Traditions
The Feast of Pope St. John Paul II
The patronal feast day of the school - celebrated first with Holy Mass and followed by a Eucharistic procession ending in Benediction from the threshold of Holy Ghost Church. Polish food, student recitations, and field games add to the atmosphere of celebration. The day concludes with the much-anticipated Student-Teacher soccer match in honor of the great saint, who had a deep fondness for the Beautiful Game.
Advent Lessons and Carols
Following a centuries-old Christian tradition, in the days before Christmas the community gathers to enjoy a student-led choral performance of Lessons and Carols. Parents, teachers, and friends of the school enter into the spirit of joyful awaiting surrounding Advent and Christmas through selections from scripture accompanied by Christmas music performances by the student body - from our Upper School Choir down to our Kindergarten violin ensemble.
House system
St. John Paul II Academy’s House system is drawn from the 1,000 year-old tradition of Christian education, still seen today in Universities such as Oxford and Cambridge.
The Houses provide opportunities for camaraderie and connection among students and teachers within the school. Each house at JPII has its own colors, motto, coat of arms, and traditions.
Students engage in friendly physical and academic competitions throughout the school year for house points. At the end of the year, the House with the most points is awarded the Gerard Manley Hopkins Cup, which is displayed in the front office throughout the next year.
The Feast of St. Joseph
On March 19th, families and friends of the school gather to celebrate the Feast of the Patron of the Universal Church. Celebrations begin with Mass, which is immediately followed by a Eucharistic procession that winds through the surrounding neighborhood and ends at the altar of St. Joseph. The day concludes with student recitations and performances.
Competition of the Bard
One of the biggest opportunities for students to showcase their rhetorical skill. Students compete individually or in groups for their grade category, presenting selected poetic works before a panel of judges and an audience. The Competition of the Bard is both competitive and educational, offering students an opportunity to hone their performance skills, develop confidence in public speaking, and deepen their appreciation for classical poetry.
Spring Arts Showcase
An event that highlights our students’ many artistic talents, refined throughout the academic year. The showcase features our Kindergarten through 2nd grade violin ensemble, various choral and poetic performances, as well as a gallery of beautiful student artwork. Students also receive recognition for various achievements earned throughout the year, such as awards won in the Audubon Student Art Contest, the Bard Competition, and National Latin Exam.