SAINT JAMES SCHOOL
SaintJames School is the oldest Episcopal boarding school founded on the English model in the United States. Founded by Bishop William Whittingham in 1842, the School originally included a preparatory school and college. In the years following the Civil War, the college was eliminated and Saint James evolved toward its present shape. Located in a rural setting, the Georgian-style campus of Saint James sits on 100 acres of farmland containing a natural spring, fields, and streams. The campus lies 5 miles southwest of Hagerstown and is approximately 65 miles from both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. The region offers many cultural and historic points of interest including the C&O Canal, Harpers Ferry, and Antietam and Gettysburg Battlefields. Faculty and students enjoy the cultural resources of the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area on regular field trips.
Throughout its history, Saint James has remained committed to the precepts of sound mind and body, emphasizing the spiritual, intellectual, physical, and moral development of each student through challenging academics, daily athletics, extensive activities, and community service. At the start of each academic day, the entire School gathers for Chapel, providing an opportunity for thought and reflection for faculty and students of all faith traditions. Simultaneously challenged and supported, Saint James students study a traditional core curriculum, which provides a solid foundation for strong academic achievement at the collegiate level.
A student's character is of fundamental importance at Saint James School, and because of this, the School strives to foster a strong sense of personal and group responsibility and a high standard of honor in each student. The Honor Code (a pledge to not lie, cheat, or steal) expects each student to respect other people and their property. Furthermore, the use of alcohol and illegal drugs is strictly prohibited, as is the use of tobacco in any form. The Honor Council and the Disciplinary Committee, comprised largely of students, review instances of dishonor and misconduct and recommend appropriate dispositions to the Headmaster.
The Prefect Council, made up of ten seniors elected by the students and the faculty, upholds the traditions of Saint James and assists faculty members and the Headmaster in the day-to-day operations of the School. Of this group, one member is elected Senior Prefect, and he or she leads the Prefects in their work.
Saint James is governed by a self-perpetuating Board of Trustees. The School's operating budget is $6.2 million per year. The endowment is approximately $11.1 million. An active Annual Giving program is supported by better than 50 percent of the alumni.
Saint James School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and the Maryland State Department of Education. It is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, Association of Independent Maryland Schools, Cum Laude Society, Council for Advancement and Support of Education, and National Association of Episcopal Schools.