Saint James Catholic School 

Saint James Church began as a mission in the late nineteenth century. In a Gadsden Times article dated June 9, 1876, Will I. Martin wrote, “Mass was said in the home of James Lellande by Father Kerwin, for twenty Catholics of the community.” The church was built in 1885 and was given its first resident pastor on June 1, 1912.

Each child at St. James is seen as having a unique potential that requires continuous development while recognizing their unique learning style. Guided by our mission, the faculty and staff are committed to providing each student every opportunity to develop his or her own knowledge, skills, understanding, and talents.

Our aim is to prepare our students to become mature, responsible adults who will live their Christian beliefs within our society. They are taught that an ordinary person can be extraordinary and make a difference in the world, much like our Catholic saints.

We keep all parish and student families in our daily prayers, so that all may find their true purpose in the kingdom of God on earth.

Saint James Catholic School received full accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 2006. Mrs. Suzanne Miller was principal at the time and deserves the credit for leading the faculty and staff during our initial accreditation visit.

The Diocese of Birmingham has attained Diocesan wide accreditation for its schools. This will mean in the future that the Diocese will be responsible for our site visits and accreditation process. This process will help the Diocese to be tied more closely and lead more effectively each of its schools.