St. Joseph Catholic School (SJCS) is a vibrant, warm and welcoming Christian school in Bradenton Florida, serving students in prekindergarten (age 3) through grade 8. The school community of talented students, supportive parents, dedicated teachers and staff, experienced administration, and supportive pastors create a caring, family atmosphere. This Catholic school’s goal is to help each child grow to their greatest potential, both spiritually and academically.

School facilities include a music room, art room, library, STREAM room, science lab, spacious outdoor play areas, and a gymnasium. Over the years, the mission has not changed – “Preparing students for the future through faith and academic excellence.”

“Our ministry is to help students recognize, foster, and exhibit their role in carrying out our Catholic values and traditions,” says Deborah Suddarth, Principal, St. Joseph Catholic School. “We do this through infusing our beliefs throughout our curriculum and by celebrating our faith when we come together at school Masses and during faith events.”

The faculty and staff of St. Joseph Catholic School provide an exceptional learning environment that allows students to achieve their full potential. The Elementary and Middle School curriculum is reviewed annually in order to help all students develop critical thinking skills through engaged learning. This includes a variety of learning opportunities, including the use of technology at all grade levels. Early childhood students also benefit from dedicated teacher aides.

To support our students and teachers, innovation and technology are at the forefront here at SJCS. With Promethean boards installed in every classroom, 1 to 1 technology for every student through Chrome Books and iPads, as well as a newly renovated STREAM Lab (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts. and Math), our curriculum is preparing students with skills necessary to communicate and advance in an ever-changing world. 

St. Joseph Catholic School continues to shine academically, and we do so through many collaborations in our community. Our students competed at the local Knights of Columbus Spelling Bee Competition, went on to win at the regional level, and placed at the state competition.The Manatee County DAR Essay Contest had our sixth, seventh, and eighth graders all placing in first place for the county. Plus, a SJCS Alumni won the Highschool Essay contest as well as a College Scholarship. In addition, nationally over half of our students score in the top 10% of testing in one or more subject areas.

All faculty and staff participate in the Church’s ministry to assist parents in their role as the primary teachers of faith to their children. “We are proud of our students and feel blessed to be part of their educational and spiritual journey.” Deborah Suddarth continues, “We work hard to provide a faith-based environment nurturing children with the same values at home. St. Joseph Catholic School is not just a student’s academic world. It becomes their second home – their family.”

Throughout the year, we look for opportunities to help others and to give back to our  community through volunteer projects. We facilitate food drives for the St. Joseph Food Pantry, collections of holiday gifts were made on behalf of the Jesse Tree initiative for Palmetto Migrant Preschool, Boys and Girls Club of Manatee County, and Hope Family Service. Also, beans and rice and packaged diapers were prepared at Still Point, and trips to Truewood Assisted Living Facility to sing continue to spread joy to the residents. In addition, students participate in service organizations such as the National Junior Honor Society, Student Government, Builders Club, K-Kids and Jr. Legion of Mary.  

Parent volunteering is always welcome, and very much appreciated, at St. Joseph Catholic School. Parents help plan numerous events that the entire St. Joseph’s community can enjoy, including a Halloween Bash, Christmas Outdoor Event, Father-Daughter Dance, Mother Son Evening Out, classroom parties and celebrations, and so much more.

Come see all that St. Joseph Catholic School has to offer. St. Joseph Catholic School is located at 2990 26th Street West, in Bradenton. To learn more, or to schedule a private tour, call 941-755-2611 or complete our Contact Us Form.

Bus service is available for those families who live in designated areas, for a fee.