Welcome back to SJN!
A Message from SJN President Robert J. Fine
Families often ask us about the value of a Private Independent Boarding School Education.
At St. John’s Northwestern, the return on an education here is evident in countless ways, through our students’ academic growth, their strong sense of community, and the confidence and independence they build during their years with us. Our proud history and mission are centered on providing each young person with a safe, structured environment that serves as a foundation for life.
Being away from home, preparing to make the most of each day, and taking personal responsibility for even the smallest details—making your bed, cleaning your room, folding your clothes, presenting yourself with pride in uniform, and maintaining a rigorous schedule—are not just daily tasks; they are life skills. These experiences shape disciplined, motivated leaders who are prepared to excel in higher education, their careers, and whatever future they aspire to.
It is also evident in the impressive college acceptances and merit-based scholarships our graduates earn, as well as the valuable college credits they achieve through dual-credit and Advanced Placement courses.
The return on investment is reflected in the success of our alumni—thriving in college, leading in their professions, and making a positive impact in their communities and the world.”
Admittedly, we are not unbiased about the value of an SJN education. We are energized by the possibilities that lie ahead for incoming classes and the tremendous impact that their education will have on their lives.
As we move further into the 21st century of learning, St. John’s is committed to modernizing both our educational approach and our brand identity. One of the most visible changes you will see this year is our transition to “Academy.” This shift reflects our renewed focus on one school, one mission, and one student at a time—a vision that strengthens our brand, enhances our marketing, and positions us well for the future.
At our core, we are a private, independent, college-preparatory boarding school, with the emphasis firmly on preparatory. Our mission is to equip every student with the skills, discipline, and confidence needed to thrive in the future. Each young person receives a safe and structured environment paired with rigorous academic support.
For students seeking to pursue their passions in specialized fields, we proudly offer signature programs. Our JROTC–Leadership Program, the cornerstone of our legacy, provides students the opportunity to join the prestigious Corps of Cadets while preparing for ROTC scholarships and United States Service Academy appointments. Our Engineering, Robotics, and Aviation (ERA) Program fosters innovation, critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork—skills essential for success in today’s world. Finally, the SJN–DME Basketball Program has a proven record of excellence, producing elite athletes, including NBA first-round draft picks. In our academic program, we are proud to offer the AP Capstone Program (and diploma) along with numerous College Dual Enrollment Courses.
Together, these programs embody our commitment to preparing students for success in college, in career, and in life.
We hope to see you on campus this fall for a visit to see our ongoing updates and changes.
Warm Regards,
President Robert J. Fine
About St. John’s Northwestern
St. John’s Northwestern is a safe, structured environment that provides each student a foundation for life with specialized programs that are built with future aspirations in mind. SJN is a private co-ed college preparatory boarding and day school and is accepting applications for grades 7-12 and post-graduate. Learn more at stjohnsnorthwestern.org today.