We believe in
preserving the
wonder of
childhood.

We believe in
preserving the
wonder of
childhood.

Our Philosophy

Childhood is not rushed at St. James’. In a digitally connected world, it can be difficult to provide children with the space they need to develop at their own pace. With our small class sizes, highly involved parent community, beautiful but unpretentious campus, St. James’ provides students with a safe and uncomplicated space to grow. Our dedicated teachers guide and encourage a diverse student body in a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Our Philosophy

Childhood is not rushed at St. James’. In a digitally connected world, it can be difficult to provide children with the space they need to develop at their own pace. With our small class sizes, highly involved parent community, beautiful but unpretentious campus, St. James’ provides students with a safe and uncomplicated space to grow. Our dedicated teachers guide and encourage a diverse student body in a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Preserving the Wonder
of Childhood

Co-Curricular Classes

Students receive specialized instruction in Spanish, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Music, Art, Design & Technology, Social-Emotional Learning, Religion, and Library.

Field Trips

Our tuition-inclusive field trips allow our students to build resilience, enjoy outdoor team-building experiences, and have FUN!

As a child, everything is new. At St. James’ Episcopal School, we believe in preserving the natural curiosity children possess. We prioritize creating an environment where students thrive in the wondrous exploration of all that life has to offer! We know students build their confidence when they are able to safely experiment with new activities, examine new ideas, play freely, and discover a variety of cultures. With that growth mindset, research tells us that what they can achieve is virtually boundless!

It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.

— E. E. Cummings

Beyond School Opportunities

St. James’ offers many opportunities for our students beyond the school day including tuition-inclusive free play, over 50 after school classes per trimester for K – 6th grade students, and sports.

Sports

Whether through golf, soccer, volleyball, basketball or flag football, sports at St. James’ supports emerging athletes while emphasizing the balance between competition and good sportsmanship.

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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.