We are pleased to offer many after school activities - competitive athletics, intramural athletics, clubs, and performing arts - to help each student find and develop his or her own talents and skills at all grade levels. After school activities support healthy socialization, leadership development, and community service. We encourage all students to try new things and get involved.
Athletics
Our athletic options in the past have included Cross Country (fall, gr. 3-8), Field Hockey (fall, gr. 5-8), Basketball (winter, gr. 3-8), Ski Club (winter, gr. 5-8) and Volleyball (spring gr. 5-8). For more information visit our Athletics page.
Interest Clubs
After School Clubs run three sessions throughout the school year and coincide with the three academic trimesters. Past interest clubs have included art club, chess club, and flag football. This year’s sessions will run on the following dates:
- Fall: Week of Sep 23-Week of Nov 11 (make-ups determined by moderators)
- Winter: Week of Jan 13-Week of March 10 (make-ups determined by moderators)
- Spring: Week of March 16-Week of May 11 (make-ups determined by moderators)
Performing Arts
Choral Opportunities
The primary responsibility of the choir is to provide music for the monthly First Friday Liturgies. However, the choir also participates in many all-school functions both in and out of the building, providing music for prayer services, concerts, and assemblies.
The choir, directed by Dr. Carlo Serrano, rehearses once a week on Wednesdays from 2:40-3:20pm in the Music Room. This program is free of charge and students in grades 3-8 are welcome to participate: Choir Registration Form.
Drama & Musical Theatre
The after-school drama program is designed to foster a love of the performing arts and give the students a positive theatrical experience in a supportive environment. Exposing students to the world of theatre is a positive experience that will enable them to "think on their feet" as well as creatively work in a supportive environment. Our hope is that this drama experience will not only improve the students’ imagination and boost their self-confidence, it will also develop a life-long appreciation for the arts as they become more aware of the world around them. The program is directed by Judith Pratt (jpratt@sjs-needham.org).
Interested students in Grades 4-8 learn acting, singing and basic dance skills that are put together in rehearsal for an age-appropriate musical performance for all to enjoy! Each program is designed to expand the children’s ability as they grow more and more comfortable on stage. More information and sign-up to come.
Concert Band & Instrument Lessons
Paul Effman Music leads our band program. Students are grouped by instrument and level of performance. The band meets weekly for 30 minutes altogether, and then will additionally meet in small groups for lessons. The Saint Joseph School band will host two concerts throughout the year: the Christmas Performance and the Spring Concert.
To support our band program, private lessons are offered at our school on the following instruments: flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone and percussion. Students are invited to take private, semi-private, or beginner group lessons. Instrument rentals can be arranged. More info HERE!