We believe in providing our children an exceptional
academic foundation.

We believe in providing our children an exceptional
academic foundation.

Our Philosophy

We believe an excellent academic foundation provides our students with the incalculable benefit of choice as they move through life, including where they matriculate in the future. Academic achievement begins with educators who engage children with empathy, insight, and an awareness of the many ways that children learn. At St. James’, our teachers strive to equip students with the confidence and intellectual skills to tackle academic challenges while our pre-school offers a safe, nurturing environment that sparks curiosity and encourages self-discovery.

Our Philosophy

We believe an excellent academic foundation provides our students with the incalculable benefit of choice as they move through life, including where they matriculate in the future. Academic achievement begins with educators who engage children with empathy, insight, and an awareness of the many ways that children learn. At St. James’, our teachers strive to equip students with the confidence and intellectual skills to tackle academic challenges while our pre-school offers a safe, nurturing environment that sparks curiosity and encourages self-discovery.

Providing Our Children
an Exceptional Academic Foundation

Preschool

Explore the engaging curriculum for our youngest learners at St. James’ Preschool.

Matriculation

98% of the Class of 2026 received an offer from their first or second-choice school with 68% of this graduating class attending Harvard-Westlake, Campbell Hall, and Marlborough.

St. James’ offers a core curriculum in Reading, Writing, Math, Social Studies, and Science designed to engage and challenge every student. We recognize that students approach subjects with varying levels of interest and ability and our focus is on ensuring that each student adopts a growth mindset, helping them to stretch beyond their comfort zones and unlock their full potential.

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

— N. Mandela

Elementary

St. James’ students explore literacy, math, social studies, computing and design, science, and the arts. Student learning is regularly celebrated through presentations, publishing events, and performances.

Our Teachers

Our teachers are the lifeblood of St. James’ and we understand what a profoundly positive impact they have on our young students. We are very proud of the fact that we have many educators who have taught at St. James’ for over a decade.

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Laura petersen

Preschool Director

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
B.A. in Administration

Pasadena City College
Child Development 

Certificates/Recognition

Responsive Classroom, Child Care Center Application, Outdoor Classroom

Laura is an experienced educational leader with more than 20 years of experience in education. Throughout her career, Laura has worked with children and families across a variety of educational settings, with a particular passion for creating nurturing, engaging, and supportive environments where children can thrive. Prior to joining St. James’, Laura served as the Director of a private school in Pasadena serving children from infancy through sixth grade. She also spent 12 years at Saint Mark’s Episcopal School in Altadena, where she developed a deep understanding of the importance of strong relationships between educators, children, and families.

Laura holds a degree in Business Administration, but has always had a passion for early childhood education.  Laura believes children learn best when they feel safe, valued, encouraged, and genuinely known. Her approach to leadership centers on creating a warm and welcoming school community while supporting teachers in providing meaningful experiences for every child. Outside of her professional life, Laura is a proud mother of two children. She has also opened her home as a foster parent to multiple children, an experience that has strengthened her understanding of the individual needs, experiences, and strengths every child brings with them. Laura  is honored to serve as Preschool Director and looks forward to partnering with families to create a joyful, supportive, and enriching foundation for each child’s educational journey.