Grand Connections
Fall/Winter 2024 Edition
A LETTER FROM DR. CASTLEMAN
Welcome to SJEDS
Fall is in the air and it is indeed grand! Our students are enjoying the drop in temperature, eagerly donning their favorite branded fleece jackets, sweaters, and vests as they run outside to play in the crisp air! Fall is my favorite season of the year-a time to gather with loved ones and a time to express thanksgiving for all of God’s abundant blessings.
If you ask any child on this campus what they are thankful for, one of the first things they’ll blurt out is, “My grandparents!” I can relate! As a child, I spent my summers traveling across America with mine and it was magical. Every July we would pile into my grandfather’s Cadillac and hit the dusty road, eager to explore the vast and wondrous region-
s of our nation. In those days, there were no electronic distractions, so I just sat in the back seat of the car, gazing out the window, counting white horses, and peppering my grandparents with questions about “the old days.”
I loved our time on the road, but my favorite memories were overnighting at the various hotels that we stopped at along the way. My grandfather would sit beside the pool for hours, coaching us in our diving technique and watching us play until my grandmother came out to tell us it was bedtime. Then the next morning we’d seek out the closest International House of Pancakes and stuff ourselves with waffles, eggs, hash browned potatoes, and buttered toast with jelly before heading out again. I adored my grandparents for their willingness to spend time with us and for their unconditional love for us. They had high hopes for us and we couldn’t help but want to make them proud.
As educators, we know how important it is for children to have grandparents and other caring adults in their lives. Every child deserves that gift and so our goal is to provide our students with opportunities to enjoy those special relationships. That is why we are so intentional about drawing grandparents to campus and seeking out ways to include grandparents in school events. We want our grandparents to feel deeply connected to this community as equal partners in delivering our mission, which is to inspire a passion for learning, a life of integrity and a heart for Christian service.
This year, as we celebrate our school’s 75th anniversary, we reflect with gratitude on a mission that has remained steadfast over seven decades, shaping every aspect of our work and inspiring us to engage joyfully in God’s calling. We are especially thankful for the unwavering support of our parents and grandparents, whose support and partnership makes all the difference!
Yours in Christ,
Sloane Castleman | Head of School
BUILDING A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE
Our Mission
Inspiring a passion for learning, a life of integrity, and a heart for Christian service.
Tradition of Growth
Throughout our 75 years of history, San Jose Episcopal Day School has continually strived to grow and evolve, embracing both the challenges and opportunities that come with each new generation. From our founding in 1950 to the thriving institution we are today, SJEDS has remained dedicated to enriching the minds and nurturing the spirits of our students. As we honor our rich past, we remain committed to growth in all areas—whether through expanding academic and extracurricular opportunities or enhancing our campus, such as with the recent renovation of our gym. This ongoing journey reflects the strength of our school community and the bright future that lies ahead.
THE SJEDS
Ms. Mullaney Kindergarten Teacher
1 Year at SJEDS Teacher Spotlight
2024-2025
SJEDS is truly a special place. It is filled with love, laughter, and learning. It is a school my family and I cherish that is dear to our hearts. For 17 years consecutively, my parents, Rick and Lynn, brought children to the school and our years had so many wonderful memories, friendships, and sweet times. This school has had a tremendous impact on my life and the person I am today. During my time as a student, I had the opportunity to serve on the student council, perform in productions, and enhance my social, emotional, and spiritual development. I grew as a student, a leader, a friend, and a believer. The mission of SJEDS to “inspire a passion for lifelong learning, a life of integrity, and a heart for Christian service” is lived out daily in and outside of the classroom. The teachers I had made a lasting impression on me and the fond moments and connections I have made are a testament to San Jose’s values. It is truly special to be back as a teacher, in my exact classroom spending my days with so many great people and students. I only hope I can inspire and be a light to my students, sharing a snippet of what it means to be part of this community with them.
DIFFERENCE
Teacher Spotlight
Ms. Bryan Art Teacher
38 Years at SJEDS
2024-2025
Teaching art at San Jose Episcopal has such a meaningful impact on my life. Working with my students helps me see the world in new ways and deepened my appreciation for art”s power to transform. Watching students make their artwork reminds me of the importance of nurturing creativity. The school’s supportive environment allows me to grow as both an educator and artist. Seeing students develop their skills over time is incredibly rewarding, and creating a safe space for them to learn brings joy to my heart. San Jose Episcopal is more than a job; it’s a place where I feel I make a real difference.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
DECEMBER
Dec 10: Early Explorer Christmas Chapel, followed by Jingle Mingle on LS Playground
Dec 11: Christmas Matinee (1st-6th Grade)
Dec 12: Evening Christmas Program (1st-6th Grade)
JANUARY
Jan 14: PreK 3 - Kindergarten Dads & Donuts
Jan 15: 1st-6th grade Dad & Donuts
Jan 17: Grandparents and Special Friends Day
MARCH
Mar 1: Annual Gala
Mar 7: Field Day
APRIL
April 12: Father-Daughter Dance
MAY
May 2: Kids Rule the School Day
May 13: Crossing the Bridge - Kindergarten Event
May 13: Last Early Explorers Chapel of the Year
May 14: Acolyte Recognition
May 21: Red Tie & Awards Ceremony
May 22: Last Day of School
May 23: Commencement
KEY DATES CALENDAR:
THE FUND FOR SAN JOSE
Making An Impact
The Fund for San Jose plays a critical role in making our school more than just a place of learning. It supports every aspect of our students’ experiences, from advanced curriculum development to state-of-the-art facilities, enriching extracurricular programs, and financial assistance for deserving families. It ensures that every child at SJEDS can dream, grow, and thrive in an environment that values both intellectual and spiritual growth.
This year’s goal is 100% participation—because our students deserve nothing less. Each donation to the Fund for San Jose helps us sustain the vibrant community that has been our hallmark for seven decades. In honor of this special anniversary, here are a few ways you can help us meet that goal:
Donate to the Fund for San Jose
Every gift, no matter the size, helps us sustain the vibrant community that has been our hallmark for seven decades.
Encourage Peer-to-Peer Giving
As a member of our community, your voice matters. By encouraging friends, family, and fellow alumni to participate, you extend our reach, helping us build a stronger, more connected community.
Increase Your Impact
Consider stretching your gift this year or joining a giving circle to maximize the influence of your contribution. Matching gifts through your employer can further amplify your generosity.
GIVE NOW:
www.sjeds.org
