The Mission of St. James Catholic School is to work in partnership with parents to provide a Christ-centered, safe, and creative environment for learning. Students grow toward their spiritual, intellectual, emotional and physical potential.
Our school is a great place to learn. We offer a Christian/Catholic based environment for preschoolers through fifth grade. I encourage you to explore our website to learn a little more about us. I am happy to take time to meet with you and answer any questions. |
Our School History
Sisters Clara, Corsina, and Alberta of the Franciscan Order could not know or imagine the present day school that
would evolve from the one they came to from Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1906. The McMinnville citizenry during a dedication
of the school warmly received them. The two-story frame building opened with a student body of around 30 youngsters. The
present building was built in 1949. The school was staffed by the Sisters of St. Francis until the early 80's when they
were called back to their Order. The school educated children in grades 1-8 until the grades were reduced to 5th grade.
Later additions include a present day full day Kindergarten, preschool and after school care program. Legacy and
tradition of Catholic education is well established and we are still educating young lives today. Presently, our
teaching staff of eleven educators and several support staff carry on our legacy.
Today our school is a nine room facility with six classrooms, a library, a multi-use room (music, preschool, extended care space) and a full-sized gym and cafeteria across the plaza. Our teachers are certified through Teachers Standards and Practices of Oregon. St. James School was re-accredited in 2005 by the Western Catholic Education Association and Northwest Association of Accredited Schools and is registered with the State of Oregon. We have cooperative efforts with Linfield College education program to enhance the opportunities for our students.