Sunday Mornings: St. James Downtown- 8:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m. & 11:15 a.m.; More

  25 S. 3rd Street, Wilmington, NC 28401  ·   910.763.1628  ·       Give & Realm

St. James Parish
  • Welcome
  • Lent at St. James
  • About
    • Announcements
    • Our Mission
    • Clergy & Staff
    • Vestry
    • Administration
    • Campus Map
    • St. James Parish History
    • St. James Graveyard
    • St. James Foundation
    • Mt. Lebanon Chapel
    • Membership
    • Episcopal 101
  • Worship
    • Service Schedules
    • Watch Online
    • Sermons
    • Music & Choirs
    • Worship Ministries
    • Baptism
    • Confirmation
    • Weddings
    • Funerals
  • Ministries
    • Children's Ministries
    • Congregational Care
    • Evangelism
    • Faith Formation
    • Outreach
    • Committee for Racial Unity
    • Parish Life
    • Worship
    • Youth Ministries
  • Calendar
    • All Calendar Events
    • Parish Events
    • Ministry Schedules
    • Room Reservation Requests
  • Day School
    • About SJDS
    • SJDS Staff
    • Registration
    • Tuition
    • 2023 Summer Camps
    • SJDS 2022-2023 Calendar
  • Give

About St. James Day School

The Day School curriculum includes student-directed and teacher-directed activities to allow teachers to observe and foster the children's interests. All learning activities are adapted to be responsive to all children. We use learning centers, group time, math concepts, art, and music to give each student a balanced education that will prepare them for the future.

Our school offers a theme-based curriculum tailored to the academic needs of each child. Each theme contains music, plays, art, math, cooking, science experiments, books, and songs. Our teachers offer meaningful, child-centered education that focuses on the children's emerging interests.

TESTIMONIALS

“I would like to thank St James Day School for the loving and nurturing education they have provided all three of my children in their very formative toddler and preschool years. Each of my children started kindergarten confident and fully prepared to embark on their elementary school education. They were treated with love and respect by all the teachers and staff at the school. I felt very much at ease with how welcome I was as a parent to be involved in the community as well. I wholeheartedly recommend St. James Day School to anyone looking for the best preschool experience for their child.” Susannah Aylesworth, Parent of Jack (5), Lousia (14), and Sadie (16).

"St. James Day School has been a wonderful choice for our children. Our two boys have grown so much at SJDS and feel loved and cared for beyond measure. The close-knit community makes for a safe and nurturing learning environment where children are free to be themselves. Words could never truly express our love and appreciation for SJDS teachers and staff." Jamie and Mike Brown, Parents of Miller (2) and Corbett (5)

"Our children have had an wonderful experience at St. James Day School. They are excited to go to school each day. We have been so impressed with the thought, energy, and time the teachers and staff put into their classroom and teaching. Their teachers’ encouragement, patience, and care during the year have had such a positive impact on our lives and we are forever grateful." Suiter and Ben Currin, Parents of Virginia (4) and Jack (2).

"We are thrilled with our experience at St. James Day School. We cannot say enough about our childrens' student experiences. The nurturing teachers and staff have created a loving environment that strikes a wonderful balance between academics and play. It has been a real joy to watch their social skills and confidence blossom in their short time there." Erin and Allen Trask, Parents of Nelson (6), Marian (4), and George (2)

"I cannot say enough great things about St. James Day School! My children both love their teachers and classmates and every day is a "great day!" The children are challenged with academics and social skills while learning the importance of love and kindness. The staff and parents were extremely open and welcoming to my family. It is like a family. Parents and teachers alike all pitch in daily to make sure every child has an amazing day. The love for the children can be felt as soon as you walk in the classrooms. I am so thankful my children have teachers around them that care about them as much as I do!" Sandy Dombroski, parent of Thomas (10), Price (6), and Josh (2)

"I was initially skeptical about the benefit of sending our first daughter to 'school' at the early age of two. My wife convinced me, however, and now we will definitely be sharing those benefits with our second daughter as well! The day school isn't a place where someone just watches your child(ren) for several hours. It's a place where the teachers develop budding personalities, engage the students in learning, and truly love them like their own. We continue to be impressed with McKenzie's intellectual and social-emotional developments, which would not have been possible without her exposure to the wonderful day school teachers and her classmate friends." Hunter and Michelle Gray, parents of McKenzie (6), Brinleigh (3), and Hadley (1)



