St John Neumann Catholic Elementary School in Columbia

Posted: April 24, 2025

My wife, daughter, and I came to Columbia in 2018 due to military orders I was stationed at Fort Jackson. My daughter was about to start Pre-k 4, and we wanted to find a good school for the 2 years we would be here. We not only found the 2-year school in St John Neumannwe found her school for the next 7 years and beyond. Instead of moving away in retirement, we stayed right here because of SJN. The culture of the school is so welcoming, kind, nurturing. It runs from the Principal and Asst Principal through the admin staff and to the teachers. My daughter is challenged academicallythe teachers teach in a way that makes learning fun and productive. Theres no teaching to the test at SJNyet, the school outperforms other schools in MAP testing. If youre a military family, you wont find better support for you and your kids at any other school in Columbia.

Posted: April 24, 2025

Posted: April 23, 2025

My son has been at SJN for four years now and we have been blown away. It has small class sizes and extremely dedicated teachers/staff. The individual attention the students receive allows them to flourish as learners. SJN also has many fun events and activities for students and families alike. The culture is nurturing and kind and the students are happy. It is a blessing to my family and all who choose SJN!

Posted: August 15, 2024

Excellent school and invaluable Staff, they are very professional and kindness with the students and parents. 100% dedicated to a quality education.

Posted: August 15, 2024

We love St. John Neumann! It's more than a school, it's a community, for the whole family. The smaller setting has allowed our son, who began at PK3, to not only get to know his immediate peers but also teachers and friends in other grades which makes the transition back into school each year, easier. I am confident that he is valued and known by name - not just a number. This type of environment fosters enthusiasm for learning, listening, creativity, and positivity!

Posted: August 17, 2023

I have two children who have grown up going through SJN. This school has been a positive game changer in my childrens growth developmentally, academically, emotionally, and spiritually. I am truly thankful for the wonderful teachers and administrators.

Posted: August 17, 2023

Posted: April 25, 2019

Is a great environment for students and their families.

Posted: April 25, 2019

Practice for skills is needed. Keeps the students engaged in their growth.

Posted: April 25, 2019

We are blessed to have our 2 children at SJN! We are certain they are receiving the most loving, caring, supportive, spiritual fulfilling and safe learning environment possible! Wouldn't choose any other school! <3

Posted: February 13, 2018

A +, Excellent, and we are so thrilled we decided on SJN for our son and for our family. This school is a strong community and it has a feel of a large family.

Posted: February 13, 2018

We feel the homework our son comes home with is well planned, is well rounded and is challenging.

Posted: February 13, 2018

The teachers at SJN truly care for the well being of each student. They know every childs name, they care about making sure the child is in the correct level for their ability and we feel we are in the very best care and our son is thriving with all of his studies

Posted: February 13, 2018

The very one detail that sold us on going to SJN was the interaction we had with the children during the tour. We were so impressed with their politeness, every child that passed said good morning and looked you in the eye. Every child today still seems as happy, content, fulfilled, challenged and respectful. We have been here for 2 years and we are so pleased with our son and his friends.

Posted: February 13, 2018

Our Principal, Vice Principal, Clergy are all very involved with every detail. There is so much love, care, safety, education and fun in every day!

Posted: February 13, 2018

SJN teaches to the individual child and works well managing the level of comprehension and learning for each one. If your child reads intensely then they can elevate to the next level and continue being challenged. If your child needs extra work in a study there is a program that helps the child keep up and to pace with the class work. This school does not teach to the grade it teachers to the child and there is a huge difference in the outcome of a child that can be helped or further nurtured.

Posted: February 13, 2018

There simply would not be any tolerance towards this and not only would the teachers address this right away but so would the administration.

Posted: January 18, 2018

We were new to Columbia when we were searching for schools to send our Kindergartener and our realtor encouraged us to tour the school. I was reluctant since we aren't Catholic but decided to take a closer look since we weren't feeling that public schools were the right choice for us. I was so impressed during our tour from the high tech classrooms and computer lab to the warmth of the staff and the small class sizes. Our son has excelled in his classes and loves going to school everyday. We are excited to start our youngest there in the Fall.

