Frequently Asked Questions

Does Princeton Junior School have a special niche?

July 10, 2012
Children thrive at Princeton Junior School because we provide a rich academic curriculum for the youngest students, within a unique environment where early childhood is nurtured and protected. Our focus on the young child (age 2 through Fifth Grade) and our small class sizes allow students to flourish and develop as individuals as well as scholars. In addition, the school's deep appreciation and commitment to the arts, environmental sciences, and community service have earned distinction among peer schools. Because our focus is on the youngest learners, children develop great confidence in themselves and their abilities.

Why does PJS stop at the Fifth Grade?

July 09, 2012
PJS was founded and built to offer the highest standard of education for very young children, beginning at age 2. Children at PJS are curious, creative, and spirited. We believe that confidence, more than intelligence or talent, will determine their success. Here, without the influence of older children to inhibit them, our students take the lead at an earlier age. They learn to express themselves clearly and to make presentations, to develop core knowledge and to be part of a small community that cherishes each and every member. We provide the strong foundation for your child's entire academic career.

How many students attend Princeton Junior School?

July 08, 2012
Historically, our preschool to Fifth Grade enrollment has been approximately 110 students.

What is your average class size?

July 07, 2012
Class sizes are deliberately small, with a range of 6-9 children in preschool classes and 10-15 in elementary school classes. The maximum size for elementary school is 15 students.

How are the children evaluated? Are there grades?

July 06, 2012
Parents and children receive constant feedback about the student's progress. Parents of children in both the preschool and elementary grades receive written progress reports from their child's teachers in November and February and a full-year written summary in June. Parent-teacher conferences coincide with the written progress reports in November and February. Students do not receive formal grades. Assessments of children's work are based upon written assignments, projects, presentations, and portfolios. Our academic atmosphere is not competitive; rather, we strive for each child to reach his or her full potential as a student and as a good citizen of the world. We use some standardized testing at the end of each year for Kindergarten through Fifth Grade in rode to ensure that all the academic goals are achieved.

Where do your graduates go after Fifth Grade?

July 05, 2012
Princeton Junior School graduates are highly sought after by area schools, and are well prepared for middle school. Students are consistently admitted to the school of their choice for Sixth Grade, including The Hun School, The Pennington School, Princeton Day School, Stuart Country Day School, Princeton Academy, as well as a wide variety of other private and public schools.

Do the children participate in sports?

July 04, 2012
Princeton Junior School students enjoy outdoor recess every day, and younger students go out several times each day. More formal education is offered outdoors several times a week, weather permitting. Students in elementary school participate in exercises, games, and informal competitions, where they learn good sportsmanship as well as the rules of the game. In addition, PJS offers after-school clubs that focus on strength, agility, and control while emphasizing teamwork and sportsmanship. After school clubs include baseball, soccer yoga, and running and fitness.

Are there extracurricular activities at the School?

July 03, 2012
Yes. There are several clubs in which students may participate after school or during their lunch recess, including the Choir, Student Council, Book Club, Press Club, Science Club, Cooking Club, Arts & Crafts Club, Create Your Own Video Game Club, History Club, Baseball Club, and Soccer Club. Read more...

Is there a birthday cutoff for Preschool and Kindergarten?

July 02, 2012
Kindergarten children should be age 5 and JK children should be age 4 by September 1. In some circumstances we will make an exception based upon the academic and developmental readiness of a prospective student.

Is there an after-school program for children with working parents?

July 01, 2012
Yes. Children may stay after school until 6 p.m. on a contract or drop-in basis as part of our after-school program (for an additional fee). There is also a teacher-moderated homework club for students in Grades II-V (for an additional fee). A vacation program is available for children in preschool and kindergarten to provide year-round coverage, if needed, for an additional fee. Read more...

Frequently Asked Questions

June 30, 2012

Schedule a tour of PJS today & learn more about our preschool and elementary school programs! Contact our Admissions Coordinator, Courtney Shannon at admissions@pjs.org or 609-924-8126, ext. 103.