for 40 days after this great feast. The hefty congregations for Easter Sunday celebrations set a great trend. All are invited back this coming Sunday to continue the celebration of...

VIRTUS is the brand name that identifies best practices programs designed to help prevent wrongdoing and promote "right doing" within religious organizations.The VIRTUS programs empower organizations and people to better control risk and improve the lives of all those...

  FROM THE PRINCIPAL   Mark your calendars and join the SJS community for a special Friday morning Mass on April 13. SJS parents will take on special roles during this liturgy! Newly registered and prospective families, you are invited, too! Hospitality will be...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL, DIRECTOR OF SPIRITUAL FORMATION We are but a few days away from the joy of Easter. Yet, to reach that sublime gift for all who believe, we must enter into the Passion of Christ. So no matter where you are next week , please...

Our third  Student Council Dance will be held on Friday, April 6, 2018 for all 7th and 8thgraders. At this dance, the older students welcome the 6th graders as they widen their middle school experiences. The dance will be held immediately after school from 4:00 pm...

Please note that the April 20 Open Gym has been moved to Monday, April 23.

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS Thank you to those who participated in a special way at this past Sunday's 10:00 Mass as a greeter, reader, and/or gift bearer: Angel Hernandez, Gillian and Maddie Dufern, and Fiona, Declan, Aidan, Finn, and P.J. McLeod. You, too, can...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL, DIRECTOR OF SPIRITUAL FORMATION There is a clear message in two pieces of “news” that occurred in the in the last several days. Last week, The English theoretical physicist, Stephen Hawking, a self-proclaimed atheist, surprised all...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS ~REMINDER—PLEASE drive slowly and carefully on our campus, both west and east sides. NEVER leave the drop off line and go around stopped cars. No one wants to be in or driving a vehicle that causes an accident. EVERY ONE’S TIME IS...

    FROM THE DESK OF MRS. CINDY MCGOWAN,  SCHOOL COUNSELOR 5 Things to Say When You Have No Words When someone you love suffers a painful loss, it’s hard to know what to do. These deep thinkers offer sage suggestions. By Rebecca Webber Say Nothing at All. A...

   FROM THE PRINCIPAL Next week SJS is looking forward to welcoming a visiting team to affirm the findings of our AdvancEd School Improvement Process. The AdvancED accreditation process is used at all levels of education, and is recognized for its ability to...

  From the Desk of Mrs. Pat Farrell, Director of Spiritual Formation One of our most beautiful Lenten traditions at St. James School is taking the children to Stations of the Cross on Friday afternoon. The students attend the Stations in groups of two grade levels....

    FROM THE PRINCIPAL The nation’s Catholic school communities unite in prayer following the tragic shootings at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. “With heavy hearts, NCEA and Catholic school communities around the country stand united to...

With the cold and flu season in high gear, SJS nurses, Mrs. Baker and Mrs. Westerkamp, would like to offer school families information and advice. SICK CALLS: When your child is absent due to illness, you must call the St. James Absence Line at 224-345-7146.  Be sure...

   FROM THE PRINCIPAL ~Many thanks to the following students who served as greeters, readers, and gift bearers at last Sunday's 10:00 Mass:Catrina, Cecelia and Kane Boudart, PJ McLeod, Gabriella Scaravalle, and Ben and Anthony Zebron. You can serve in these special...

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL, DIRECTOR OF SPIRITUAL FORMATION As you know, Lent began this Wednesday, Feb. 14th.This year, it coincided with Valentine’s Day. While this has become a secular symbol of romantic love, the roots of Valentine’s day, do rest in the...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAPPAS It's nearly time for the annual Broadway Bulldogs' production of this year's musical, High School Musical, Jr.!! Tickets are going fast! You don't want to miss SJS upper level students in this spirited show! Ticket sales end at midnight...

  FROM THE DESK OF MRS. PAT FARRELL It has been a busy, faith-filled time at Saint James, especially since the first of the year. We had a great retreat for our 7th grade, which I mentioned previously, and last week, of course, we celebrated Catholic Schools Week....

Six Flags Reading Program logs are due soon for K-6th graders. The final deadline to submit reading logs is 2/27/18, but it is strongly encouraged that students turn them in early.

FROM THE DESK OF MRS. CINDY MC GOWAN, SCHOOL COUNSELOR We all know how important it is for our children to be readers. Sometimes children need coaxing to do independent reading and see it as a fun and profitable pastime. I came across the following article which sheds...

   FROM THE PRINCIPAL Congratulations to the 2018 Christian Spirit Award winners, Victoria Gauza and Michael Cassady, and the SJS Hearts of the School, Mrs. Julie Baker and Mrs. Diane Westerkamp, our Health Office Nurses! We’re proud of you and thank you for all you...

8th Grade  Collaborative Installation Each eighth grade art class (22 students in each class) collaborated to plan and create an Art Installation.  Students were instructed to design a piece that represented both the group as a whole (the “big picture”) as well as the...