Posted: January 18, 2018

Posted: November 9, 2017

This is our family's ninth year at St. John Neumann School, and we are so excited to see the positive changes and recent updates with curriculum, student focused learning, and all-around educational and Catholic environment.

The faculty, staff and administration are caring, enthusiastic and wonderful examples for our boys.

#teamSJN #SJNWorldClass

Posted: November 9, 2017

Posted: November 8, 2017

We pulled our second grader out of public school after finding out that teachers and the administration there had attributed her difficulties to her race. She was "doing fine for a Hispanic child". That sealed the deal and we put her in St. John Neumann. There no one has mentioned the color of her skin once. The question has never been how she is doing for a Hispanic but rather how she is doing for a child her age. She has since been diagnosed with a learning disability and her teachers have worked together with the STAR room teachers (special needs teachers) to get her the help she needs. Her grades are up and so is her confidence.

Posted: November 8, 2017

Our experience at SJN has been excellent. Both the faculty and families welcomed us last year as a new family and the support has carried over to this year, our second year. I have seen our 2nd grader and kindergartner blossom at SJN. Their vocabulary is growing, they speak about current events and moral issues intelligently and I see them growing in character. Highly recommend!

Posted: November 21, 2016

Our child is thriving in this school. There are many positive differences between this school and the school my child previously attended. The staff, the teachers and the retiring principal are all incredible people and their commitment to a creating a thriving environment while providing the highest quality education is first and formost all the while teaching children to be respectful, well mannered and loving to each other. We could not be happier with this school. No school is perfect but we find this school to be an outstanding experience for our child and our family.

Posted: November 21, 2016

Posted: April 21, 2016

It absolutely depends on the teacher. Many of the most sought-after teachers chose to leave. In fact, the only teacher I would want my child to have is a third-grade teacher who will retire this year.

Posted: April 21, 2016

At one time, our family loved this pre-K to sixth-grade school. However, the principal is a tyrant and not an instructional leader. Even sadder is that the priest ignores parents' concerns, despite these complaints being well documented. In spite of these conditions, the teachers attempt to make the school great and welcoming. Obviously, they care very much for their students and growing them as learners. For instance, the librarian fills her students will a love for reading. Many parents were hoping that 6th grade would be moved to the new Catholic middle school and high school just down the road. If it had been, maybe my children would not be attending public school now.

Posted: November 18, 2015

SJN helps instill a strong moral compass! My children will carry their lessons throughout their life - and THIS school, THESE teachers, THAT principle was the reason.

Posted: August 31, 2015

SJN parents, has ur son been personally diagnosed by the principal as having ADHD? Last time I checked boys are more active and sometimes need more redirection but it depends on the child. I know the principal is not a Psychologist. She is intolerant of male children. So beware if she insists to put ur child on meds

Posted: June 4, 2015

The SACS Accreditation team spent three days with us last week. Such things as academics, faculty, administration, school board, and family and student input were looked at. We came through with flying colors! Please come and evaluate for yourself how our children experience success. We are thrilled with our evaluation and will be glad to share it with you.

Posted: May 7, 2015

Unfortunately, what you have heard is true. Just yesterday, a second teacher resigned! Teachers and students are leaving, and moving on to bigger and better places. Our family is one of SEVERAL families pulling out after this school year. You need to make your own decision, of course, but it looks to me that the exit is much larger than the entrance!

Posted: November 14, 2014

I didn't realize great schools was moderated. Obviously nothing here is true, all the real opinions have been deleted.

Posted: November 13, 2014

I have never seen a successful business just "happen" without solid leadership. This principal does have great expectations of the faculty, staff, parents, and students. Don't see this as a problem. If you set the bar low, you will only have mediocre results. Set the bar high, you can achieve greatness. The principal is very approachable and willing to find a way to make things work for all involved. We have never experienced an issue with our student (who is, incidentally, ADD) not being able to thrive. Communication with the faculty, staff, and principal have always been key. These people love the children here and want to see them succeed!

Posted: November 13, 2014

As a teacher and parent, I can say that there is no other school I would send my children.

