Tradition
Saint James' Episcopal School lives in the present, looks to the future, and honors traditions. From the Episcopal services we proudly observe to the special events and programs established over the years that have become an integral part of our School, SJES believes traditions are important in building a strong, connected school community. They are also a lot of fun.
Saint James’ Episcopal Church Services
We hold many of our important occasions in Saint James' Episcopal Church. For example, we begin the first day of elementary school with a Convocation service in the church sanctuary to welcome new and returning families. We also open every school day for elementary students with prayer and song during a morning assembly that is held in the side chapel of the Church. In addition, our elementary students attend the Church’s regular Wednesday service, and their own student-led services one Wednesday per month. Finally, Saint James’ Episcopal Church celebrates a special service every January that includes SJES students in all aspects of worship. Families and friends are always welcome at all of our church services.
Thanksgiving Luncheon
We hold our annual Preschool Thanksgiving program in the church’s Parish Hall. The story of the first Thanksgiving is narrated by our fifth grade students and each preschool class performs a song, poem or scripture piece. Students dress as pilgrims, native Americans, turkeys, and more. After the performance, a special Thanksgiving luncheon is served at tables that have been decorated by the students. Our Preschool alumni, some of them parents of current students, remember this program with great affection.
Christmas Pageants
We hold our annual Christmas programs in Saint James' Episcopal Church. There are two performances - one by preschool students and one by elementary students. In each performance students re-enact the nativity of Jesus Christ in costume and sing Christmas carols. Parents and families look forward to attending these performances every year.
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 tea, lemonade, finger sandwiches and sweet treats for students and guests.
Breakfast with Dad
Another cherished Preschool tradition, Breakfast with Dad, takes place every winter. Fathers or special friends accompany students to the Parish Hall for a breakfast buffet and one-on-one time before class. Special gifts are made by the children during class that day.
Other Treasured Events
Some of our other special Preschool traditions are Fall Festival, Grand Friends Day, Field Day, and the Pre-kindergarten Moving Up Ceremony. The Elementary students always look forward to Field Day, the annual Halloween Parade, the Elementary “Follow Me” and Fifth Grade Graduation ceremonies, as well as monthly community service projects.