Our Programs

At St. John Vianney Catholic School, we’re committed to educating compassionate, knowledgeable students who are prepared to follow the path of Jesus Christ.

Everything we offer—from academics and enrichment to faith formation and leadership—is designed to support the whole child. Our programs help students grow in mind, heart, and spirit through meaningful learning, a strong sense of community, and a foundation rooted in faith.

Faith Formation & Leadership

  • Catholic Schools Week: We celebrate Catholic education each year with themed days, service activities, and our Comet Showcase—a school-wide talent show where students shine.
  • Living Our Faith: Faith is part of everyday life at SJV—through prayer, discussion, and service.
  • Weekly Mass: Students help lead Mass by reading, greeting, altar serving, and singing.
  • Classroom Ministry: Father John regularly visits classrooms to teach and connect with students.
  • Sacramental Preparation: Students prepare for Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation during the school day, with additional support coordinated by Mr. Jim Hurst, our Youth Faith Formation Coordinator.
  • Mass Buddies & Faith Friends: Older and younger students are paired together for Mass and shared faith activities, building relationships across grades.
  • Middle School Houses (Grades 6–8): Students in grades 6–8 are part of one of four student-named Houses: Arc, Dominic, JP II, and Thomas More. Houses foster leadership, teamwork, and community through service, competitions, and events.
  • Whole-School Faith Events: Students help lead cherished Catholic traditions such as Stations of the Cross, the Living Rosary, and our Advent Light Service.

Academics & Enrichment

  • STEAM & SmartLab: Students engage in hands-on, project-based learning in our STEAM-focused SmartLab, where creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration come together.
  • Maker’s Space: Our Maker’s Space encourages students to explore, build, and problem-solve through design challenges and group projects.
  • Specials: Students participate in weekly classes including Art (K–8), STEAM (K–8), Music (K–4), Physical Education (K–8), and Technology (K–5).
  • Spanish (Grades 5–8): Spanish is taught several times per week as a graded course, building language skills and cultural understanding.
  • Band: Grades 5–6: Band is offered during the school day.
    • Grades 7–8: Band meets before school at Catholic Central High School. A return bus brings students to SJV; families arrange morning transportation.
  • Choir (Optional): Students in grades K–8 may join Wednesday choir with Mr. Simon, helping lead music during our weekly school Mass.
  • Field Trips: Class trips to places like John Ball Zoo, Blandford Nature Center, and Calvin University connect classroom learning to real-world experiences.

Athletics & Activities

  • GRACEAC Sports (Grades 3–8): Students can participate in after-school sports through the Grand Rapids Area Catholic Elementary Athletic Council.
  • Middle School Robotics: Students in grades 6–8 are eligible to participate in the Catholic Central High School robotics program, offering additional opportunities for STEM exploration and competition.

Before & After Care

  • Before Care:
    • Grades K-8 students.
    • 7:00–8:10 AM.
    • $5/day per child, billed monthly
    • Pre-registration and a completed Child Care Information Card are required.
    • See Mrs. Olivia Griffin for details.
  • After Care:
    • Grades K–4: After Care from 3:30–5:30 PM
    • Grades 5–8: Supervised Study Hall from 3:30–5:30 PM
    • $15/day with pre-registration required
    • Families are asked to submit a weekly schedule to help us plan staffing and supervision.
    • Contact Ms. Durkee for details.
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