The St. John’s Experience As newer members of the St. John’s community, with twins Rocco and Grace in Kindergarten (plus 2-1/2-year-old Gunner waiting in the wings to be an Eagle), Candace and Jeff Rich are enthusiastic in their praise for the school and its impact on their young scholars. “There’s an incredible academic experience here – the education the students get is unparalleled in the community,” says Candace. “And they’re not just teaching math and science and reading – they’re teaching how to be good humans, reinforcing all the things that as parents you try to teach your kids at home – to be kind, fair and honest. They incorporate that into everything they do at this school.” The couple is particularly impressed with St. John’s agile response to the pandemic. “I can’t say enough positive things about the school,” says Jeff. “From the beginning [of the pandemic], like everyone else, we didn’t know how we were going to deal with this, and if our kids were ever going to be back in school. St. John’s created a plan and had it all laid out; but more importantly, they communicated it all to the parents so there was never a question [for parents] about how it would play out.” Candace agrees. “At the beginning of the pandemic, it became apparent that if there was one thing we could find comfort in, it was in ‘the St. John’s Experience.’ We knew the school was prepared for distance learning if necessary or in-classroom learning, with all the necessary precautions.”
Jeff and Candace with their kids Grace, Rocco and Gunner
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When you see other people giving, it’s contagious and
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you want to give as well.
The school’s caring, competent atmosphere compelled the couple to donate to the Eagles Fund to augment the school’s ability to deliver a great educational experience, even during a pandemic. “What makes St. John’s so special is the community and enthusiasm shared by families, students, teachers and staff,” says Candace. “Philanthropy is the lifeblood of the school. That’s what keeps the teachers happy, puts all the technology in the classrooms, and creates this loving, enthusiastic environment. When everybody has skin in the game, it automatically fosters this sense of community. When you see other people giving, it’s contagious and you want to give as well.” “I just think St. John’s has got it figured out,” Jeff emphasizes. “Through the years, they’ve built a reputation that they simply know what they’re doing. You can trust what you give will be used in the right way and will benefit children. We decided there’s no better investment we can make than in our children. We feel giving to St. John’s is the best use of our resources.”
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