Education That is
Beyond Ordinary.
PICK A TOUR GUIDE
See What Makes SJS Great
Our school family is brought to life by the parents, students and faculty that care for and support one another.
“Our kids tend to be much more focused, attentive, and mission-driven which is very much promoted within the Catholic educational spirit.”
VIDEO SPOTLIGHT
"What is Catholic School like for non-Catholics?"
"What is the legacy of Saint Joseph School?"
GRADUATE AHEAD OF THE CURVE
Our Academic Advantage: Dual Enrollment Tracks
Saint Joseph High School is setting a new standard in education through a historic partnership with Shepherd University and Blue Ridge Community & Technical College.
SJHS Crusaders will have access to 100 and 200-level courses, fine arts programs, and trade skills training while still in high school.
This means every student can:
- Earn college credits in core subjects and career pathways
- Get a head start on degrees and certifications before graduation
- Experience hands-on learning in fields like cybersecurity, healthcare, and business
- Enjoy exclusive access to fine arts, music, and theatre programs at Shepherd University
“This partnership represents a monumental leap forward for high school education in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia,” said Deacon Patrick Michel, Head of School for Saint Joseph High School.
“We’re giving our students the tools, experiences, and opportunities they need to thrive in both academic and career settings. It’s not just about preparing them for the next step; it’s about helping them take that step while they’re still with us.”
Saint Joseph High School
Our Mission
At Saint Joseph School, we are dedicated to nurturing young minds and hearts in the spirit of the Gospel. We foster Catholic values, inspire academic excellence, and cultivate a sense of global responsibility, while guiding our students to lead lives of service and compassion.
Our average class size is 15 students, allowing for a range of 11 to 23 students per class. This fosters a close-knit learning environment where each student is known and supported.
At Saint Joseph High School, our student handbook is thoughtfully designed to create an environment where every student can thrive. While it may feel structured, the guidelines are in place to minimize distractions and encourage a respectful, focused learning atmosphere. By setting clear expectations, we’re able to remove unnecessary boundaries between students, allowing them to concentrate fully on their growth, studies, and faith. The handbook is less about restrictions and more about building a positive, supportive community where each student feels valued and able to succeed.
Choosing a school is a personal decision, and we understand that every family has unique needs and values. Saint Joseph High School is deeply rooted in Catholic principles, offering a faith-based education that prioritizes academic excellence, character development, and a sense of community. However, we warmly welcome families from all faith backgrounds. Our approach focuses on instilling respect, compassion, and integrity in every student, helping them grow academically and personally.
If you’re looking for an environment where your child can receive a well-rounded education, be challenged academically, and build strong moral values, then Saint Joseph High School may be a wonderful fit for your family. We’d love to connect with you to explore if our school aligns with your goals and hopes for your child’s education.
A QUALITY EDUCATION
For Everyone
At Saint Joseph High School, we believe that a high-quality, faith-based education should be accessible to as many families as possible. We are dedicated to making this opportunity affordable and offer multiple avenues for tuition assistance.
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THE SJS STORY
SJS CRUSADER LIBRARY
Our Guides & Insights
Our Crusader Library is your go-to resource for expert guides, helpful insights, and everything you need to navigate the Saint Joseph High School experience. Explore articles on academics, dual enrollment, financial aid, and student life—all designed to help you make the best decisions for your family’s future. 🚀✨
THE SJHS STORY
141 years of Catholic education in Martinsburg, WV.
SCHOOL HISTORY
TRADITION & Innovation
Saint Joseph School has a rich history that began on September 4, 1883, when the Daughters of Charity from Emmitsburg, Maryland, founded the school in a two-story wooden building with four classrooms on East Stephen Street. In the late 1880s, the school was relocated to the west side of South Queen Street.
In 1905, the school expanded to include a four-year high school, and by 1913, the original wooden structure was replaced with a two-story, eight-room brick building. This new facility was dedicated on October 14, 1914, by Rev. William Anthony McKeefrey. The first high school class, comprising eight students, graduated in 1915, marking the beginning of a legacy of academic excellence.
A gymnasium was added in 1938, becoming a hub of school spirit and athletic success. The Saint Joseph Crusaders basketball team drew crowds from across West Virginia, achieving numerous victories, including a celebrated state competition win in 1967.
The high school closed its doors in 1970, with the final graduating class completing their studies that same year.
In 2000, Saint Joseph School moved to its current location across Stephen Street, where a new gym was built after the original gymnasium was torn down in 2006. The historic eight-room brick building on Queen Street was repurposed in 2023 to house our middle school, while the former four-room high school building now serves as the home for our prekindergarten program.
Saint Joseph School’s enduring history is a testament to its commitment to providing a faith-filled, high-quality education, adapting and growing to meet the needs of our community while honoring the legacy that began over a century ago.
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