Saint Joseph Academy is monitoring the COVID-19 situation and assessing information and directives from various sources, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cameron County Department of Public Health, the Diocese of Brownsville and the Office of Catholic Schools, and other public officials and agencies.  Our top priority is to ensure the health and safety of our students, parents, employees and other campus visitors.

Check back often for the most up-to-date announcements regarding current campus operations and online instruction.

Distance Learning will continue until September 28. 

Face-to-Face Instruction Begins Monday, September 28

OPTION A: Face-to-Face Instruction

  • Students follow a regular 7 period/day schedule Monday-Thursday
  • Utilize Google Classroom and other online platforms 
  • Teachers are available after school for additional support and on FLEX Fridays

OPTION B: Distance Learning

  • Synchronous (live instruction) for core content areas- English, Math, Science, and Soc. Studies
  • Asynchronous (self-paced instruction) for remaining classes; students work independently during their normal scheduled class time
  • Utilize Google Classroom and other online platforms 

Teachers are available after school for additional support and on FLEX Fridays

DropOff Process/Locations and Student Parking

The map shows the morning arrival process and drop-off spots. All students will be checked for a temperature and that they have their masks and face-shields. Both must be worn upon exiting their vehicles. 

Students must park in one of the designated student parking areas (see map). Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis and a parking permit is required to park on campus. Overflow parking is available behind Canales Field. Parking permits may be purchased in the finance office. There are no reserved spots. Parking permits are $50 and there are only 75 available. To purchase a parking permit please email lmontoya@sja.us.

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Return-to-School Frequently Asked Questions
Return-to-School Frequently Asked Questions

Flex Friday has been really helpful. What happens now when Face-to-Face instruction begins?

Flex Fridays will continue until SJA is 100% in-person learning. Students will not be on campus on Fridays.

 

Can I just wear a mask when I'm on campus?

No. All students must wear a face mask AND an SJA issued shield. If you don't have a face mask you will be given a 1-use disposable face mask. If you don't have a shield, you will be given one and your family will be billed $5 per shield.

These must be worn upon exiting your car. These have to remain on during class and in-between classes, after school until you get back in your car. Lunch is the only time you can take these off.

 

How will lunch work now?

You'll have to pre-order your lunch here OR bring your own lunch. Parents are not allowed to bring lunch to a student if it's forgotten. Also, all water fountains will be turned off as a safety precaution. Please remember to bring your own water bottle.

 

I'm not a student but I have some business to conduct on campus. Do I need an appointment?

Normally, we welcome visitors as long as they check-in with the office first but we are trying to limit the number of people we have on campus so for now you will have to make an appointment. Absolutely no drop-ins.

 

I like to be the first in line to pick up my child. How early will I be allowed on campus for dismissal?

We completely understand but no cars will be allowed on campus for dismissal until 3:25 pm. If you arrive before 3:25 pm, you will wait outside the gates on Ringgold St. Once you're on campus we ask that you follow the same route as in the morning drop-off.

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2020-2021 Academic Plan Overview
2020-2021 Academic Plan Overview

Distance Learning ALL STUDENTS
Begins August 31 and will continue until September 28.

All students will kick off the school year engaged in SJA’s Distance Learning Program for a week-long introduction to the distance learning platform (Google Classrooms), learn about their classes, meet teachers, and discuss the upcoming year. A detailed schedule of this week will be provided in August.
 

Families Will Then Choose: In-Person Instruction or Distance Learning

Families can choose either in-person instruction or distance learning for their student. This choice is for the entire 9-week marking period. Should it be necessary, this process will begin again for the 2nd 9-week marking period and families will choose again. Students cannot switch between options once the term begins*. Students participating in the distance learning program are not permitted to participate in school-sponsored sports, activities, or clubs during that time period. 

*Any student that tests positive for COVID19 or needs to quarantine will automatically transition into SJA’s Distance Learning Program until cleared to return to the in-person option*

In-Person Instruction  

  • Instruction delivered in classrooms
  • Daily health screenings
  • Face-shields required
  • Reduced class size
  • Extra spacing between desks
  • Social distancing in common areas

Distance Learning

  • Asynchronous (not real time)
  • Highly engaging lessons & assignments via Google Classroom
  • Virtual office hours with teachers
  • Virtual meetings with counselors

 

Should a situation arise where we need to transition to the
Distance Learning Program for ALL STUDENTS

  • Synchronous (real time)
  • 1st – 4th period classes on Monday/Wednesday
  • 5th – 7th period classes on Tuesday/Thursday
  • Extra-help and virtual office hours with teacher on Friday
  • Highly engaging lessons & assignments via Google Classroom

**More information on how the DEEP Program will be conducted will be provided from SJA & UTRGV in August**

Please know that these are ever-changing times and it may be necessary to alter the plans outlined above based on the school's needs and to keep our community safe and healthy. SJA will communicate any updates/changes with families immediately through our various platforms including mail, social media, website, and text messages.

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Health & Safety Expectations for SJA Students, Families, & Staff

All members of the SJA community have a shared responsibility to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In an effort to facilitate a safe return to campus we ask that you comply with the following health and safety procedures:

  • Comply with federal, state, and local orders. 
  • Stay home if you're sick.
  • Stay home if you think you've been exposed.
  • Wear a face covering. 
  • Practice physical distancing.
  • Practice excellent hygiene by washing or sanitizing your hands as often as possible.
  • Limit social interactions.
  • Avoid unnecessary travel.

Contacts

Michael Motyl - President

Melissa Valadez - Principal

Dr. Dana Yates - Vice-Principal

Additional Resources

Letter from Bishop Flores
Reopening our Catholic Schools
Return to School Guidelines
SJA COVID-19 FAQs

Student Resources

AP Classes & Review
Zoom FAQs
Archived Video Messages