Saint James the Apostle School Marches in Union County Saint Patrick’s Day Parade

SPRINGFIELD – For the first time, Saint James the Apostle School marched in the annual Union County Saint Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 11. This year’s parade was exceptionally special as it was dedicated to Catholic schools in Union County. Catholic Schools have played an integral part in the education, morality and civic responsibility instilled in the children of Irish immigrants and many other ethnic communities for some 150+ years, thereby enabling immigrants to rise from poverty and become productive American citizens.

Marching in the parade was a strong representation of students, faculty, alumni and parents of the 23 Catholic elementary and high schools located in Union County. Saint James the Apostle School together with eleven Catholic elementary combined efforts to organize a float decorated with school banners. Dr. Margaret Dames, Ed.D., Secretary for Catholic Education and Superintendent of Schools of the Archdiocese of Newark led the group of schools. Sr. Patricia Butler, S.C., Assistant Superintendent of Schools, together with elementary school principals rode in the float, followed by the contingent of Catholic schools, each holding their school’s banner.

Saint James the Apostle School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, offering a diverse range of academic programs from PreK-3 through Grade 8, state of the art technology, enrichment classes, and a host of academic and athletic clubs. The school provides full and half-day Pre-K and full day Kindergarten along with Before and After Care Programs.

Saint James the Apostle School has been serving the parishioners of Saint James the Apostle Church in Springfield and surrounding communities since 1953. Contact us at (973) 376-5194 or sjschool@ssjpringfield.org and visit our website at www.sjspringfield.org.