In July 2003, the announcement was made that The New River Valley's only Catholic school would close…
There were less than six weeks before the new school year was to begin and parents, teachers, and students were left feeling anxious about the future. The thought of not having their children benefit and thrive from a Catholic education inspired a group of families to open an independent Catholic academy. As a result of this passion for Catholic education, there was a tireless and enthusiastic effort to open St. John Neumann Academy by the first week of September 2003.
News of the school’s race to open spread throughout the state and Catholic schools across Virginia donated desks, chairs, school supplies, textbooks, Crucifixes, and American flags in support of this effort. A vacant public school building became the academy’s home. Many doubted that this new Catholic school would get off the ground. But to those involved, there was never a doubt. They wanted to show their children that when you set a goal, work hard and have faith in God, anything is possible.
As a result of these efforts, 17 elementary school students began the first school year at St. John Neumann Academy on September 3, 2003. All involved were confident that the students would thrive academically, socially and spiritually. They were also confident of the school’s growth and, since the school has opened, it has steadily grown in enrollment each year.
Since opening, both preschool and middle school classes have been added. SJNA now offers Preschool through 8th grade. The academy has worked diligently to establish itself as a Christ-centered, academically challenging, and family-focused community. In a strong partnership with parents, SJNA’s teachers are helping the young “Neumann Knights” build a solid foundation in the areas of academics, character, and faith formation.
