St. Joseph Elementary School is the oldest, continually operational Catholic elementary school in the City of Buffalo.
St. Joseph School opened its doors in 1849 as a German school.
Our mission is to provide the highest quality Catholic education possible, in an atmosphere of worship, warmth, and wisdom; and to instill the values of living Christ's word, sharing his word, and loving all without exception.
We believe education is the means through which children are guided in their life-long quest of becoming responsible members of our world community.
Such a pursuit involves, on our part, the earnest endeavor to discover and cultivate the individual talents of each child and the sincere effort to develop a healthy self esteem which is the basis of ultimate respect for humanity and the world.
We believe we can attain this end most effectively by communicating the message of Jesus, not only by word, but also by example, thus creating a genuine faith community in which both students and staff can grow in wisdom and grace.
Since love of neighbor is the touchstone of a truly Christian life, we will encourage students to engage in service outside the school community, thus carrying the gospel message to others more effectively.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: Kindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 151 students
- Yearly Tuition: $150
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-8
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
151 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
83%
State avg.: 40%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
25 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Application URL
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does St. Joseph University School cost?
St. Joseph University School's tuition is approximately $150 for private students.
When is the application deadline for St. Joseph University School?
The application deadline for St. Joseph University School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
Endorse St. Joseph University School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

Podcasts That Will Change the Way You Think About Education
This article highlights a curated selection of podcasts that offer thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and innovative ideas on various aspects of education. From exploring new teaching methods and technologies to discussing policy changes and social issues, these podcasts provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone interested in education. Each podcast is briefly described, highlighting its unique focus and tone.

For-profit vs. Not-for-profit Schools
This comprehensive guide explores the differences between for-profit and not-for-profit private schools, discussing their organizational structures, advantages, and key considerations for parents. It emphasizes that a school's success is determined by its educational quality and management rather than its profit status.

2023-24 Best SSAT Prep Courses Reviewed
This article reviews the top SSAT prep courses, including Test Innovators, Enrollment Management Association (EMA), Princeton Review, Ivy Global, and Kaplan. Each course is evaluated based on its price, in-person and online services, officially licensed materials, instant normative scoring, and free trial options. We'll dive into the features and benefits of each course, helping you understand which one best fits your student's needs and learning style.