Scripture reminds us that God himself accompanies our teachers and guides the formation of his children. Catholic schools embrace this mission — shaping young people academically, spiritually, and morally in a world that needs strong, faith-rooted voices more than ever.

As we celebrate Catholic Schools Week 2026, we look at St. Joseph School in Anderson, a pre-K through eighth-grade community in Anderson County. Established in 1967, St. Joseph provides a Christ-centered education grounded in strong academics, a welcoming family atmosphere, and a clear commitment to forming disciples.

The school is a STrEAM certified school — integrating science, technology, religion, engineering, the arts and mathematics — ensuring that faith and creativity are woven throughout learning. All students study Spanish, and middle schoolers study both Spanish and Latin, honoring the school’s multicultural community and its Catholic intellectual tradition.

Tuition assistance is available for families who qualify provided by the parish and through the state’s Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESTF). Currently, about half of the school’s 180 students receive some form of aid, making Catholic education accessible to families who desire it.

Principal Haymée Giuliani, who first served St. Joseph as a parent volunteer and director of religious education in the early 2000s, returned as principal after “much discernment and prayer. It felt like coming home to a community that welcomed our family years before.

“We extend that same welcome today — a sense of family, faith and belonging rooted in our mission to form disciples of Jesus Christ,” she said.

Giuliani emphasized that Catholic education forms the whole child — spiritually, intellectually, morally and socially.

“Our goal is to help students encounter the beauty of faith, language, culture and service as part of their Catholic identity. At St. Joseph’s, we prepare students not just for academic success, but for lives of virtue and discipleship.” 

Students attend school Mass every Friday with Father Philip S. Gillespie, pastor, and visitors are always welcome.

“Our community is beautifully diverse,” Giuliani said. “Anyone touring or visiting can see how our Catholic faith comes alive through our students, our liturgy, our service and our joy.”

“Catholic schools are communities of faith and excellence. We accompany families, support their children and form young people who strive to live with purpose and holiness. That is the heart of why we exist — to educate for eternity,” Giuliani said.

Learn More

Read how the Education Scholarship Trust Fund has helped several families, including one with an autistic child, attend St. Joseph School.

Visit the school at www.sjccs.net.