Share this page: About St. James Day School

St. James Day School Staff

Ansley Trask
St. James Day School Director
Stephanie Burney
Toddlers & 2's Class Teacher
Ms. Mitzi Daughtry
Four's Class Teacher
Ms. Courtney Easley
Twos' Class Teacher
Ms. Jordan Hooper
Toddler's Class
Ms. J.K. Thomas
Twos' Class Teacher
Mrs. Patti Whitley
2's Class Teacher
Mrs. Shannon Leas
Three's Class Teacher
Mrs. Jan Bridgers
Two's Class Teacher
Ms. Marsha Bonner
Yoga Instructor
Shannon Lockamy
Three's Class Teacher
Ms. Kristie Brown
Four's Class Teacher
Mrs. Allen Lee
Toddler Class Teacher
Mrs. Carla Schiffel
Toddler Class Teacher
Mrs. Sara Anlyan
Three's Class Teacher
Ms. Anne Norris
Toddler Class Teacher
Ashley Gibson
Toddler Class Teacher
Elizabeth Murchison
Three's Class Teacher
Gail Fisher
Toddler Class Teacher
Sue Williams
Twos' Class Teacher

Ansley Trask

St. James Day School Director

Stephanie Burney

Toddlers & 2's Class Teacher

Ms. Burney received her Bachelors of Arts in Education from St. Lawrence University. She minored in French Literature and Developmental Psychology.

What drew you to teaching? "It's the only job where you get paid to play. And because children sparkle."

Favorite Snack: "Oreo Cookies"

Hidden Talent: "I can do the splits."

Ms. Mitzi Daughtry

Four's Class Teacher

Ms. Daughtry has her Bachelors of Arts in Early Childhood Education, Pre-K through 5th Grade.

What drew you to teaching? "I had two things. I have a few family members who were teachers and wonderful role models to me. The second reason is when I was in 4th grade I struggled in math. My teacher helped me so much. I have never forgotten her and what she did for me. from then on, I wanted to be a teacher and help children the way she helped me.

Favorite Snack: "Trail Mix"

Hidden Talent: "Running"

Ms. Courtney Easley

Twos' Class Teacher

Ms. Easley received her Bachelors of Arts from College of Charleston and her Teaching Certificate from Meredith College and UNCW.

What drew you to teaching? "My love of children! It's so rewarding to see how much each child learns and grows in such a short amount of time that you spend with them in the classroom."

Favorite Snack: "Pretzel Chips"

Hidden Talent: "Painting"

Ms. Jordan Hooper

Toddler's Class

Ms. Hooper received her degree in Communications and Non-Profit Studies at NC State University and her Masters in Elementary Education from UNC Charlotte.

What drew you to teaching? "My love of children led me to teaching. I taught first grade before I had my two boys. The balance of stay at home momming and teaching the toddlers two days a week is perfect!"

Favorite Snacks: "Gum, Skittles, Snickers."

Hidden Talent: "Decluttering and Organizing"

Ms. J.K. Thomas

Twos' Class Teacher

Ms. Thomas attended North Carolina State University.

What drew you to teaching? "I love watching children have fun while learning how to play interactively. I believe that preschool is such an important first step of their journey in education! I enjoy the creative aspects of teaching that help children learn and develop crucial life skills. For me, there is no greater reward than seeing a child accomplish a task, knowing that I played a small role in guiding them towards reaching that goal!"

Favorite Snacks: "Gummy Bears, Pretzels, Diet Coke"

Hidden Talent: "Hmm... this talent is so well-hidden that I don't even know where to find it!"

Mrs. Patti Whitley

2's Class Teacher

Ms. Whitley received her degree from UNC-Chapel Hill.

What drew you to teaching? "Originally, I had planned to obtain a "Masters in the Art of Teaching" once my children were middle school age but the love of preschoolers from my subbing days convinced me to become a preschool teacher. At the earliest age, children are so eager to learn and I love that enthusiasm along with the extra special hugs and thumb kisses."

Favorite Stack: "Popcorn"

Hidden Talent: "Checkers Champion! (among family and friends)"

Mrs. Shannon Leas

Three's Class Teacher

Mrs. Leas attended Appalachian State University and studied Culinary Arts at Ashville.

What drew you to teaching? I am able to create, play, laugh, smile, sing silly songs, jump, and make fun crafts everyday with precious little children. Teaching is a work of the heart!

Favorite Snack: Crackers and Cheese

Hidden Talent: I can Skurf

Mrs. Jan Bridgers

Two's Class Teacher

Ms. Bridgers received her degree in Art from East Carolina University. Her love of kids drew her to teaching.

