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Frequently Asked Questions about SJP/STA

 

» Is it one school or two schools?

St. John Primary/St. Theresa Middle is one school with two campuses.  SJP is located on Hwy. 73 in Prairieville and STA is located on Burnside Ave. in Gonzales.

» What does STA stand for?

STA stands for St. Theresa of Avila.  When the school first opened on one campus (over 60 years ago), it was St. Theresa of Avila Catholic School.  After moving some grades to another campus to handle enrollment growth, names changed and the St. Theresa of Avila campus became St. Theresa Middle.

» How many students are enrolled at SJP/STA?

St. John Primary typically has about 380-400 Pre-Kindergarten through 3rd Grade students.  St. Theresa Middle typically enrolls about 350-370 students in 4th through 8th grades. 

» How old is the school?

Our history dates back to 1957 when Father Arthur Lieux chose eight men to plan a drive for a new school. Thanks to their foresight and dedication, St. Theresa of Avila School became a reality on September 8th, 1959 when 276 children attended their first day of school in 1st through 4th grades.  We now have two campuses educating students from Pre-Kindergarten to 8th grade.

» When should parents begin the application process?

The admission application opens in December of each school year. For more details, visit the Application Process page.

» When will parents know if their child is accepted?

The acceptance process begins in January and letters are typically mailed in early February of each school year. Registration fees are due upon acceptance and are non-refundable.

» What is the average class size at St. John Primary?

The average class size is approximately 23 students per class.

» What is the average class size at St. Theresa Middle?

The average class size is approximately 26 students per class.

» Does the school provide bus transportation?

 Ascension Parish Public School System provides SJP/STA with six buses at no charge. The buses are routed in an effort to serve as many students as possible; however, it is not possible to serve everyone. There are bus routes for morning arrival and afternoon departure. Bus routes are determined by the transportation supervisor. Shuttle buses run mornings between both campuses allowing drop-off on either campus. Shuttles run in the afternoon from St. John Primary to St. Theresa Middle After Care.

» Does the school offer Extended Care?

Yes, before care is offered on both campuses. After care for Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade students is offered only on the St. Theresa Middle campus.  Class sizes are limited and are filled on a first come, first served basis.  Students have an opportunity to have a snack, work on homework, and play with other students. See our Extended Care page for more details.