The most important quality we look for in our students is the potential to learn and to benefit from the school's mission and spirit. Personal qualities, academic aptitude, and the individual needs of each applicant are all considered. What unites our students is their desire to learn, and it is Saint Joseph's aim to give them the best possible education experience.
St. Joseph School, York welcomes children of all denominations.
In Brief
Saint Joseph School of York (SJS) is a Roman Catholic school and in the Diocese of Harrisburg. In 1914 SJS opened its doors and has been providing a quality and affordable education in York County, PA ever since. Our student body is currently 363 students.
In addition to our strong academic program being Middle States accredited, other important aspects of SJS are our community service outreach programs (Catholic Harvest Food Pantry, Jamaican Mission Trip, etc.) and co-curricular activities, including our sports teams and club organizations.
We pride ourselves in embracing and understanding that this is a learning time for our children both academically, spiritually and socially.
Parents are recognized as the primary educators of their children and they collaborate with teachers and administrators as partners in education. The school is sensitive to the needs of working families and provides morning breakfast for early student drop-offs, after school care and full-day kindergarten.
Listed below are links to resources found on this and the Diocesan's website that may help answer some of our frequently asked questions.
Our Catholic Identity
Catholic identity is integral to every concept of the Catholic school and not an added component. It is expressed in the daily experiences and interaction of our students, faculty, and administrators. It permeates the spirit and climate of SJS.
It is through daily morning prayer, prayer services, school liturgies, the sacraments, the integration of morals and values in academic studies, individual conduct, social interaction, and service to others that the school expresses its identity and reflects Jesus' message of love.
The school's mission statement (can be found on the homepage) emanates the basic philosophy for the school's existence. It is the mission statement that gives form to all decision-making and interaction. It is reflected in the school's programs, culture, faculty, students, and parents. Rooted in the Gospel, it exemplifies the identity of our Catholic school.
Why Consider a Catholic Education?
A Catholic education provides children with academic excellence enhanced with traditional Christian values. Catholic school teachers have the unique opportunity to mold every aspect of a child's growth and development. Foremost in this development is the spiritual - educators teach the message of Jesus. Through prayer, religious instruction, liturgies, and daily interaction, students become rooted in faith.
Hallmarks of Catholic schools include high academic standards, self discipline, safety, a sense of community and belonging. Teachers and staff model respect for all and an acceptance of each child's talents, abilities, and personal challenges. Educators create a safe, loving environment that encourages students to believe in their capabilities and to work toward their potential.
A variety of learning strategies are used to connect with the child's framework of understanding. A strong core curriculum is complemented with enrichment programs. Technology, music, art and athletic programs add to the diversity of a child's experiences and prepare the individual for an ever-changing world in which thinking is not only a habit, but a way of life.
As mentioned above SJS is Middle States accredited. Through this accreditation, we are recognized for our ongoing commitment to constantly seek new ways to better serve our students. The most recent report can be obtained by contacting our office.
Consider a Catholic education as a viable option to invest in your child's future. Financial assistance is available for qualified students.
Contact Information
To schedule a campus tour and/or learn more about SJS please contact our Director of Development.