St. Joseph High School in Metuchen prides itself on the caliber of young men it graduates into the world. They provide strong building blocks in academics, leadership, character formation, service and brotherhood to be a man of the future, ready to make a difference in the world. Perhaps most importantly, they give young men empowerment; empowerment to make decisions for themselves that reflect the type of man they want to be. The type of man they are proud to be.
Since its formal opening in 1961, the St. Joe’s experience has been rooted in the Catholic tradition of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. As soon as you step onto the 71-acre campus you see signs of this rich tradition. Most notably is the Seal of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart that is melded into the floor of the entryway foyer. It is not protected by a gate or guard, but nobody walks over the seal. Students, teachers, faculty - everyone walks around it. Brotherhood is respected, protected and in the heart of every student. It is about the bonds of a shared experience. Having one another's backs. Rooting for each other. Friendship. Graduates of St. Joe’s become brothers for life.
Admissions Director Miguel Cabrita is also an Alumni having graduated in 1991. He recalls his own experience and how it is different for students today. When he attended St. Joe’s it was his parents’ decision as they looked to find a school that would offer him opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. He was hesitant at first but as an only child, he felt the brotherhood immediately. He recalls finding friends he would not have otherwise met. Boys from different backgrounds soon became his circle. The teachers were attentive to him and guided him towards new experiences, like volleyball, that remain a part of his life today (he is also the Coach of the three-time state championship Boys Volleyball team). Today, as Admissions Director, he says the students are leading the charge! They hear and learn about St. Joe’s, they attend “Freshman for the Day” and they advocate for themselves to attend. He is often the one giving potential students tours. “I love to see a boy’s eyes light up when they get to THEIR space. Whether it be the Science Lab, the Robotics studio or the E-Sports Lounge, their face changes when they see the thing that affirms their belonging here”. And that is the crux. Boys with interests across a wide variety of interests are also brothers. He is clearly proud of the character building he sees in the young men attending his alma mater. Everyone here is a Falcon. Whether you bowl, play chess, act in the drama club, play football or debate at Model UN - the boys are rooting for each other. The environment allows for the boys to put guards down and be themselves - and accepting of each other’s differences. He gets a little choked up when he says “kids can be themselves here - as brothers they protect each other. They all bleed green, they are all Falcons.”
At St. Joe's there is an orderly and disciplined environment that is respectful, consistent and fair, and based on a relationship of mutual trust and cooperation. Each ”Partner in Mission" gives their personal attention to developing open and genuine relationships with students and parents through opportunities outside of class time and in less formal settings. Whether it be the Robust Formation and Service Program, Community Engagement, Service Trips, they are preparing young men to navigate life’s challenges through faith, character and leadership
Academics programming offers personalized learning. With a student / teacher ratio of 15:1 St. Joe's can provide a hands-on approach to each student. With a formal concentrations program, students can hone in on an area of interest, thereby preparing them for college and careers.
St. Joe’s has built a solid community. It becomes an entire family experience; siblings come; multiple generations here; parental support through fundraising, events, carpooling, etc. By the Numbers: Scholarships exceed 4 year tuition, SJHS gives scholarships and financial need, Average accepted scholarship ($101K); 81% accepted scholarship…Return on investment - significantly higher, ROI.
Counselors assist students with the adjustment to high school, decision-making strategies, time management, and improving study habits. They provide a testing program that indicates students’ strengths and weaknesses, assess interest to guide students toward possible career opportunities, and provide practice/preparation for college standardized testing.
All Guidance counselors and support staff are very cognizant of the social, emotional, and mental health support that high school students may need. Counselors are readily available to meet individually with students to help in these areas, and if necessary, recommend and provide referral information for outside professional support services.