SaintJoseph

St. Joseph Catholic School has been in existence since 1859.

The first sisters to teach at St. Joseph’s were the Sisters of the Most Precious Blood, who came
in 1896. Some years later they were replaced by the Sisters of St. Joseph. Since 1930, the
school has been under the administration of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Perpetual Adoration.

The first building was in use until 1863, then another building was erected on the present site.
This building, completed in 1911, consisted of four classrooms on the second floor and an
assembly hall on the lower level. Due to increased enrollment, ground was broken for another
building in 1953. This structure, completed in 1954 had six classrooms on the main floor, two on
the lower level, a cafeteria, and a gym.

We added a full day Kindergarten in 1983, a preschool in 1991, seventh grade in 1998 and
eighth grade in 1999. Because of increasing technological advancements, one classroom and a
computer lab were added. Our present facility houses 10 classrooms, one state-of-the-art
computer lab, a library, gym and full-service cafeteria.

Three rooms of the large cafeteria are used for speech, remedial reading and after school care.

Our staff consists of a full time principal, a sister librarian, ten full time lay teachers, and a full
time aide. Our part time staff includes one computer and physical education teacher, one
guidance counselor, two preschool teachers, many, many parent volunteers, and two
preschool aides.

We continue to grow to continue so that we may foster in our children, unequaled faith-based
education, in our area.

MISSION STATEMENT

St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School, LaPorte, Indiana, supports parents in affording their
children a quality Catholic education through integration of faith, knowledge, and self-discipline.

The faculty and staff accomplish this mission by providing:
- Catholic religious formation through religion classes, prayer experiences, service projects, and
a supportive environment;
- Quality academic education through a solid core curriculum;
- A Christ-like atmosphere of care and respect which fosters self-esteem, leadership and
personal responsibility.