Spring Musical The musical is a lively and collaborative production where students bring a story to life through acting, singing, and sometimes dancing. It showcases the students' creativity, teamwork, and talent while providing an opportunity to learn about stage performance and theater production. The process usually involves auditions, rehearsals, set design, costumes, and backstage crew roles. It’s a fun and educational experience that allows students to express themselves artistically, build confidence, and bond with their peers. Performances are typically held for the school community, family, and friends, creating a memorable event for everyone involved.
Reading and the Rosary Separate boys and girls groups meet to pray the Rosary and discuss books. This is a great opportunity for students to enhance their faith, gain reading skills and new vocabulary, and enjoy the fellowship of their peers.
Student Council Seventh and eighth grade students represent the student body and contribute to school activities and decisions. Student council serves as a platform for leadership development, teamwork, and civic engagement. Student council members may organize events, fundraisers, or work on projects to improve the school environment, and communicate student concerns to teachers and administrators. Eighth graders who served on the council in seventh grade are eligible for an officer position of president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary. Student council is a great opportunity for students to practice collaboration, problem-solving, and decision-making while making a positive impact on their school.
Spelling Bee Interested students in 4th - 6th grades compete in an internal spelling bee. The winner will then represent St. James School at the Diocese of Pittsburgh spelling bee.
Forensics The forensics club fosters skills in public speaking, critical thinking, and performance. Students participate in activities like debates, dramatic readings, persuasive speeches, or poetry recitation. The club helps members develop confidence, improve communication abilities, and learn how to articulate ideas effectively. Members may work on individual pieces or team events, practice writing and delivery, and/or compete in local or regional meets. The environment is supportive and engaging, encouraging creativity and self-expression while emphasizing teamwork.
PJAS (Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science) PJAS stands for the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science. It is a statewide organization that encourages middle school students to engage in scientific research and present their findings. Students participate in regional and state-level competitions, where they showcase their projects to judges and receive feedback. The goal of PJAS is to promote interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields while helping students develop critical thinking, research, and presentation skills.
FIRST LEGO League The FIRST LEGO League is a global robotics program designed to introduce students to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through hands-on learning and exciting competitions. Participants develop critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while embracing core values such as innovation and fun.