Religious Identity

Saint Joseph Academy is a Catholic school in the Dominican tradition. In addition to offering an exemplary academic program, SJA welcomes children of all faith traditions.


students at end-of-year prayer service

We are proud to offer your child the opportunity to develop a relationship with God appropriate to his/her age level, to learn about the goodness and dignity of all children and to be in positive relationship with others and with the earth.

The Montessori program teaches Christian beliefs through developmentally appropriate methods. Peace education including conflict resolution, lessons in kindness, courtesy and helpfulness are modeled and taught throughout the day. Christian holidays and prayer are incorporated into the school experience.

In the elementary and middle school program, religious education is grounded in Catholic beliefs, values, and ritual, and is enriched by the exploration of the beliefs, values, and ritual of a variety of diverse cultures and belief systems.

All children in grades 1 through 8, attend religious education classes.  The curriculum contains selected segments from the Faith First, Legacy Edition, published by Resources for Christian Living.  For more information about the curriculum, visit www.faithfirst.com.

The curriculum complements sacramental preparation and religious education in local parishes.  In keeping with common Church practice, initiation into the sacraments is handled within the parish.

Prayer is an essential part of each school day; its form reflects the liturgical seasons of the year.  In addition, the school community celebrates Mass at least monthly.  Non-Catholic students are invited, though not required, to participate at some level in Catholic liturgical celebrations.  Parents who explicitly request that their children not participate may make alternate arrangements for release time from school. 

Children of all ages actively participate in community service projects that promote non-violent peacemaking and concern for the poor and most vulnerable of our society.