Carmel Mission's

Junipero Serra School

About JSS



Junipero Serra School is a Roman Catholic elementary school that supports and educates Catholic youth from the Monterey Peninsula community. Families of other faiths are welcome. JSS is affiliated with the Diocese of Monterey and the Department of Catholic Schools. The school is located in Carmel, CA on the grounds of the historic Carmel Mission Basilica. The school offers classes from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8.

Fully credentialed teachers staff the school. The average class size is under 25 students with one class per grade level. Extended Care is available before school and after school from 12p.m. – 6p.m. The school schedule is 8a.m. – 3p.m.

Junipero Serra School is accredited by the Western Catholic Educational Association (WCEA). WCEA accredits Catholic elementary and secondary schools in nine western states (26 (arch) dioceses) and the US Territory of Guam. WCEA co-accredits and is in partnership with WASC, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Mission Statement

“Always look forward, never look back.”
~ Fr. Junipero Serra

In keeping with those words of our Mission’s founder, Father Junipero Serra, Junipero Serra School lays the foundation for a life-long love of learning and of oneself, thereby instilling in our students the confidence to face challenges and succeed in an ever-changing world.

Rooted in the teachings of the gospel, it is with respect, love and kindness that the teachers and staff of Junipero Serra School strive to discover, develop and celebrate the talents of each and every student. Beginning in pre-Kindergarten and through eighth grade, Junipero Serra School inspires academic excellence and positive character development in a safe and nurturing environment where each student and family are valued members of our academic community of faith.

 

Schoolwide Learning Expectations

We envision graduates of Junipero Serra School as:

  • Active members in the Christian Faith Community who
    • Practice Jesus' teaching compassion, tolerance and justice
    • Participate reverently in liturgical celebrations and prayer
    • Demonstrate service to church, family and community
    • Grow in knowledge of scripture and church teaching
    • Practice reverence for the sacredness of God's creation
  • Global citizens who
    • Demonstrate appreciation and respect for cultural diversity
    • Participate in conversation
    • Respond with sensitivity to world events
  • Motivated life-long learners who
    • Use organizational and study skills effectively.
    • Establish and accomplish productive goals.
    • Function as independent, cooperative, and inquisitive learners.
    • Listen actively, speak and write clearly.
    • Use available resources and tools effectively.
  • Cooperative and creative problem solvers who
    • Evaluate life situations and respond with Christian values.
    • Work independently and collaboratively to create solutions.
    • Resolve conflicts peacefully.
  • Well-rounded individuals who
    • Seek balance in their emotional, social, physical, and spiritual lives.
    • Grow in confidence and self-respect through cooperation,
      sportsmanship, and honesty.
    • Practice self-control.
    • Take responsibility for actions.

JSS provides a safe and loving environment for my child. The school teachers children to respect themselves and others.
            --JSS Parent

JSS provides a christian enviornment for students to learn and excel, academically, physically, and spiritually.
            --JSS Parent