Head of School
Dear Families and Friends,
It seems like just yesterday that my husband and I toured Saint James’ searching for the perfect foundation for our children. I can honestly say that, although it was more than 17 years ago, Saint James’ still has that same special feeling as you walk through the doors, the feeling of family, the feeling of inclusion, and the feeling of a safe and nurturing school for your child. We knew then that this school was perfect for our family - and coincidentally, I never left! I had the opportunity to serve on the School Board for three years before becoming Head of School in 2009. It has been my privilege to be a part of the addition of our elementary program, the completion of a successful Capital Campaign, and the renovation of preschool space and new wing for grades 1-5 which opened in the winter of 2018. Amidst all these changes, that feeling I had when I first walked through the doors has never wavered and neither has our mission.
At Saint James' Episcopal School we take great pride and pleasure in the open and welcoming nature of our entire school community. Students, their families and guests are always gladly received. We know that, for many of our youngest students, Saint James' is their very first experience at any school. We are honored that families have shared their children with us during these early learning years and believe it is our duty to enrich every child's growth academically, physically, and spiritually.
Saint James’ faculty and staff are called to create and nurture an academic community of faith regardless of creed, and we actively promote positive relationships to encourage each child's sense of individual worth. Saint James' fosters the growth of the whole child - mind, body, and spirit - and promotes an enduring love of learning. Our solid and successful preschool philosophy is the foundation on which our thriving elementary program was built. Focusing on the foundational years and ending at fifth grade, we are able to foster extraordinary elementary graduates. At Saint James’, our students don't just meet our challenging academic standards, they also grow spiritually and morally. This winning combination of high expectations, encouraged curiosity and caring beyond oneself are foundational stepping stones to a lifetime of open-minded and open-hearted learning. We empower our students to excel, not only in the classroom, but also in life. With Christ as our center, we are called to love and respect one another and to build a foundation for a rewarding life of service.
As Head of School and as a parent, I understand the importance of choosing the right early childhood educational setting and appreciate you considering Saint James’. I invite you to come visit our school and look forward to sharing all that my own family has come to embrace and cherish in Saint James' Episcopal School.
Sincerely,
Stacey Irvin, Head of School