SJS At a Glance

 

FAQs

 
  • In the current 2023 - 2024 school year, there are 315 children enrolled in our school. Most classes are capped at 32 students with a full time teacher, teaching aide who works with the primary teacher during core curriculum hours (mornings), resource teacher, math support teacher and ELA support teacher.

  • SJS has an Extended Care (after-school enrichment) program after normal school hours. Prior to the school day, all children are welcome on campus and supervised when the gates open at 7:30am. Extended Care is available from dismissal time until 5:30 pm.

  • Some of our recent adventure in learning have included but are not limited to: Safari West, Preston Farms, The Petaluma Bird Rescue Center, Westminster Woods Outdoor Education Camp/Environmental Science Education (Occidental), Luther Burbank Home and Gardens, The Petaluma Adobe (overnight), Armstrong Grove, Petaluma Wildlife Museum, Tzomia Tea, the Grist Mill in Napa, the Multicultural Museum in Santa Rosa, the Healdsburg Science Fair, area theater productions, the Buddhist Temple in Ukiah, Spring Lake, San Francisco Exploratorium, Alcatraz, The Aviation Museum, and Washington D.C. These experiences offer students real world examples of concepts they learn in class.

  • Every year, SJS students receive the opportunity to read to a dog. Studies have shown that reading with a dog creates a relaxed atmosphere in which a child learns more easily. This program is designed to encourage, inspire, and support student literacy. Many thanks go to the 4PAWS organization for providing our students with canine reading companions.

  • No, you do not have to be Catholic to attend SJS. We welcome students from all faith backgrounds and believe in fostering an inclusive and diverse community. Our mission is to provide a high-quality education that nurtures the whole child, focusing on academic excellence, moral development, and character formation.

    At SJS, we celebrate and respect the various faith traditions and cultural backgrounds represented among our student body. Our commitment to Catholic values and principles enriches our educational experience, but it does not restrict admission based on religious affiliation. We believe that diversity enhances learning and promotes understanding among our students.

    Our school community is dedicated to creating an environment where all students can grow academically, spiritually, and morally, regardless of their religious beliefs. We encourage open dialogue, mutual respect, and the exploration of individual faith journeys while fostering a strong sense of community and shared values.

    If you have any further questions or concerns about our admissions process or the experience of non-Catholic students at SJS, please don't hesitate to reach out to our admissions team. We are here to assist you and provide you with more information about our welcoming and inclusive school community.

  • The first bell rings at 8:00 a.m. & second (tardy) bell rings at 8:05 a.m. The school days end at 2:30pm for regular days & at 12:00 p.m. on half days. For TK & Kinder, Fridays are early dismissal and the school day ends at 12:15 p.m.

  • We provide a solid foundation for creating a safe and respectful learning environment. Teachers incorporate in-class lessons to build children’s social skills and self-esteem while giving them the tools to solve everyday problems. There is a focus on empathy and communication, bullying prevention and emotion management. Faculty and staff are keen on preventing problem behaviors and promoting academic achievement.

  • Our faculty is trained in basic first aid and CPR. A head injury or other serious injury warrants a call to the parent. Local EMS are in close proximity to the school for emergency response. We ensure all faculty and staff are aware of specific allergies, and we operate as a “nut-free” school.

  • Yes, there is tuition assistance on a need-determined basis. The application is submitted and processed through FACTS, the school’s tuition management system. Please consult the principal for further details.

  • Yes, SJS participates in the North Bay Catholic Schools League (CSL) for boys and girls. Athletics begin in 5th grade, and continue through 8th grade. The CSL consists of 10 Diocesan or private schools. We are fortunate to have a well-equipped and large gym on-campus. Athletics include volleyball, basketball and track (for both boys and girls).