Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have a Preschool program?
Yes, we have an award-winning preschool program for three and four-year-old children. Learn more >
Is there an all-day option for Kindergarten?
Yes, our All-Day Kindergarten program follows regular school hours of 7:45 am – 2:10 pm
What is the maximum class size at St. Joseph?
Currently, our class size is approximately 20-24 students per classroom with two classrooms per grade. If needed, we enforce a maximum class size of 30 students per classroom. Our classes are led by certified teachers with paraprofessional (teacher aide) support as needed.
What is the school’s curriculum?
Religion, Reading, Math, Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, Spanish, Art, Music, Computers, and Physical Education are taught. Learn more >
What is included in Religious Education?
Catholic values are emphasized in all spiritual, educational and extracurricular activities, including:
- Daily classroom prayer and religion as a subject in every grade level
- Weekly mass, with students serving as greeters, lectors, sacristans, ushers and choir members
- Sacramental preparation is incorporated into the school day with a focus on Reconciliation and First Communion in 2nd Grade, and Confirmation in 8th Grade.
- Prayer services, rosary, Stations of the Cross, May Crowning and Reconciliation.
- Service projects for the parish and community.
- A team prayer is said before athletic events.
What extracurricular activities does St. Joseph School offer?
St. Joseph is proud to offer a variety of activities. All-inclusive (no cut) sports are offered to students in grades 5 – 8, including basketball, cross country, football, track & field, and volleyball; every child has an opportunity to play. Other activities include: Altar Servers, Art Club, Band, Scouts, Choir, Cooking Club, Drama Club, LEGO Club/League, Piano, Scholastic Bowl, Spanish Club, Student Council, Violin and more! Learn more >
When does registration begin for new school families?
Typically, registration begins in January and continues until classrooms are full. Learn more >
Is there a waiting list?
There is no wait list at this time, however, parents are encouraged to submit an application as soon as possible, especially for Preschool and Kindergarten classes. Learn more >
What admission policies are followed at St. Joseph School?
The order of priority is as follows:
- Siblings of current St. Joseph students
- Children of St. Joseph parishioners
- Children from other parishes whose parish does not have a Catholic school
- Transfer students from other Catholic schools
- Transfer students from public schools
To be eligible for our PreK and Kindergarten Programs, children must meet specific age requirements by September 1:
- PreK3: child must be three years old
- PreK4 (half and full day): child must be four years old
- Kindergarten: child must be five years old
A county birth certificate and a baptismal certificate are required. Learn more >
Is there a registration fee?
There is a $200 non-refundable registration fee charged to new families at the time of registration.
Are other required fees in addition to tuition and registration fees?
Click here for specific fee information. Fees are subject to change.
Is tuition assistance available?
Please contact our Business Manager, Beth Harbauer at 630-964-0216 or bharbauer@sjpdg.org with questions about tuition, tuition assistance and scholarship programs. Learn more >
What is the school’s daily schedule?
For K – 8:
- The first bell is at 7:45 am
- Students are in their seats for prayers at 7:50 am
- Dismissal is at 2:10 pm
Preschool:
- Half Day PreK3:
- Tuesday and Thursday, 7:45 – 11:00 am
- Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 7:45 – 11:00 am
- Half Day PreK4:
- Monday through Friday, 7:45 – 11:00 am
- Full Day PreK4 Plus:
- Monday through Friday from 7:45 am-2:10 pm
Before School Care (7:00 am – 7:45 am)
All half and full-day students in Preschool to Grade 8 may participate.
After School Care (2:15 pm – 5:30 pm)
Full day students in Preschool to Grade 8 may participate.
Can I volunteer at the school?
Yes! We regularly welcome parent volunteers for a variety of events and activities throughout the year. The talents and time that our parents provide are a daily blessing to our faculty, staff and students. Before volunteering, parents are required to attend a “Protecting God’s Children” session and to complete a background check. For more information, please visit www.stjosephdg.org/pgc
What are your parish boundaries?
There are no boundaries for the parish. All are welcome!
Where do your graduates typically attend high school?
Many St. Joseph graduates continue their studies at Catholic high schools in the area, including Benet Academy, Fenwick, Marmion Academy, Montini Catholic, Nazareth Academy, St. Francis, and St. Rita of Cascia. Our graduates also attend Downers Grove North and Downers Grove South
Do you offer a special lunch program?
St. Joseph School offers an optional hot/special lunch program on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Lunch is pre-ordered from a variety of local restaurants.