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Articles - Spotlight on Education St. Joseph’s Catholic
School By Leslie Poythress Unique! This is the word often used to describe St. Joseph’s Catholic School origin. In 1872, the pastor of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Reverend Basin, offered use of the church basement to the newly formed public school Board of Education to be used as classrooms. Listed as the "Fourth Street School" on public school records, St. Joseph’s began as the first unit of the public school system of Macon. Two Sisters of Mercy taught at the school, but were not permitted to teach religion during the school day, therefore they taught religion after school. The school has been in existence as St. Joseph’s School since 1902, and has been in its present location since 1953. Located in the historic district of Macon, Saint Joseph’s School continues to have a prominent place in the local community. It continues to thrive, cherishing its rich history, but accepting the challenges of the new millennium. Father John Cuddy, St. Joseph’s Pastor, and Principal Nan Gillespie lead the kindergarten through sixth grade school in its quest to "make a world of difference" with each of their students. A school board that consists of parents, the principal, the assistant principal, and the pastor, serves in an advisory position to determine school policy. Their goal is to help shape the school community, providing the necessary resources to ensure a nurturing, safe, Christ-centered environment, and supporting and furthering the mission of the school. St. Joseph’s has a staff of thirty-five who are dedicated to the mission of the school: St. Joseph’s School strives to guide the student in the development of his/her total person, thus encompassing the spiritual, moral, intellectual, physical, social and emotional facets of the individual. Through the integration of faith and culture, the school strives to prepare the student to participate as a responsible member of the Church and society. The academic program is structured to help students become valued, contributing members of society. Math, reading, and religion are the key academic subjects along with science, social studies, and language. Art, music, physical education, and computer instruction supplement the curriculum. In art class, students study the basic elements of design and experience many different art materials and techniques. To help prepare students for the technological future that lies ahead, students are immersed in computer instruction at all levels. As early as third grade, students create Power Point presentations and web pages are constructed by sixth grade. Students are challenged by teachers on a daily basis as they work to impart knowledge, respect, core beliefs and values into their students. A part-time academic support teacher is available to work with students who need assistance with their schoolwork. Extracurricular activities and clubs are organized to provide students with leadership opportunities at various levels. The Student Council is made up of representatives from each class and officers from the sixth grade. The students coordinate community service projects. A Christmas Child Drive was held during the holiday season when students collected gifts for children. Mary’s Children is an organization for students who desire to become more active in their spiritual life. Parental involvement at SJS is strong. An active Home and School Association sponsors events throughout the year including field day and a Fall Festival. The organization also raises funds to support classroom instruction. Each class has at least two room mothers who organize field trips, class parties, and arts and craft activities for the children. The parents in each grade provide a monthly luncheon for the teachers to show their appreciation. The school has recently begun a capital campaign, the Labor of Love, to renovate the building both inside and out. Planned improvements include replacement of the heating and air systems, renovation of the kitchen area and classrooms, the addition of a gym/assembly area, and remodeling the outside of the facility. St. Joseph’s School is celebrating its 50th year at its current location. All of the Crusaders are proud of the rich heritage of their school and its strong Catholic identity. St. Joseph’s continues to serve the Middle Georgia community with the same tradition of excellence started over 100 years ago. 905 High Street |
