Curriculum & Culture
At St. John’s Parish Day School, we offer a culture of excellence that incorporates the best of Episcopal education while maintaining the highest academic standards. Children are encouraged to embrace challenges as they work to master key information, wrestle with abstract concepts, think critically, and develop skills in numerous disciplines.
Our efforts to create an exceptional caring culture are intentional and ever-present. Responsive Classroom techniques are used to teach the children to take care of themselves, each other, and the school environment. Students, including our preschoolers, spend time with a team of talented specialist teachers in STEM, Art, Music, Media & Information Literacy, Physical Education, Spanish, Chinese, and Instrumental Music. These classes are taught in separate classrooms designed for each area of study.
At St. John’s the classroom is merely a stepping-stone into the world around us. From venturing outside for science class to taking full advantage of our close proximity to Baltimore and Washington, DC, opportunities for wonder and discovery are limitless.
Community & Chapel
Children experience Chapel every day as an integral part of the social, emotional, and academic experience at St. John’s. Daily Chapel is a time of community, prayer, song, and reflection. We provide an atmosphere that fosters spiritual grounding in the Episcopal tradition with respect for the beliefs of all people of all faiths.
Our Teachers
To be a positive light in a child’s life is the ultimate goal for teachers at St. John’s. Our teaching staff come from impressive backgrounds and over 45% hold advanced degrees. They are the lifeblood of the school community and take a front-seat in decisions related to curriculum and daily life. The lessons our teachers create exceed National Standards. Our teachers are coveted for their creativity, dedication, talent, and connection with their students.
The spirit with which our teachers teach goes back in school history to our founding teacher, Betty Ford Umbach, who knew she
could offer a curriculum that surpassed that of the public schools. In September of 1965, after much preparation, building, and donations from parishioners, Mrs. Umbach opened with a parent and child tea party. From its humble beginnings until now, SJPDS continues to be a light unto all who attend.
Those who answer the call of teaching are special people. The faculty plays a central role in the life of an independent school and many parochial schools. Teachers’ talents, experience, and commitment to the school’s philosophy are vital.
Our teachers are captains of their ships. National, AIMS, and NAES standards are their compass, but at St. John’s our teachers are coveted for their creativity, dedication, talents, and connection with their students. Children can take a topic into uncharted waters in no time! St. John’s teachers are given the freedom to explore the uncharted waters. Go Bears!
Frankie the Therapy Dog
St. John’s Parish Day School was recently featured on WMAR 2 News in a special report highlighting our beloved therapy dog, Frankie.
Frankie is our three-legged pug mix who joined SJPDS alongside our Head of School, Mr. Springer. She was rescued from the streets of Los Angeles after being hit by a car, which resulted in the amputation of one of her front legs. Her journey is one of resilience, strength, and love.
Over the past year, Frankie has become an integral part of creating a safe, comforting, and joyful environment at SJPDS. Students visit her daily, bring her small gifts, and eagerly anticipate her classroom visits. Whether listening to a child read, sitting quietly during a moment of reflection, or simply offering her calm presence, Frankie brings a sense of peace and belonging to our campus.
Frankie may have three legs, but her physical difference has no impact on her speed, spirit, or ability to love. In fact, it has become a powerful lesson for our students. Through Frankie, they are learning that our differences make us beautiful and that every individual is worthy of love, dignity, and acceptance.
Click below to watch the full story and see how Frankie continues to touch hearts at St. John’s Parish Day School.