Posted: November 11, 2014

Its sad when disgruntled employees choose to rant against an administration instead of looking in the mirror and having an "aha" moment. I do agree with everything said regarding teachers, parents and students. Every child exceeds their dreams and is loved and nurtured in the process. However, the Principal is amazing. It is never easy to be a leader but it is easy to criticize what you don't understand. Walk a mile in her shoes and I think there would be a different tune. She is 100% dedicated to her staff and is all about each child. She goes out of her way every day and frankly, it's the little things that most don't see that make the difference. As to the Pastor's passiveness...ha! That's funny. He knows better because HE knows better!!! Enough said...good gracious!

Posted: November 4, 2014

I loved teaching at this school. The students, parents, and faculty made everyday worthwhile. The school's greatest strengths are its many fantastic teachers and its delightful student body. However, the principal and parish priest may be the school s downfall. The principal is unfriendly, uninformed, and attempts to bully those teachers who express their professional concerns. The parish priest is indifferent to the troubles the teachers face and willing to turn a blind-eye to the principal s abusive nature.

Posted: August 11, 2014

This school is fabulous. Is it the best fit for everyone? No, but what school is! Everyone does what is best for the children. I don't understand the comments about the principal. She is one of the most caring, kind people we have ever experienced in a school. The school is the best that it is because of her. She will listen to all. It is when some parents don't get "their way" that they feel she does not "listen" and is a "dictator." I would not want it any other way. Who else knows what is best for the school. She hires some wonderful teachers and guides them to help each child. The teachers accomodate all children, challenging them to be the best they can be. If you want to experience a school like no other, come here.

Posted: August 11, 2014

Sometimes, it is better for some unhappy people to move on! My children have been at this school for 7 years and we are VERY happy. The principal is like no other. She is helpful, kind, and always warm and friendly. Under her guidance, the teachers go out of their way to help all of the children. One of mine would be one of the children that has special needs, she has been diagnosed with ADHD. The principal developed a plan based on the recommendations sent from our doctor, and the teachers go out of their way to help her. This school is truly God blessed. We are so happy here and would NEVER consider going to another school. My only regret is that our oldest will be graduating soon. I wish this school would consider going through high school!

Posted: August 5, 2014

The Principal is a dictator. There is nobody's way but her way. DO NOT and I repeat DO NOT send your child there if they have any kind of learning disability (ADD,ADHD,etc) because the school is not equipped to help these children "Experience Success." There is no Guidance Counselor or Psychologist on campus. Like a post below mentioned the school caters to the gifted children leaving the children who need help left behind. Don't waste your money. My child will NOT be returning.

Posted: June 9, 2014

An absolutely outstanding educational environment! My children attended a very highly rated public school for one year before we realized that we needed a different educational setting. The teachers could not teach due to the amount of behavioral disruptions in the classroom. My children came home asking questions about things that no small children should be overhearing from classmates. However, after two minutes in this school, I realized we had found home. The teachers are incredibly dedicated and professional, and they will give each individual child exactly what he or she needs to soar. My children's standardized test scores are now in the top 95th percentile in both math and reading, and it is due to the commitment and dedication of the faculty. They motivate and inspire, they model and guide, they love and care. The educational environment is safe and quiet, and the children's manners are exceptional. The students care for one another because they watch their teachers treat all with respect every day. This school has made such a positive impact on the lives of my children, and I know that they are getting an incredibly strong foundation in academics and faith.

Posted: March 5, 2014

This school is very frustrating because the principle does not accept ideas from the parents witch is very frustrating and she listens to nobody

Posted: March 5, 2014

From the beginning we were very impressed with the teachers. They interacted with the students very well, however, They could have been better had they not been intimidated by the principal. She seems to be a dictator, only looking out for her big sponsors. I do not blame the teachers for their intimidation.

Posted: January 13, 2014

The school is losing its luster.....parents are not getting involved. Principal is inflexible to new ideas and that is frustrating parents. Seems like students are only doing projects and the students are not being challenged. Very frustrating!!

