35 years ago here at St. James’, our then-rector Michael Curry had a vision for a school. With the support of the vestry, he and a group of dedicated parishioners went to work, laying the groundwork for what would become St. James’ Academy. Although the vision was for a school, it began as an after-school program. The mission was simple but vital to the well-being of our community children… to provide a haven for children after school ends with meals, homework assistance, and fun.

St. James’ Academy was an organization made by volunteers: from those that envisioned it, to those who organized the new group as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to those educators that devised how it would operate, to those that worked directly with the children. The parish embraced the “Academy” and generously provided the funding for it to operate.

Circa 1995, a bequest came to us from the estate of Eleanor Gross. Who was Eleanor Gross? She resided in the same building as Bruce and Ella Edemy, long-time members of St. James knew of the Academy and its work in Sandtown/Winchester. Ms. Gross made an awesome decision to assist in ensuring the long-term viability of the Academy with her $450,000 gift… an unexpected gift that is still at work for children.

The Academy expanded beyond the school year to operate a five-week summer enrichment program. During COVID, we provided funding for the Druid Hill YMCA to assist children during the day with virtual learning. As we move into the future, we will focus on expanding our impact within the 21217 community. We will continue to support afterschool programming at Harlem Park Elementary Middle School, in the 21217.

The annual Big Band Fundraiser event has been supported through the continued partnership of St. John's Episcopal Church, who has hosted this event for many years, and the unwavering support of SJEC parishioners through their ticket purchases and sponsorships.

15th Annual Big Band Fundraiser - St James Academy

Team Members