At St. James, our athletics program exists to give every student the opportunity to participate, grow, and thrive through sports. Every student at St. James has the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of physical activities. Since there is a direct relationship between mental development and physical health, daily exercise is incorporated into the routines of every classroom. Thus, a life-long appreciation for physical fitness begins as students are exposed to many different games and sports.

We believe athletics help students discover activities they’re passionate about—ones that inspire lifelong enjoyment and healthy living. Through teamwork and competition, students learn to build strong relationships, develop resilience, and handle both victories and challenges with grace.



Our goal is to create a positive, Christ-centered environment where every child can learn new skills, practice good sportsmanship, and participate fully in both practices and games. We strive to model and encourage a spirit of care and respect—for teammates, coaches, and even our opponents—that rises above the simple desire to win.

In addition to physical activities, a healthy lifestyle is promoted through classroom instruction including such topics as nutrition, safety, hygiene and basic physiology. Students learn about food groups and healthy eating habits. They learn about medicines, drugs, alcohol and making safe choices. Students also learn about personal cleanliness and disease prevention. In addition, students learn about their bodies and God’s marvelous plan for how all our parts function as a unit. 



Our counseling team plays a key role in supporting students’ social and emotional growth. In classrooms, we teach lessons that help students build empathy, manage emotions, and strengthen relationships. We also meet with students individually and/or in small groups and work closely with teachers to create caring, inclusive classroom communities. In partnership with CPS, we make sure that IEPs and 504 Plans are properly implemented and that every student gets the support they need.

One of our favorite ways to connect with students is through Lunch Bunch! These small group lunches bring together 4–6 students to practice social skills, build friendships, and talk about topics like kindness, communication, and inclusion. Groups rotate throughout the year so students have the chance to connect with different peers in a relaxed, supportive setting.

We also partner with parents through our monthly newsletter, book club, and family workshops. Our goal is to strengthen our school community, build a shared language around social-emotional growth, and help families better understand how these important skills develop both at school and at home.