My dear friends, this month we focus the spotlight on another one of the outstanding educational institutions in the diocese, St. John School, Old Saybrook.
St. John Catholic School was founded in 1964-1972 and re-established in 1994. In 1999 a new wing was added to the school and the science lab was modernized in 2002-03.
The goal of Saint John School is to be Jesus to the world. By focusing on the commitment to both heart and mind, Saint John School sustains the traditional values of Catholic formation and community involvement. In addition to teaching the “three Rs,” Saint John School promotes reverence, respect and responsibility.
The mission of Saint John School is, “to provide an opportunity for students, parents and staff to foster a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. Infused with our faith, we strive to provide challenging academic programs in which educators and families work together to inspire individual growth, self-discipline, confidence and Christian service.”
For almost 30 years, our school has been blessed to have the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church serve at St. John. This year, one sister serves as principal and another as the second grade teacher. Following in the footsteps of their founders, the sisters endeavor to bring Christ’s love to all members of the school and parish community.
St. John is a close-knit community that reaches far beyond Old Saybrook drawing students from several different towns within the area. Every day our students, teachers, staff, faculty, parents and administrators strive to live the motto - “Where everybody is somebody.”.
Individualized programs and small-sized classes allow teachers to better reach each child with his or her own unique gifts and talents.
A continuing effort is made to develop a close parent-staff relationship to aid the school in guiding each student in his or her ability to reflect, to form character, to learn and to love.
Working with parents, St. John School prepares students for their place in society. This program is implemented in a creative way, keeping the worth and ability of the individual as the center of all activities. The aim of this approach is to provide an environment which promotes the understanding which is basic to love of and respect for God, oneself and neighbor, while assuring each child the opportunity to enjoy a positive, rewarding and successful school experience.
Teachers are encouraged to use their gifts and talents as they develop their lesson plans while always abiding by the educational standards designated by the Diocese of Norwich and approved by the State of Connecticut. Saint John school is fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and is open to students of all cultures, ethnicities and faiths. We are a family of believers that seek to know and value each other.
The benchmark of our success as a school is not only measured in grades or percentages, but in the development of individuals ready to explore possibilities and meet the challenges of life. It is our goal to guide students to extend themselves to others in order to do the work of Christ, and to always rise to their potential with confidence and compassion. A continual effort is made in developing the whole child - spiritually, intellectually, affectively, socially, physically and emotionally.
Students have won state championships in robotics, essay writing, public speaking and spelling.
Saint John School not only excels academically but also offers a wide range of after-care and extracurricular programs including but not limited to traveling choir, drama, computer, music, art, journalism and student leadership.
In addition, Saint John School has a robust athletic program that helps students to develop physically as effective team members and responsible future citizens. Students can participate in cross country, soccer, basketball, golf, skiing and other intramural sports.
St. John School is not considered a private or faith-based school. It is a Catholic school in its definition and in its philosophy. The school continues to welcome and respect students of all faiths, racial and ethnic backgrounds.
We invite you to come visit us and learn more about our school family.
May God bless you and keep you safe,
Dr. Gail Kingston
Superintendent of Schools