The parochial school is celebrating a long legacy in Biddeford, and ‘unplugged’ academic excellence
[Contributed Story]
BIDDEFORD — Saint James School, a cornerstone of the Biddeford community for over a century, officially announced the opening of enrollment for the next school year. Positioning itself as a leader in the regional educational landscape, the school is inviting new families to experience a unique “Classical Catholic” model that prioritizes deep human connection and academic rigor over digital distractions.
As Saint James enters its 34th year as a consolidated school, it stands on a foundation of Catholic education in Biddeford that began in 1887 with St. Joseph’s. This nearly 140-year legacy provides the backdrop for a forward-thinking mission: fostering spiritual growth, academic excellence, and social maturity in a modern world.
“It is a profound honor to continue serving this parish and community,” said Dr. Timothy Kane, principal of Saint James School. “While we honor our deep roots, we are actively looking toward the future. Our transition toward a true Classical Catholic curriculum is designed to free both teachers and students for the joyful pursuit of faith, wisdom, and virtue.”
The ‘Unplugged’ Advantage
In an era dominated by screen time, Saint James School is distinguishing itself through a conscious effort to “unplug” the classroom. This initiative is a core component of the school’s brand identity, offering a learning environment that favors traditional, proven methods, including
Physical Books over Tablets | Enhancing reading comprehension and deep focus.
Handwritten Mastery | Improving memory function and fine motor skills.
Human-Centered Engagement | Prioritizing face-to-face discourse and meaningful social development.
“By reducing daily technology use in favor of traditional methods, we are seeing immediate benefits in how our students engage with their subjects,” Kane continued. “While we offer specialized technology classes to ensure our students are prepared for the modern world, our daily classroom focus remains on authentic, human-centered learning.”
Families looking for an educational environment that balances historical tradition with a vibrant, virtue-based community are encouraged to visit the campus and meet the faculty.
_______________
ABOUT ST. JAMES SCHOOL | Saint James School is a Catholic parochial school located in Biddeford, Maine. Dedicated to the “joyful pursuit of faith, wisdom, and virtue,” the school serves as the premier destination for families seeking a Classical education rooted in the 140-year history of the Biddeford Catholic community. | LEARN MORE
Never miss an update | Subscribe for free today
THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE | Biddeford’s Trusted, Professional News Source
Biddeford Gazette | Editorial Standards & Policies
© 2026 Biddeford Gazette, Inc. All Rights Reserved
BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 