Grandparents & Grandfriends Day: Schedule of Events
- 9:00am – All-School Mass | St. Joseph Church, 1382 Highland Avenue, Needham
- 10:15am – Reception and Student Program | Saint Joseph School, Kennedy Center/Lower School Gym, 90 Pickering Street
- The presentation will feature select students from Kindergarten through Grade 8.
- 10:00–11:45am – Classroom Visits
- Students in our Early Childhood Division (Little Sharks, Preschool, and Pre-K) will not be part of the student presentation. Grandparents and Grandfriends of those students are welcome to begin visiting Early Childhood classrooms at 10:00am.
- Please note that the Early Childhood Building does not have an elevator or ramp and is not handicap accessible.
- Classroom visits for our Lower and Upper School begin at 10:45am after the Student Presentation.
- 12:05pm (ECB) / 12:15pm – School Dismissal
Frequently Asked Questions
Event Date: Friday, May 2, 2025
Who’s invited?
This special day is for Grandparents and Grandfriends of current Saint Joseph School students. We kindly ask that parents/guardians not attend, in order to preserve this dedicated celebration for the grand generation in our students' lives.
What is a Grandfriend?
A Grandfriend is any special person in a student's life who fills the role of a grandparent—whether by family, friendship, or love. This may include aunts, uncles, godparents, neighbors, or family friends of a grandparent’s generation.
Do I need to RSVP to attend?
While RSVPs are not required, they are greatly appreciated. Please use the link provided in your invitation or email. Your response helps us plan for seating, refreshments, and classroom visits.
What is the schedule for the day?
9:00am – All-School Mass at St. Joseph Church (1360 Highland Avenue)
10:15am – Reception and Student Program at Saint Joseph School (90 Pickering Street)
10:45–11:45am – Classroom Visits (Early Childhood classrooms open at 10:00am)
12:05pm / 12:15pm – Dismissal
Where do I park?
Parking is available in the back lot of Saint Joseph School after student drop-off ends at 8:15am. Additional street parking is available nearby.
Handicap parking is available:
5 spaces on May Street (near the church’s elevator entrance)
2 spaces in the church lot (via Oakland Avenue entrance)
All spaces are first-come, first-served and clearly marked.
Where will students sit during Mass?
Students will sit with their classmates. Guests will be guided to designated seating areas. Ushers will be available to assist you. A Mass seating chart can be found here.
Will my grandchild be part of the student performance?
Students from Kindergarten through Grade 8 will be featured in the program.
Students in our Early Childhood Division (Little Sharks, Preschool, and Pre-K) will not be performing, but their classrooms will be open for visits beginning at 10:00am.
Is the school accessible for guests with mobility needs?
The main school building and Kennedy Center (Reception and Student Program) are accessible via ramp and elevator.
Please note: The Early Childhood building is not handicap accessible and does not have an elevator or ramp.
Can I visit my grandchild’s classroom?
Yes! Classroom visits take place from 10:45–11:45am (or 10:00am for Early Childhood visitors). We recommend checking with your grandchild’s family ahead of time to confirm their homeroom and teacher’s name.
Can I take my grandchild home after the event?
Yes, but early dismissals must be processed through the front office before 11:45am. A staffed table will be available outside the main office to assist with early dismissal requests.
Early Dismissal Reminder for Grandparents Day:
If families are planning to have their child dismissed early on Grandparents Day (before our regular 12:05/12:15pm dismissal), they should follow the proper early dismissal procedures by emailing the main office at attendance@sjs-needham.org no later than Thursday, May 1. This helps us stay organized and ensures a safe and smooth dismissal for all students—thank you!
Will there be refreshments?
Yes! A light reception with water and refreshments will be available during the student program in the Kennedy Center.
For any additional questions, contact Mrs. Mary Beth Cox at mcox@sjs-needham.org or Mrs. Tori Banu at tbanu@sjs-needham.org.
Help Us Guide Your Grandguests
To help your child’s Grandguests navigate the day with ease, we’ve created a simple printable form for families to complete in advance. This form includes your student’s name, grade, and homeroom teacher/location—details that help us direct guests to the correct classrooms during the visit. We kindly encourage you to fill it out and send it along with your guest on May 2.
Thank you for helping us make Grandparents & Grandfriends Day smooth and special for all!