On Tuesday, August 26, Saint Joseph School joyfully opened its doors to students in Grades 1–8 for the start of the 2025–2026 academic year. As cars pulled up for morning drop-off, students were warmly welcomed by student members of the AAA Safety Patrol, faculty, staff, and the beloved school mascot, JoJo, setting the tone for a joyful and faith-filled return.
The first morning was spent in homerooms, where students reviewed classroom expectations, school-wide policies, and important safety protocols, including evacuation procedures and the Technology Acceptable Use Policy, which outlines appropriate use of school-issued devices and guidance on Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. Students also revisited Saint Joseph School's Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan, reinforcing the school's mission of Religion, Respect, and Responsibility.
This year, Saint Joseph School introduced a new Cell Phone and Personal Device Policy for students. In an effort to foster a calm, focused, and spiritually enriching environment, the school has implemented a cell phone ban during school hours. Numerous studies highlight how smartphones and social media hinder academic focus and student well-being. Limited exceptions to the policy are granted for medical needs, learning accommodations (IEP/504), accessibility tools, and students walking to school or commuting via school bus—however, all require a Device Permit Form signed by the principal. Approved devices must be turned off and stored securely during the school day.
The first day culminated in a lively, school-wide assembly. Eighth grade students were honored by Principal Mrs. Beth Boudreau and their homeroom teacher, Mrs. Mary Ann Weaver, as they celebrated their "last first day" at Saint Joseph School. Their younger peers welcomed them with cheers and music that had the whole school clapping along, while the eighth grade students received red beads from Mrs. Weaver. Mrs. Boudreau also introduced the entire 2025–2026 teaching staff, followed by a dialogue with students about school policies and expectations. Middle School students were further recognized for successfully completing their summer academic assignments.
Later that evening, families of Pre-K and Kindergarten students attended an orientation night that began with a warm welcome from the principal. Parents then visited their children's classrooms, where teachers provided key information to ensure a successful start.
On Wednesday, August 27, the excitement continued as this year's Kindergarten class – now at capacity with 24 students – arrived for their first day of school. Led by classroom teacher Mrs. Alicia Maurer and teaching assistant Mrs. Sandra Gibson, the students stepped confidently into their new roles as Saint Joseph School Kindergarten students.
On Thursday, August 28, Saint Joseph School welcomed full-time Pre-K 3-year-old students as well as those in the 4-year-old Pre-K program. Next week, students in the 2-day and 3-day 3-year-old programs will also have their special first days of school.
To help families of older students stay informed, a Parent Orientation Night for families of students in Grades 1–8 will be held on Wednesday, September 3 at 6:00 p.m. in the school gymnasium. This event will offer an overview of school expectations, curriculum updates, and a chance to meet teachers.
To mark the beginning of this exciting new year, families, friends, and parishioners are warmly invited to our first Family Mass on Sunday, September 7 at 9:00 a.m. During this celebration, faculty and staff will be formally introduced to the parish community and will publicly take their Oath of Fidelity as Catholic educators.
With a 15% increase in enrollment this year, Saint Joseph School is filled with renewed energy, faith, and enthusiasm. We are blessed to welcome so many returning families and new faces into our school community and look forward to a year of growth, joy, and shared purpose.
