Project Learning Tree, Christmas pageants and early admissions at Saint James’ Episcopal School

Advent is always a special time at Saint James’ Episcopal School. The building is filled with joyful anticipation as students prepare for Christmas through music, storytelling, and acts of kindness. Classrooms are adorned with artwork and nativity scenes, and the sound of children learning and singing beloved hymns can be heard throughout the hallways. It is a meaningful and hope-filled season that reflects the shared ministry of our School and Church.

This year, we celebrate an exciting milestone: Saint James’ Episcopal School has been officially designated a Project Learning Tree (PLT) Green School! This recognition reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and outdoor learning. Our new student group, the PLT Green School Investigators, has already begun meeting and will help guide ongoing sustainability efforts — from energy awareness to gardening to waste reduction — ensuring that we maintain this designation in thoughtful, hands-on ways.

Outdoor learning continues through several beloved school programs. Our baby trout, part of the Trout in the Classroom program, are growing and thriving under careful observation by our elementary students, who monitor their water quality and habitat conditions each week. 

As we prepare for Christmas, we extend warm holiday blessings to our entire Saint James’ Church family! A treasured tradition of the season is our children’s Christmas pageants, where preschool and elementary students lovingly portray the nativity story. These performances will be live-streamed and available on the School’s YouTube channel for those who would like to watch from home.

The School will be closed from Dec. 19 to Jan. 5. Faculty, staff, and students return on Jan. 6.

January marks the start of admissions for the 2026-2027 school year. Saint James’ parishioners receive a special benefit: The opportunity to apply from Jan. 21 to 31, when our current school families select their classes. While early application does not guarantee admission or first choice of class, parishioners may apply before admissions open to the public on Feb. 1 (the standard application fee still applies). Parishioners who are interested in applying are encouraged to complete the Early Application Request Form for Parishioners by Jan. 16.

We invite the Church community to help spread the word regarding our upcoming admission events!

Open House

Jan. 22 • 5-7 p.m.

Families are invited to tour classrooms, meet teachers, and learn more about our unique learning environment—including our chickens and beloved Trout in the Classroom! RSVP required.

Preschool Pop-In

Jan. 23 • 9:30-10:30 a.m.

For prospective children ages 2–4 and their caregivers. Guests will experience music class, hear a story, complete a simple craft, and enjoy playtime in the preschool environment. RSVP required.

If you know families who may be seeking a nurturing and joyful school environment, we hope you will share these opportunities with them.

May the light of Christ bless you all this season!