Favorite Snack: Popcorn

Hidden Talent: Ping Pong

Ms. Marsha Bonner

Yoga Instructor

Ms. Bonner recieved her B.A. in Psychology from UNC Chapel Hill and her Masters in Counseling from Campbell University. She was drawn to teaching by her own preschool age children. They are her inspiration.

Favorite Snack: Goldfish

Hidden Talent: I can still slalom.

Shannon Lockamy

Three's Class Teacher

Ms. Lockamy received her Associates and Bachelors Degrees from Peace College.

What drew you to teaching?

"I had an early start in teaching by teaching dance at 16. I have always been drawn to teaching the children. I worked in Wake County Public Schools before moving to the Wilmington, NC area. I enjoy watching the children grow throughout the years.

Favorite Snack: Fruit (except strawberries)

Hidden Talent: "I play the bagpipes and I clog dance."

Ms. Kristie Brown

Four's Class Teacher

Ms. Brown has a BA in Education, a BA in Psychology, and a MA in Counseling Psychology.

What drew you to teaching? Preschool offers the opportunity for children to explore and learn so many different things. I feel honored to have the opportunity to facilitate learning activities through play. I am constantly amazed how much their little minds can retain.
Fun fact: My family and I love Disney World. We go several times a year. My favorite park is Epcot and my favorite Disney event is the Food and Wine Festival.

Mrs. Allen Lee

Toddler Class Teacher

After graduating from New Hanover High School, I studied at NCSU and have a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Design.

I stopped working in 2009 to be home with my son when my husband went to seminary. After two more children and eight years passed, I was ready to transition back into work. I love being with children and the chance to work at our church preschool was the perfect opportunity to start working part-time hours while still being available for my own children.
Fun fact- I grew up in Wilmington and was a student at the Day School years ago!

Mrs. Carla Schiffel

Toddler Class Teacher

I graduated from UNC-Greensboro with a BS in Nursing in 1981. I have worked in many fields of Nursing: NICU at Pitt Memorial Hospital in Greenville, NC; Public Health in Orange County and New Hanover County, and on the Surgical/Medical floor at Cape Fear Memorial Hospital. For many years I taught Childbirth classes in Wilmington.

I love children!! I volunteered as a Sunday school teacher at St Andrews on the Sound and at St Paul’s Episcopal for ages K-1, 4th grade and High School over a period of 12 years.
FUN FACT: I taught Ms. Lee Sunday School when she was in 4th Grade, and she is as precious now, as she was then.
Another fun fact is that I was in a small Gospel Band at Wrightsville United Methodist Church for several years as the lead singer. (The competition was very little, as I was the only taker!!).
I was led to this position after bringing my sweet grandchildren, Walker and Rinn Echols, to SJDS for the past 4 years. I have witnessed first hand the love shared by each staff member, and am excited to be a part of this AWESOME team of God-loving, children-loving people.

Mrs. Sara Anlyan

Three's Class Teacher

Mrs. Anlyan graduated from Cape Fear Academy in 2004. I graduated from CFCC with an associate's degree in criminal justice in 2008.


Why teaching? I enjoy being with children and watching them explore the world around them. It is fulfilling to be part of a nurturing community like SJDS.

FUN FACT: I am mother to three girls and made some of my best friends, still to this day, while at SJDS over 30 years ago!

Ms. Anne Norris

Toddler Class Teacher

Ashley Gibson

Toddler Class Teacher

About me: I graduated from NC State in 2008 with a degree in communication and furthered my education at Cabarrus College of Health Sciences in Occupational Therapy, I moved to Wilmington nine years ago and have an 8-year-old son and a 5-year-old daughter.


Why teaching? The opportunity to teach at SJDS is one I am very excited to have. I love being with the toddler-aged children since mine are no longer in preschool. I look forward to watching the kids grow during the school year.

Favorite snack/treat: peanut M&Ms

Fun fact about you: I love to water and snow ski.

Elizabeth Murchison

Three's Class Teacher

Teaching? First off, I love children! I have 3 children myself and loved being around them when they were in preschool, watching them grow up and interact with other kids. I realized that I could help share that same passion for other young children.

Favorite snack/treat: Iced Coffee (from pretty much anywhere but home)
Fun fact: I love to play board games, especially with my children. Our favorite game right now is Rummikub!


Gail Fisher

Toddler Class Teacher

Why teaching? First of all, I LOVE CHILDREN! This age is so important. They are like little sponges, just absorbing everything. There is so much gratification watching them grow, knowing I might have an impact on that.


