Tradition

Traditions are woven into the life of Saint James’ Episcopal School. From the Episcopal services we proudly observe to the special events and programs that have been celebrated for generations, our traditions connect students and families to one another and to those who came before them. They help build the strong sense of community that makes Saint James’ so special—and they are also a lot of fun!

Children don't just attend Saint James'. They become part of something.

Convocation

The first day of elementary school begins with one of our most meaningful traditions: Convocation in the sanctuary of Saint James’ Episcopal Church. Together, we welcome new and returning students and mark the beginning of another school year. The school chaplain and rector of Saint James' Episcopal Church, Father Ben, offers a special blessing for our faculty and staff, followed by a blessing of the students as we send them into the year ahead.

All-School Chapel

Once a month, our preschool and elementary students come together with their Buddies for All-School Chapel in the church sanctuary. Filled with prayer, music, reflection, and the joyful sight of our youngest and oldest students worshiping side by side, All-School Chapel strengthens the connections across our School and celebrates our shared Episcopal identity.

GRANDFRIEND DAY

Grandfriend Days are among the most joyful days of the school year! Students welcome grandparents and other special friends to Saint James’ for a glimpse into their school day. Together, they visit classrooms, participate in worship, and share some of the people, places, and experiences that make Saint James’ special. It is a wonderful opportunity for students to proudly share their school and for Grandfriends to make memories alongside them.

A saint james' Thanksgiving

A beloved Saint James’ tradition since the School’s founding in 1982, our annual Preschool Thanksgiving Program brings students and families together in our Parish Hall for a joyful celebration of gratitude and community. Fifth-grade students serve as narrators, while each preschool class shares a special song or poem. Following the program, students and their families gather for a special Thanksgiving luncheon at tables decorated with creations made by the children. For generations of Saint James’ families, the Preschool Thanksgiving Program has become a treasured part of their school experience. Preschool alumni—some now parents of current students—continue to remember the tradition with great affection.

Christmas at saint james'

Our annual Christmas Programs are a beloved Saint James’ tradition and a joyful celebration of the Christmas season. Held in the beautiful sanctuary of Saint James’ Episcopal Church, separate Preschool and Elementary performances bring the story of the Nativity to life as students portray its familiar characters and fill the church with Christmas carols. These special performances have been a treasured way to celebrate the birth of Jesus and share the joy of the season together since our founding.

Breakfast with Dad

Another cherished Preschool tradition, Breakfast with Dad, takes place each winter. Fathers or special friends accompany students to the Parish Hall for a breakfast buffet and special one-on-one time before class. Children also proudly present their guests with special gifts they have made just for them. It is a simple but meaningful tradition that gives our youngest students the chance to share a little piece of their school day with someone special.

Mother's Day Tea

One of our longest-standing and most cherished preschool traditions is Mother’s Day Tea. Mothers or special friends are seated at tables in the Parish Hall adorned with students’ handmade crafts while each class performs a special song or poem on the stage. The performance is followed by sweet treats for students and guests. It is a joyful morning filled with proud smiles, special moments, and memories that families treasure long after the preschool years.

Follow Me Ceremony & Fifth Grade Graduation

The school year comes full circle in the same sanctuary where it began. At our cherished Follow Me & Fifth Grade Graduation ceremony, we celebrate our fifth graders as they prepare to leave Saint James’ and begin their next chapter. In one of the ceremony’s most meaningful moments, the cross is passed from one grade to the next, symbolizing the younger students following in the footsteps of those who came before them and carrying Saint James’ traditions forward.

Join our school. Become part of our traditions.

At Saint James’, traditions connect generations, create lasting memories, and give every student a sense of belonging. We invite your family to become part of the Saint James’ story and perhaps one day look back on these traditions as some of your most treasured memories.