Educational Excellence

As we prepare to welcome our 100th incoming class, we celebrate a century of excellence
in Catholic education and service. St. Joseph School develops the whole student – mind, body and spirit – and prepares children for personal and academic success.

ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL

A Catholic community, St. Joseph School offers students a challenging academic education while building their love of God and commitment to improving the world. We encourage each child to become the person God calls him or her to be in a faith-filled, nurturing environment. Our community spirit is unequaled.

Excellent Academics

• Our graduates excel in high school, earning awards and scholarships:
• The 54 SJS alums that graduated from high school in 2009 earned honors, including six National Merit Award winners.
• Each year, SJS alums earn approximately $500,000 in college scholarships.
• Our average class size is 22 students, offering a personalized approach to learning.
• We have an award-winning faculty – St. Joseph School teachers were named Downers Grove “Teacher of the Year” in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009.
• Specialty learning centers help students excel in technology and fine arts.

Faith Formation

• Catholic values are emphasized in all spiritual, educational and extracurricular activities.
• All-school Masses, celebrated on Tuesdays and Holy Days at 8:15 am, give eighth grade students the opportunity to take an active role as lectors, sacristans and ushers, while students from all grades participate in other parts of Mass.
• Sacramental preparation is incorporated into the school day.
• Students participate in prayer services, rosary, Stations of the Cross, May Crowning and Reconciliation.
• Service projects help students live their faith and are built into the curricula.

Extracurricular Activities

• Extended Care/K-Club offer students an extended day of 7 am-6 pm – a convenient option for working parents.
• A no-cut sports program is offered to students in grades 5 - 8, including volleyball, football, basketball and track; instructional volleyball and basketball are offered to the lower grades.
• Representative students from grades 5 - 8 can be part of Student Council, which sponsors student and community outreach activities.
• Liturgical Choir includes students in grades 5 - 8; its role is leading the congregation in song at all-school Mass.
• Hand Bell Choir is open to students in grades 5 - 8; it performs at some all-school Masses and at Christmas.
• Students can train to be altar servers in 5th grade; they serve weekend, school Masses, weddings and funerals.
• Band is offered to students beginning in 4th grade; it is incorporated into the school day.
• Boy/Girl Scouts are open to all St. Joseph students beginning as early as Kindergarten or 1st grade.
• Miscellaneous: Piano is available to K - 3 students; Chess Club is open to grades 3 - 8 and staff; Book Club and Writing Club are available in some grades based on parent volunteers.

Parental Support

• School Board is an advisory group that meets monthly with the principal, president and pastor regarding the policy and progress of the school; nine board members hold positions for three years.
• Parent Forum coordinates volunteers for school programs and special events.
• The Athletic and Booster organization coordinates athletic programs.
• There are a variety of other opportunities for parents to be involved based on time availability and interests.