Traditions
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Founded in 1842, Saint James School has many cherished traditions that those in our community look forward to year after year.
Some SJS traditions are part of daily life at SJS while others happen just once a year. These unique events range from fun and spirited (Maroon vs. White and Halloween) to serious and reverent (Lessons and Carols). Our students' fondest memories are often of these beloved traditions, which unite the SJS community with a sense of camaraderie.
- Alumni Weekend
- Commencement Weekend
- Cookie Day
- Family-Style Meals
- Family Weekend
- Founder's Feast
- Halloween
- Headmaster's Collections
- Holloway Wrestling Tournament
- Lessons and Carols
- Maroon vs. White Field Day
- Saint George and the Dragon
- Sixth Form Chapel Talks
- Saint James Invitational Tournament (SJIT)
- Welcome Week
Alumni Weekend
Commencement Weekend
Cookie Day
Family-Style Meals
Family Weekend
Founder's Feast
Halloween
Headmaster's Collections
Holloway Wrestling Tournament
Lessons and Carols
Maroon vs. White Field Day
Saint George and the Dragon
Sixth Form Chapel Talks
Saint James Invitational Tournament (SJIT)
Welcome Week
What's your favorite SJS tradition?
“The fine arts showcases! I enjoy listening to the instrumental and vocal performances as well as looking at the art and photos on display. More importantly, I love watching my peers show off their hidden talents."
“Just before we go on Winter Break, the last chapel service the morning before we leave, as a school we sing the ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ and each day is a different group of people at SJS (i.e., teachers, forms, choir, etc.). The entire school comes together one last time before we head off on the longest of all our breaks.”
“I love Maroon and White competitions throughout the year and on Field Day. I think it is a great way to bring together forms for some friendly competition, especially after a stressful exam week.”
“My favorite SJS tradition is BY FAR Saint George and the Dragon. It is a play put on by the entire second form, with special cameos from teachers and members of the sixth form. The show is always hilarious and brings out good energy amongst the student body.”
Campus Landmarks
Senior Steps
In 1926 a fire destroyed Claggett Hall, leaving only the stone steps, known today as the “Senior Steps.” Now, only sixth form students are permitted on the steps, a privilege that makes them a popular hangout spot for our oldest students. It is also a proud moment when our graduating students stand as a class on the Senior Steps to wave their newly-received diplomas.
If you take a campus tour with an underform student, they may let you enter the admissions office in Claggett from those Senior Steps, but they will use the side or rear entrance!
Poplar Tree
The school's iconic poplar tree stands in the Senior Circle, towering over the campus. One of the oldest trees in Maryland, the stately poplar has stood sentry over the circle for more than a century. It is estimated to be between 300 and 400 years old, which means all students since Saint James School's founding in 1842 have looked up to see the poplar standing tall over them.
The school works with Antietam Tree and Turf to keep the poplar healthy so that it will be standing for generations to come.