Transitional K – 5th Grade

Building strong academic foundations while nurturing the whole child in body, mind, and spirit.

Primary Education

Where Learning Comes Alive

At St. James Academy, our elementary program provides a student-centered, Catholic-based curriculum which values cultural and intellectual diversity in our commitment to excellence. We set high academic standards and challenge our students while nurturing their spiritual growth.

Our small class sizes with an 8:1 student-to-aide ratio ensure that each child receives personalized attention and support. Every grade has dedicated aides, making each classroom feel like a small family where students treat each other with respect and kindness.

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Elementary students at St. James Academy
TK–5
Primary Program
Core Curriculum

STEAM & Standards-Based Learning

Our comprehensive curriculum builds strong foundations in core subjects while fostering creativity and critical thinking.

Language Arts

Reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary instruction that builds strong communication skills and a love of literature.

Mathematics

Solid foundations in math basics including computation, problem-solving, and mathematical reasoning aligned with state standards.

Science

Hands-on exploration and discovery through STEAM curriculum, including our outdoor learning environment and indigenous garden.

Social Studies

History, geography, and civics instruction that helps students understand their world and their place in it.

Religion

Daily faith formation weaving Christ’s message into every school day, with weekly all-school mass where Jr. High mentors younger students.

Spanish

Foreign language instruction beginning in elementary grades, building bilingual skills and cultural awareness.

Enrichment Programs

Developing the Whole Child

Beyond academics, our Social Emotional Learning enrichment programs nurture creativity, physical fitness, and leadership skills.

Performing Arts & Choir

Award-winning program with Carnegie Hall performance opportunities

Visual Arts

Art instruction in every grade with San Diego Fair “Best in Show” winners

Physical Education

Fit to Lead program developing teamwork, confidence, and conflict resolution

Outdoor Learning

Indigenous garden and Monarch Butterfly sanctuary for hands-on environmental education. Edible garden just outside.

What Sets Us Apart

Small Classes, Big Impact

Each grade has a dedicated aide making the student-to-teacher ratio 8:1. Each class feels like a small family, and the students treat each other with respect and kindness. Children are inclusive of others, are taught how to handle difficult situations, and learn great values with emphasis on educating the “whole child.”

8:1
Student-Aide Ratio
100%
HS Placement Rate
Weekly
All-School Mass
Above
Average Test Scores
Student focused on learning
School Community

More Than a School — A Family

Parents are incredibly involved and present on campus throughout the year through a variety of events.

Mentorship Program

Jr. High students sit with K-2nd graders during weekly mass, acting as mentors and role models.

Family Events

Fun activities and events throughout the year that bring everyone together and make school feel like family.

Parent Partnership

Parents work closely with faculty and administration to provide the best education for every student.

Give Your Child the Best Foundation

Schedule a tour to see our primary school program in action and experience our welcoming community.