Academics
A California State Framework of Education
The Catholic Faith Community of St. James Academy weaves Christ's message into the fabric of each school day so that the whole child can develop in body, mind and spirit. Working within an educational program that integrates spiritual, moral, academic, social, cultural and physical precepts, the faculty and staff partner with parents in the education of each child.
Pre-School
Saint James Academy facilitates early childhood education through its preschool program. The program is aligned with California state kindergarten preparedness standards. Our Pre-K pre school functions as a gateway into the community. Visit the Pre-School webpage
Transitional K - 5th Grade
Our comprehensive primary school program is aimed at maximizing learning through a STEAM based learning curriculum. The goal is to reach and teach each individual student. Our Transitional TK through 5th grade students are set up to achieve!
6th - 8th Grade
Onward and upward in middle school. As our students advance towards high school, our focus is on preparedness for academic rigor and successful placement at choice schools. We balance our challenging work with fun that solidifies relationships that last a lifetime! Visit the SJA Junior High webpage.
Our Academic Approach
Curriculum
St. James Academy offers a comprehensive curriculum that is based on Catholic values, the Diocesan and California State Standards. We promote curiosity and learning in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Accreditations
St. James Academy is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Western Catholic Education Association. Faculty are fully credentialed; many with master’s degrees.
Memberships
Additionally, St. James Academy is a Member of National Catholic Education Association, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development.
Honors & Enrichment
Instrumental Instruction for 4th-8th grade
Music education for TK through grade 8
Progressive grade to grade writing program
Honors pre-algebra class in grade 7
Honors algebra in grade 8
Character Development
Inclusive Learning Environment
Spanish for Pre-School through grade 8
Balance & Beliefs
Religious instruction, celebrations and weekly liturgies
Sacramental prep in 2nd grade
Standard-based differentiated instruction
Computer education for Kindergarten through grade 6th
Science Lab for Kindergarten through grade 8th
Physical education for Preschool through grade 8th
Overnight retreats and camp for grades 4 - 8th
Electives for grades 7 - 8th
1:1 iPad TK - 2nd grade
1:1 Chromebook 3rd grade - 8th
Art Instruction Pre-School - 8th
Culture & Development
Citizenship
The students of St. James Academy exemplify the successful efforts of both parents and teachers in instilling high moral values and social consciousness. The children have a respect for authority, and responsiveness to those in need. Students are continually given opportunities to grow in self-responsibility. Rising to the challenge of developing their potential to the fullest, students undertake an impressive variety of creative, academic and outreach endeavors. Our inclusion program recognizes all forms of learning and fosters growth for every student. The students' educational experience is enriched by the diversity of culture among them.
Words from Our Families
Here are some of the testimonials we've heard over the years as we continue to follow in the footsteps of "A Higher Devotion to Excellence."
"One of the greatest benefits of a St. James Academy education is the commitment of faculty to continued personal growth."
"St. James Academy promotes a spirit of enthusiasm that fosters a sense of community thereby maintaining a strong Catholic mission."
"They integrate Christian values into the curriculum, with an emphasis on spiritual development, positive approach to discipline and community building activities."
"St. James Academy did an excellent job at incorporating a variety of supplemental texts, materials and methods to meet the needs of the students and their various learning styles!"