What is the SJA 65th Campaign?
The SJA 65th Campaign is a plan to build an endowment fund, split into two distinct programs: (1) An Annual Fund, and (2) A Capital Improvement Fund.
The SJA Annual Fund
While SJA has been fortunate to enjoy robust enrollment and a strong financial footing, the uncertainty of the prior year and the closures experienced by other local Catholic Schools has further emboldened us to be proactive and prepared for any unforeseen challenges that may present in the future.
- Operations Reserves: Maintain a reserve fund to protect against unforeseen required expenditures and to protect against potential future budget deficits.
- Expansion of academic offerings: Maximize the academy’s competitiveness in the changing educational landscape.
- Tuition assistance: Increase our capacity to provide additional assistance to SJA families in need
SJA Capital Improvement Program
SJA has long been the beneficiary of the lovely Hillsdale campus that was bestowed to us by its founders and subsequent stewards over the past 65 years. The Board’s intention is to program a series of improvements to ensure that this generation hands off a strong physical plant and campus facilities to the Academy’s future students and leaders, while balancing short term improvements that will enhance our current community’s experience on campus.
- Campus Beautification: New playground and other outdoor gathering areas, enhanced hardscaping and landscaping throughout the campus.
- New Science Lab and Ongoing Technology Enhancements: Upgrades to widen and enhance STEM offerings.
- Solar/Geothermal Sustainability: Dual economic and environmental benefit, to greatly reduce utility expense and the carbon footprint of the academy.
- Gym/Auditorium: Modernize the sound system, video projection capabilities, and lighting to benefit the SJA Arts and Sports programs and facilitate school presentations, gatherings, and events.
How Can I Support the Campaign?
Whether you’re an alumni of St. John’s, a parent or grandparent of a current or former student, or a friend of the SJA Community, there are many ways to contribute.
Donate Online
Click here to make your one-time or recurring contribution now.
Donate by Check
Mail your check with memo of 65th Fund to:
St. John’s Academy
460 Hillsdale Ave
Hillsdale, NJ 07642
Get Involved
If you are interested in becoming more involved, please contact SJA School Advisory Board President Michael Barra directly via email.
Upcoming Plans
SJA is also planning a Homecoming event for alumni to celebrate the anniversary, and several cocktail events for select campaign contributors for later this year.
If you are interested in becoming more involved, by contributing towards a specific project, or to learn more about sponsorships, naming rights, major gifts, or any other element of this campaign, please contact us at SJA65th@sja-hillsdale.org.
Meet Our Eagles
Caitlin Brannigan
Declan Henry
Allie Sandt
Words from the SJA Family
A culture of caring and respect for all
"We have 2 children enrolled at SJA and have been a part of an amazing community for over 6 years. The school balances challenging and creative academics with a culture of caring and respect for all. We recommend it to anyone looking for that in their child's education!"
Beyond what I expected
"SJA is beyond what I expected. The staff, the education, the values that they teach not only Catholic values but everyday life lessons how to care for one another and respect each other...the parent community is a tight bond that embraces the school to be the best for all of our children and we are glad God led us to SJA."
Academically challenging with Catholic teachings
"Our daughter goes to school at St John’s and she is thriving there! The teachers and administrators are very nurturing to the children while academically challenging them. Catholic teachings and beliefs are reinforced and practiced. The parental support and sense of community in creating the right environment for our children are other important reasons we spend the extra money to send our daughter to St John’s!"
A difference you feel every time you are in the building
"St. John's Academy is different from other Catholic and public schools in the area. The difference is the culture that exists in the community. It is positive, welcoming and nurturing. It is hard to write in words- yet you feel it at every time you are in the building. Our children are thriving there after leaving a highly regarded public school system. The sacrifice of paying tuition is worth every penny!"
Wonderful education with faith-based values
"I highly recommend SJA to families who want a kind and exciting community for their children. Not only does it provide a wonderful education with faith-based values, the teachers, parents, and administration make every day a pleasure. Sending our son to Kindergarten there was one of the best decisions we ever made as a family!"
High academic standards
"St. John’s Academy is an excellent school. My two sons have gone here for the last seven yrs. I cannot say enough great things about the education my boys have gotten here. The teachers go above and beyond and are truly a gift. The are always available for extra help before or after school. The high academic standards are only part of what makes this school so special. We are blessed to be apart of the SJA community."
Wish we knew about this school earlier
"We love Saint John’s Academy!! My daughter is doing well there and has adjusted after transferring there in 6th grade last year. The education she is receiving there has been exceptional. Wish we knew about this school earlier!! They have welcomed us with open arms and made the transition so easy!"
Well prepared for Don Bosco honors courses
"My 3 children have attended SJA and have done very well. Such a great community with very involved parents. My eldest is now at Don Bosco and was very well prepared, placing in all honors courses. My favorite memories are Tricky Tray (!), Art Smart and prayer partners (8th graders matched with kindergarteners). Come check us out!"
SJA graduate excited to enroll my children
"As a graduate of St John’s Academy I could not be more excited to enroll my children and give them the well-rounded education and experience that I received. SJA is a school like no other with unmatched focus on the whole child - faith, academics, and values. Graduates of SJA are kind, prepared for their future, and grounded. Their experience at SJA will serve them well for their whole lives."
Wonderful experience after move from NYC
"Our family has had a wonderful experience at St. John’s Academy so far - having moved to Bergen County from NYC two years ago. Our two young daughters have quickly made strong friendships and have had incredibly nurturing teachers that they’ve established enduring bonds with. And my wife and I have found a strong parent community as well. We love SJA!"
