Founded in 1890, St. James began life in the parish's old church on upper Main St. The Sisters of Mercy were enlisted to teach the children of the township's Catholic residents, many of whom were immigrants from countries like Ireland, where Catholicism was the dominant religion.
The "old building" in the school's home on Amboy - across Grove St. from St. James Church - was built in 1921. An addition to house the growing school population was erected in 1954.
Today St. James educates children from preschool age to 8th graders. The school has a wide variety of activities, and a very active parent group.
Built in 1920, Ross Street Elementary School abuts the Board of Education building, which started out life as a school itself in 1879. But Ross St. School has accommodated itself to the 21st century with modern amenities, including classroom air conditioning, wireless Internet, and mobile computer stations. All parts of the diverse education spectrum are well served by the teaching staff with special education classes and a gifted and talented program.
The school has an active parent-teacher organization, and parental involvement is encouraged.
Kimberly B. Hahn is principal.