Nationally & Locally Recognized For Excellence

Saint James School (Pre-K – Grade 8) is a proud recipient of the Blue Ribbon Award for Academic Excellence.   This award recognizes high-performing schools, where students rank at the top of their peer group nationwide in both reading and math on standardized tests.  On the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills, Saint James students consistently score several years above grade level, and the yearly gains made by each group of students exceed expected progress.

Kindergarten – 8th Grade Program

Saint James School has been a leading choice for educating children in Manchester and surrounding towns since it first opened its doors in 1922.  Many changes have happened at the school since then, but the basic principles that have turned generations of Saint James graduates into compassionate, disciplined, critical thinkers have not.

Pre-Kindergarten Program

Saint James School offers a comprehensive Pre-K program in a nurturing Christian environment. As part of the Saint James community, children have an enriching experience that includes various opportunities to be part of what they fondly refer to as “the big school.” It’s a unique environment that cannot be found elsewhere.

Latest News

  • Grade 8 Hosts International Day Showcase!April 24, 2024 - 2:29 am

    Congratulations to the Saint James School 8th Grade class on an outstanding job hosting International Day today! In addition to turning in a written report and giving an oral presentation to their classmates, parents, teachers, and younger peers, the students also created/displayed maps, a travel brochure, a travel website, and prepared local cuisine from their assigned country. Great job Sabers!!!

  • Archbishop Coyne Visits ManchesterApril 23, 2024 - 3:27 am

    Yesterday, Saint James School (and our sister school Saint Bridget) were thrilled to celebrate Mass with Coadjutor Archbishop Christopher J. Coyne, who will succeed Archbishop Blair upon his retirement later this year.  With K-8 students from both of our Manchester Catholic elementary and middle schools in attendance, we filled every pew in St. James Church!  It was quite moving to hear so many youthful voices singing and praying together! After Mass, Archbishop Coyne visited the campuses of both Saint James School…

  • Hats Off To Reading Winners!April 17, 2024 - 9:15 am

    Congratulations to the winners of our recent Hats Off To Reading contest!  As you may recall, this contest was sponsored by our school librarian, Mrs. Tierney, in honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday and Read Across America.  As a whole our K-8th grade students read a total of 2,812 books during…