Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT SIZE ARE THE CLASSES?

Classes are usually 15-18 students at St. John’s Episcopal School. This allows teachers to have time for each child as well as both large group and small group instruction.

WHICH GRADES ARE INCLUDED IN THE SCHOOL?

We have Pre-School 3’s (three-year-olds) through 8th grade.

HOW MANY STUDENTS AND FACULTY/STAFF MEMBERS DOES ST. JOHN’S HAVE?

We have approximately 135 students and 28 faculty/staff members.

WHAT KIND OF SCHOOL IS THIS?

St. John’s is a non-profit school which does not receive either federal or state funds.  As such, we are a hybrid school which has an both an exemplary academic program combined with a long-standing faith foundation in the Episcopal tradition of Chapel and chapel programs. These, along with other outstanding classes, activities, and learning experiences, makes St. John’s such a unique school unlike others–a Christian school which emphasizes academics.

WHICH CURRICULUM DO YOU USE?

ELAR: The excellent Carden Curriculum is the course of study which we follow. It is tried and true, and our students have a real “running start” with Carden. Recognized as an outstanding course of study, Carden schools are found wherever parents and educators desire a challenging yet satisfying curriculum.

Math: We also use Saxon Math for Kindergarten through 8th Grade.  Saxon Math is a cyclical curriculum which allows students to constantly review new and old concepts through out the year.

Science: Nancy Larson Science Curriculum has been adopted for Kindergarten through 5th grades.  This is a knowledge-based program that is rigorous, hands-on, and cross-curricular.  Our Middle School students use textbooks published through McGraw Hill.  6th and 7th grade study integrated science and 8th graders study Biology.

WHAT ABOUT TEACHERS?

Faculty and staff members are very competent and highly qualified, and our teachers are degreed and certified. They enjoy school, and teaching children. Enthusiastic and optimistic, the teachers and staff members make education challenging as well as inviting.

WHEN DOES SCHOOL START? WHAT TIME DOES MY CHILD NEED TO BE THERE?

School starts in the middle of August.  When planning the school calendar, we try our very best to align with the ECISD calendar. All students need to be in the gym by 8:15 am, as classes begin at 8:30 am.

DO THE CHILDREN NEED TO WEAR SPECIAL CLOTHING?

No, the children should wear clothing appropriate for school and for the playground. Running shoes are better than dress shoes or sandals.

WHAT ABOUT LUNCH?

The children bring lunches the first week of school. Later, lunches will be catered, and the children may buy those, or they may continue to bring lunches.

WHEN DO I MAKE PAYMENTS FOR TUITION?

St. John’s has a yearly tuition/fee amount which can be paid in full by July 1st and receive a 5% discount, pay in 11 monthly payments (July – May) or pay in 12 monthly payments (July – June).

DO I NEED A LIST FOR SCHOOL SUPPLIES?

No, you do not. All supplies (even snacks) are furnished.

HOW WILL I KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON AT SCHOOL?

Teachers communicate willingly and often with parents. A newsletter is published weekly and is sent digitally through email, posted on Instagram and Facebook, as well as posted on our website. The newsletter will be sent home with students on occasion.  Parents will also receive specific information at Parent Orientation (held at the beginning of the school year), text messages and letters from teachers throughout the year.

WHEN DO THE STUDENTS HAVE CHAPEL?

We have Chapel every morning; Mon./Wed. Chapel is 4’s through 2nd grade; Tues./Thurs. Chapel is 3rd – 8th grade; and Friday is 4’s -8th grade All School Chapel. Pre-School 3’s have Chapel in their classroom throughout the week. Doctrine is not taught; rather, children learn Bible stories, hymns, and worship songs.

WHAT IS SO GREAT ABOUT ST. JOHN’S?

St. John’s emphasizes developing the mind, body, and spirit. The greatest benefit is daily blessings which God bestows on each of us through the school experience.