~We hope to see you at 11;30 Mass and afterwards for the annual Catholic Schools Week Open House this Sunday, January 28 from 11:30 until 2:00. Fourth and fifth grade parents are invited to a special presentation by the upper level teachers. This brief presentation...

Some of us know better than others about the miserable flu that has descended upon our area. The SJS Health Office would like to offer some tips to keep your family healthy! Flu Prevention Tips Get vaccinated. Vaccination is the first step to flu prevention. In...

New at St. James School! Come join the fun, meet new families, make new friends! Low key, a fun atmosphere for camaraderie & play in the cold winter!

From the Desk of Mrs. Cindy McGowan, School Counselor I recently learned about a new issue related to cell phone usage and their physical impact on all of us (www.spine-health.com). It is a condition called ‘text neck’. 'Text neck' is the term used to describe the...

  From the Desk of Mrs. Pat Farrell, Director of Spiritual Formation It hasn’t been a difficult winter, but every once in a while we have gotten a blast of cold that makes us want to seek warmth. Think about this: warmth is not just a physical sense. True warmth comes...

~Applications for the 2018-2019 academic year will be available next Friday. Registration begins officially on Sunday, January 28, at the opening of Catholic Schools Week. Electronic registration will be available this year at...

Saint James School Broadway Bulldogs is proud to present High School Musical Jr!  Get your tickets now!  Click here to purchase tickets.

COMING NEXT THURSDAY EVENING--DON'T MISS IT! INVITE FAMILY, NEIGHBORS & FRIENDS to learn more about the exciting early childhood program at SJS! ~St. James School is pleased to announce that we will begin using the Raptor Visitor Management System in all of our...

From the Desk of Mrs. Cindy McGowan As we begin the second half of our academic year, I wanted to share with you some homework tips from my friend, Marcella Moran. Marcella is also known as The Kid Organizer (thekidorganizer.com). I have adapted this post from an...

Welcome Back to School and Happy New Year! I know I speak for the entire staff when saying THANK YOU for all of your expressions of appreciation to us, at Christmastime and throughout the school year. From birthday/holiday gifts to giving outside arrival supervisors...

From the Principal Christmas circles around the idea of gifts and giving. Jesus Christ, God’s gift to us, calls us to come to a greater realization of the many gifts that we too often take for granted. With the recent challenges and losses experienced by members of...

From the Desk of Pat Farrell, Director of Spiritual Development… As we enter this final week of Advent, we reflect on love. Love is the essence of Christ’s relationship with us. As stated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “The dignity of man rests above all on...

From the Principal Thanks to the following students and their families for volunteering at Mass on Sunday, Dec. 10: Hannah and Theresa Nakagome, Angel Hernandez, Victoria Rzaca, Anthony, Ben and Eli Zebron.  Greeters, Readers, and Gift Bearers are needed for Sunday,...

From the Desk of Pat Farrell, Director of Spiritual Development… It is hard to believe that will enter the third week of Advent this Sunday. As we prepare  for the birth of Christ, this week is particularly meaningful. Our week begins with “Gaudete Sunday.” Gaudete...

Read the weekly newsletter from the Principal, Mrs. Judy Pappas. From the Principal Morning prayer at SJS is special during the Advent season. In addition to having our students as prayer and pledge leaders, students involved in the vocal and band departments feature...

From the Desk of Pat Farrell, Director of Spiritual Development... Peace. This is a word that has lost much of it’s meaning in the world around us. This is a real serious issue for all people, all cultures, all faiths – an even people who say they have no faith.   Yet...

Looking for an older Friday Fodder?  We have you covered!  Just click on one of the older Friday Fodder archives to read previously posted school news. Friday-Fodder-November-17-2017 Friday-Fodder-November-9-2017 Friday-Fodder-November-2-2017...

Thank you tour committee chair, Lisa Chu and all of our room parents who assisted with the Christmas collection on Wednesday.  Parents' Club continues to be a huge asset to SJS because of YOU. Thanks for our Photography Team who snap pictures at many SJS events....

Read the weekly newsletter from the Principal, Mrs. Judy Pappas. Happy New Year! Advent begins this Sunday opening a new liturgical year.  The USCCB website provides a good assortment of activities for families including prayers of blessing for family Advent wreaths,...

SJS recently welcomed a special visitor from GOOGLE! The Google rep brought the equipment needed to lead students through fascinating Augmented Reality Expeditions. Some classes looked at landforms while others looked at dinosaurs, forces of nature, objects in the...

What have our bulldogs been up to? Basketball season in underway!  Let's support our teams!  Visit the Athletics Page for a full schedule.

Support our Parents' Club by attending meetings, participating in fundraisers, and volunteering!  The next meeting is December 19th at 9:00am in Laramie Room. Read more about Parents' Club!