Posted: June 5, 2013

We have been at SJN for almost 7 years and really are pleased with our investment. By the time the kids reach 5th grade, there is such a strong sense of community among them. I would highly suggest that anyone considering SJN go ahead and get your child into the preschool/kindergarten program so that he/she can bond with the other children before the higher grades. I have never been a proponent of private education but this has been a perfect fit for our son who once had a tendency to be on the shy side. So confident now. The school does have a very strong principal who may be perceived as inflexible but she knows her stuff. The kids have much respect for her.

Posted: May 9, 2013

I guess my previous post was deleted b/c I used the principal's name so here is a summation of what it said. This school is great in spite of the principal. The teachers and parents are what make this school great. The principal is not willing to explore any new ideas (unless it was the principal s idea). New parents are fooled by the principal s notes, signing every paper, etc. The more you deal with the principal; you realize how this person really works. The principal is a dictator. The teachers and students truly fear the principal. Parental involvement continues to decline due to the frustrations with the principal. A new principal is needed to lead SJN into the future because the principal is out of touch with most of the members of the school. New ideas are what will allow SJN to continue to excel and be a leader in academics.

Posted: April 25, 2013

We took both of our children out of this school. One has a mild learning difference, but wonderfully behaved. The principal is a true dictator and micro-manager. She has created a tense and oppressive atmosphere overall. FInd another school or find out the hard way.

Posted: January 27, 2013

Our son has attended SJN for 6 years and we have been pleased. The school does an excellent job at providing a Christian environment (we are not Catholic but a third of the families there are not) and providing values based character building in all grades. Academics are excellent and the differentiated instruction assures that children will be appropriately challenged. Many students qualify for the Duke TIPS Program and/or are picked up by the top public magnet middle schools. Expectations are high of the students but we believe that is a good thing. The school is very structured which we like. There is limited tolerance for negative behavior issues which could potentially affect the learning experience of other children. Class size is kept low in preschool - 4th grade. Upper grade classes are often higher. The prior comments about the elitist attitude/feel of the school dumbfounds me as we picked this school over Hammond and Heathwood because it did NOT have an elitist feel. Diverse students. Participative parents. Award winning principal, board and teachers. Very safe environment. Only complaint my son has is having to wear a uniform. :)

Posted: April 10, 2012

I am a sixth grade student at SJN. This is a great school! I have only been here two years, but I have learned more here than in all my other years of elementary school. I love the teachers, the expansive library, and the differentiated instruction that they do here. This school has improved my study habits and my work ethic. I also enjoy the production each grade gets to act in every year. The teachers give the students opportunities to come in after school for extra help if they are confused on a subject. The principal also goes out of her way to recognize students for sports awards, good behavior, and exceptional grades. SJN is an amazing school!

Posted: July 24, 2011

This school was horrible for my child. He was constantly put in detention and made to do chores that the janitor should have been doing. I am deeply disappointed by the elitist attitude at this school.

Posted: November 5, 2010

Definitely a school where children experience success on a daily basis. I have a child in his 7th year at SJN and one in her 4th year. My children have been challeged since day one at SJN. The teacher involvement is superb. The environment is SAFE, loving, and nurturing. The differentiated instruction is happening in every class. If parents don't see this it's because they aren't involved! As for an elementary education....you can't get any better than this. Nothing can compare!

Posted: May 16, 2010

We have both of our sons at SJN and it is worth the sacrifices we've made in order to be able to afford to send them there. After considering going to public schools in the area, we quickly realized that no other school in the area comes close to comparing to SJN.

Posted: June 11, 2009

Posted: March 25, 2009

Posted: October 22, 2007

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Spring Valley	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Columbia	SC	2.3 mi
2	Longcreek Plantation	Area of Town	Blythewood	SC	6.4 mi
3	Reflections	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Columbia	SC	8.3 mi
4	Linwood plantation	Neighborhood/Subdivision	Dalzell	SC	24.7 mi

Base	Distance
Fort Jackson	6 mi.
McEntire Joint National Guard Base	12.5 mi.
Shaw AFB	25 mi.

St John Neumann Catholic Elementary School

Columbia, SC 29223

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St John Neumann Catholic Elementary School

Columbia, SC 29223

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