WHY WE CHOSE ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL

It is difficult to measure the impact a school has on its students. St. Joseph School influenced my life for eight years during my attendance, and continues to affect me in a number of ways today. It provided a foundation for my beliefs, both spiritual and physical. The teachers provided a first-class education in an open environment where children acquired not only scholastic skills, but also learned they have a purpose beyond books. I became a part of a Catholic community that encouraged faith, hope, and love. The school allowed for the development of self-confidence among peers and reinforced a set of values taught at home. These lessons will stay with me as I move through life and begin teaching my own children. I treasure the time I spent at St. Joseph’s, where I met life-long friends and became the person I am today.

Kathryn A. Grace, Class of 1994

I sought out St. Joseph School after my oldest son had been in public school for three years. I knew we needed the best education available for my children to be competitive later in life and we found that in SJS. The mission and philosophy of the school was the firm foundation my children’s education was built upon and that has served them well throughout their educational careers and now in their professional lives. I wouldn’t trade one day of those years because each day so enriched all of our lives and we cherish each memory today.

Leslie S. Croson, Parent of Matthew Class of 1993, Michael Class of 1996

Our decision to move our family from Michigan to Virginia would bring major changes to our lives. As the mother of a ten year old boy and a thirteen year old girl, I was sure that the move would have the greatest impact on our children. Our entire family visited six local Catholic schools, as well as our local public schools to be sure we found the best education and environment for our children. Upon visiting St. Joseph School, our family made the unanimous decision that we had found the right school.

St. Joseph has exceeded our high expectations! Under the strong leadership and guidance of the principal, Mrs. Joan Cargill, the faculty teaches our children with the highest degree of academic excellence. The teachers have made an incredible impact on our children. We are pleased to see our Catholic faith demonstrated daily by the faculty and staff. St. Joseph School fosters a welcoming attitude of community which makes all students feel included, and allowed our children to quickly experience a sense of belonging.

We are certain that St. Joseph School is the right choice for our children to receive an outstanding education in a faith filled academic environment. We are proud to be a part
of the St. Joseph School community.

Laura Horwath, New SJS Parent 08-09

When I heard there was a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence in the Herndon area, I was ecstatic. Very few schools in the nation are bestowed with this prestigious award and I had wondered if I would every find one close enough for my son to attend. Having had my son in public school the last few years was very frustrating in terms of teacher quality and the low academic expectations. At St. Joseph’s, I feel like I’m home for the first time in years. The staff and teachers at SJS are phenomenal! My advice to anyone considering a quality education for their son or daughter would be to enroll them immediately in SJS. Wow, what a school!

Jeff Carey, New SJS Parent 08-09

From the moment our children walked through the door, they were loved. They were taught faith and spirituality, taught to have loving hearts with their schoolmates, and taught respect for their community. They were challenged academically and celebrated when they achieved personal success. Our children were very different and for each of them, St. Joseph School was a place where they were encouraged by every staff and faculty member to their reach their individual potential. We are certain that the very strong educational beginning our children received at St. Joseph’s has a great deal to do with their academic strength throughout high school and college. St. Joseph School really does offer the whole package!

Colleen and Larry Leber, Parent of Casey- Class of’’97, Dan- Class of ‘97, & Larry- Class of ‘01

I was one of the original St. Joseph parents. I know I had found the best school for my son and daughter. I wanted a Catholic foundation for their lives. But I also found wonderful and supportive teachers and friends. But most importantly, as a retired teacher from O’Connell, I can honestly say that my best students came from St. Joseph School.

Rose LeBoeuf., Parent of Gibson-Class of ’89, Grandparent of Class of 2014/2015

Moving to a new school in 7th grade was a difficult decision for our daughter. I am pleased to say that she couldn’t be happier at St. Joseph’s; it was the right decision for her. Everyone – the students and their families, the teachers and the administrators have made her feel welcomed and valued; the school spirit is very genuine. As parents we are pleased that high academic standards are met with solid teaching methods. We feel fortunate to be at St. Joe’s for middle school.

Eileen McCaffrey, New SJS Parent 08-09

St. Joseph’s was home for 8 years. I not only received the best education available from the top school
in the area but I made life long friends. SJS will always hold a special place in my heart. I have the
opportunity to check in with the SJS family almost on a weekly basis today as a Herndon Police Officer
and there is nothing better than witnessing the continuing tradition of excellence Mrs. Cargill and all
the teachers and staff give the next generation of “Saints.”

Officer Michael Croson, Class of 1996