School opened September 8th with High Mass and the lovely instruction given by Father Purcell".
With this sentence, Sister Louise Howell, D.C., announced to her superior in Emmitsburg, Maryland, that Catholic Elementary School Education had begun in Johnson City, New York.
Founded by Fr. William Purcell, its roots go back, however, almost to the institution of the parish in 1900 when in order to provide for the religious instruction of the children, the Sisters of St. Joseph had served as catechists, commuting weekly from Binghamton.
Throughout the years, St. James had maintained a strong commitment to faith community.
To that end, the faculty and staff have gathered together for prayer, liturgy, retreat, and sometimes meals.
By forming themselves after Christ, they believe they can better form Christ in their students.
Today St. James Middle School remains strong with an enrollment of 165 students in grades four through eight.
Serving the families and parishes of Broome County, St. James is a collaborative environment focusing on the fundamentals of thinking, reading, writing, music, art, and arithmetic.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked NY School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-6
- Enrollment: 184 students
- Yearly Tuition: $3,500
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
St. James School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for:
Category
Attribute
Affordability
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-6
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
with support from IEP + 504 plans
Year Founded
1939
First Day of School
Fri. Aug 15, 2025
Last Day of School
Mon. May 25, 2026
Student Body
Total Students
184 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
22%
State avg.: 40%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
11 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
17:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
100%
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Khakis and Golf shirts
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Financial Aid is an option
% on Financial Aid
25%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$750
Admissions Director
Visit with the Principal
School Notes
- School Motto: Admission to Catholic Schools of Broome County is the first step on a journey toward personal success.
- School opened September 8th with High Mass and the lovely instruction given by Father Purcell". With this sentence, Sister Louise Howell, D.C., announced to her superior in Emmitsburg, Maryland, that Catholic Elementary School Education had begun in Johnson City, New York. Founded by Fr. William Purcell, its roots go back, however, almost to the institution of the parish in 1900 when in order to provide for the religious instruction of the children, the Sisters of St. Joseph had served as catechists, commuting weekly from Binghamton. Throughout the years, St. James had maintained a strong commitment to faith community. To that end, the faculty and staff have gathered together for prayer, liturgy, retreat, and sometimes meals. By forming themselves after Christ, they believe they can better form Christ in their students. Today St. James Middle School remains strong with an enrollment of 165 students in grades four through eight. Serving the families and parishes of Broome County, St. James is a collaborative environment focusing on the fundamentals of thinking, reading, writing, music, art, and arithmetic.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does St. James School cost?
St. James School's tuition is approximately $3,500 for private students.
What schools are St. James School often compared to?
St. James School is often viewed alongside schools like St. John The Evangelist School by visitors of our site.
What is St. James School's ranking?
St. James School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for: Least expensive tuition and Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for St. James School?
The application deadline for St. James School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 6/12/2017
The teachers are very caring and I was well prepared for middle and high school. The food here is great and I miss it now that I'm at SCCHS
5 9/1/2016
Great school, top notch academics and centered in Christ.
Endorse St. James School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
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