Joining St. James: A Warm Welcome at Any Stage
Starting at a new school can bring a mix of excitement and uncertainty. For families joining St. James at a non-traditional entry point, one of the biggest questions is often: What will the transition actually feel like?
A Community That Welcomes You
One of the things families mention most is how quickly St. James begins to feel familiar. We try to be intentional about supporting that transition in simple, practical ways, such as pairing each new family with a mentor family, staying available to answer questions, and creating opportunities to connect. Each grade also has room parents who help keep families connected throughout the year.
Here are a few experiences shared by students and parents who have gone through that transition:
“So far, the year has been great. The students were welcoming and I felt like they accepted me with open arms. I’ve made a lot of new friends and connections.”
“Even before school started, the administration, faculty, and parents reached out to make sure everything went smoothly. We were welcomed into parent groups right away and had so many people willing to answer questions and help us settle in.”
“Our daughter transferred to St. James to begin her 6th grade year. Once my daughter’s acceptance letter arrived, we felt welcomed at St. James and part of a broader community immediately. We, and our daughter, couldn’t be happier with our decision. We just wish we’d found St. James sooner!”
Even families who joined during uncertain or challenging times describe a similar experience:
“We joined during the pandemic and I had never heard of the school. For some reason, it's a school that doesn't get much attention but after our kids joined they never wanted to leave. They made friends quickly, my wife and I also made friends with several families and we have never looked back. It was very satisfying that the big decision to change schools ended up being one of the best decisions we have made for our family.”
Academic Challenge, Personal Growth, and Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Along with the social transition, families often notice a shift in how their children engage with school itself. Small class sizes and close teacher relationships create space for both challenge and support, and students are encouraged to try new things both in and out of the classroom.
“Transferring into St James Lutheran School has been one of our family’s greatest blessings because of its welcoming community, rigorous academic programming in a small group setting, and many opportunities for extracurricular enrichment.”
“My new Maverick was thrilled to compete with St James’ volleyball and basketball teams, learn the art of public speaking with Toastmasters, and even work with friends to design and build a Rube-Goldberg style machine for a competition this spring. We’ve also taken advantage of before and after-school care which affords her a safe and happy place to get some homework done or socialize with friends while I’m finishing up my own work day.”
Every family’s path to St. James looks a little different, but many describe a similar outcome over time: their child settles in, builds relationships, and becomes part of the community in ways that feel natural.
“If I had one regret, it’d be that we hadn’t found this wonderful school even sooner. Of all the decisions I’ve made as a parent, choosing St James for our family is one that I’d make again and again without hesitation. As a mother and a veteran middle school teacher, I couldn’t recommend it more. I wish for you only God’s best as you consider all the wonderful possibilities that a St James education might mean for your family.”
