School Spotlight: St. James Cathedral School

The Orlando area celebrates 1928 as the premier of “Steamboat Willie,” Mickey Mouse’s first sound cartoon. That year another groundbreaking event occurred in Orlando as well – the founding of St. James Cathedral School. At that time, the school served students from elementary through high school as priests and nuns educated Catholic students on the importance of a good education based in a religious context. Today, the teachers are just as dedicated to their ministry, guiding children from PreK all the way through middle school. Located in downtown Orlando, this Orlando private school in the Diocese of Orlando has a long tradition of quality education.The teaching staff has learned the importance of teaching using technology, collaborative learning, and small group learning.The learning foundation for students at St. James Cathedral School has three strong bases: education, spiritual discovery, and mentorship. Students strive to reach their own personal potential through lessons delivered via technology with a teacher-to-student ratio well below the Florida average. SJCS believes every child learns differently, and their style of learning is reflected in how lessons are presented. This methodology strengthens student confidence and raises the bar on expectations. Not surprisingly, SJCS students outperform state standards frequently.Preschoolers are introduced to the idea of learning through a hands-on curriculum. As they advance to kindergarten through second grade, students dive into technology with iPads, laptops, and interactive smart boards. These students are instructed through center-based learning and teacher-led lessons. In third through fifth grades, students rotate between six courses – math, language arts, reading, science, social studies, and religion – in center-based classrooms. Along with direct instruction, project-based learning includes critical thinking skills to enhance problem solving. Students who qualify for the Advanced Learning Program for Higher Achievement (ALPHA) are able to expand their learning through advanced curriculum. Middle school students are educated with a six-course curriculum that binds parents, teachers, and students in an open communication environment. Advanced classes at a high-school level are offered for students who meet the requirements.Learning is more than academics at St. James Cathedral School, though. Education includes developing the entire child spiritually, socially, physically, and academically. Their philosophy, “Come to Learn. Leave to Serve,” is embodied in all lessons. Catholic graduates are more likely to participate in community events and give to their churches, and SJCS alumni are no different. With an abundance of activities within the parish to serve those less fortunate, students are given the opportunity to share what they have. Their reward is a feeling of self-worth and the confidence that their help made a difference in their community.St. James Cathedral School is a nationally-recognized Blue Ribbon school and a member of the National Catholic Education Association. We would love to show you how our Orlando private school can benefit your child. Call 407-841-4432 to tour our school or speak with a counselor.