Despite weather woes, St. John’s Academy construction continues

Since its inception in 1890, the campus of St. John’s Academy has experienced a series of changes to the school building. In 1927, the school constructed a two-story, 10-classroom building that is still in use today and is located on the most southern part of the school. Within 28 years the school doubled its available space with the expansion of the northern addition to the school in 1955. In 2002, Zebedee center was built, which included the addition of a desperately needed school gymnasium, additional bathrooms, conference rooms, and classrooms for faith formation.

In May of 2019, St. John’s Academy began its greatest building endeavor with the construction of a 27,000 square foot addition. The $5.95-million-dollar campaign was pursued to improve campus safety and modernize the educational capabilities that the aging school was incapable of providing. Included in the addition will be a 7,000 square foot commons, cafeteria and kitchen area, nine new classrooms, a music room, a 2,700 square foot childcare wing, expanded and renovated administration offices, teachers’ lounge, and conference rooms. At the center of the addition will be a school chapel, which has been missing from the school’s campus since the removal of the convent in 1950s.

Progress is slow and steady on the project as we have entered the winter season. The childcare addition is nearly complete and will open its doors to the families of St. John’s Academy once final touch-up issues are completed. The main addition has a scheduled completion date of August of 2020.

This addition will change the way we operate for generations to come. I have really enjoyed being a part of this endeavor. St. John’s Academy has a long and proud tradition of offering a Christ-centered education in Jamestown. This building project ensures that we will continue to be able to offer a wonderful education to our families through the next century. The most rewarding part of this endeavor is witnessing the love and support of our school. It is inspiring to see the value that others have for the Catholic faith and education offered at St. John’s Academy.

We have currently raised roughly 90% of the necessary funds needed to complete the project. When this goal is met, we plan to tackle the renovation of the current building. We ask for continued prayers and support by all those who appreciate the mission of St. John’s Academy.