Fun fact: Just moved here February 2022 from Connecticut. So happy to be in the Wilmington community, especially being part of St. James School.

Favorite snack. Doritos

Sue Williams

Twos' Class Teacher

Day School News

SJDS Summer Camps 2023

We are so honored and humbled by the level of interest i...

Read More »

A Letter from Ms. Ansley Trask

I am incredibly grateful for the warm welcome I have rec...

Read More »

St. James Day School About St. James Day School Day School Calendar REGISTRATION SJDS Staff Tuition

St. James Parish
25 S. Third Street
Wilmington, NC 28401

Phone: 910.763.1628

CHURCH OFFICE HOURS
8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Thursday;
8:30 am to 1:30 pm on Friday.

Disclaimer


ST. JAMES PARISH

St. James Mission Statement: To welcome all to grow in love of God and neighbor.

St. James Vision Statement: To build community through ministries that strengthen our faith.

  • 8:00 AM: Worship at St. James Parish- Holy Eucharist Rite I
  • 9:00 AM: Worship at St. James Parish- Holy Eucharist Rite II & Online Worship
  • 10:10 AM: Faith Formation & Sunday School Hour
  • 11:15 AM: Worship at St. James Parish- Holy Eucharist Rite II & Online Worship

Click here for service descriptions and more info

Click here to request room/space use at St. James


© 2023 St. James Episcopal Church. All Rights Reserved

Affiliates

St. James Day School

St. James Parish Foundation

The Help Hub


St. James Episcopal Church is a member parish in the Diocese of Eastern North Carolina. We welcome everyone who wishes to attend our services and events.


Privacy Policy

  View Entire Post

Service Times


St. James Parish

Welcome Sunday

  • 8:00 AM: Worship at St. James Parish- Holy Eucharist Rite I
  • 9:00 AM: Worship at St. James Parish- Holy Eucharist Rite II & Online Worship
  • 10:10 AM: Faith Formation & Sunday School Hour
  • 11:15 AM: Worship at St. James Parish- Holy Eucharist Rite II & Online Worship

Click here for service descriptions and more info

Location

St. James Parish
25 S. 3rd Street
Wilmington, NC 28401

Contact Us
910.763.1628

Newsletter Signup

Welcome Children Service Times Location Membership

We extend a sincere welcome to you and we hope you will come and find your place at St. James. We have long been an active, working church with parishioners who play a vital role in parish ministries and community life. The range of St. James' ministries is as broad as the interests of its members.

Christian Formation for children endeavors to support and supplement the family's efforts to raise children as followers of Christ. Children's Formation includes Sunday classes as well as seasonal festivals and intergenerational events. Preschool ages 2 to 5 years, and grades 1 through 5 use a lectionary-based curriculum enhanced with art and music. Middle school classes include confirmation preparation and current event issues. Senior high classes engage in weekly Bible study from a young person's perspective.

Learn More

Sunday Services

On Sunday, we will be offering the following services:

  • 8:00 AM: Worship at St. James Parish- Holy Eucharist Rite I
  • 9:00 AM: Worship at St. James Parish- Holy Eucharist Rite II
  • 10:10 AM: Faith Formation & Sunday School Hour
  • 11:15 AM: Worship at St. James Parish- Holy Eucharist Rite II

Wednesday Eucharist

Holy Eucharist Rite II - 12:10 p.m.

Click here for service descriptions and more info

St. James Parish occupies a full city block in downtown Wilmington, surrounded by Market St., 3rd Street, Dock Street, and 4th Street. Parking is available through the week and on Sundays on Market, 3rd, Dock and 4th Streets, adjacent to the church. Although the street parking is free, please note that on weekdays, parking on Market, 3rd and 4th Streets (other than the block of 4th Street behind the church property) is restricted to 2 hours, after which parking fines may be imposed by the City of Wilmington.

Maps & Directions

Membership at St. James, as with any other Episcopal parish, is governed by Canonical requirements of the Episcopal Church. It begins with the Sacrament of Holy Baptism, it continues with confirmation or reception by a bishop of the Episcopal Church, and it is maintained through a continuing commitment to the mission and ministries of the local parish.

Join St. James
Make a Donation Stewardship St. James Foundation Realm

Thank you for supporting the mission and ministry of St. James Parish! For more information see our give page. To give a gift now, click the button below. To pledge, please login to Realm and follow the instructions in this video. Let us move Forward Together with Joy, Gratitude, and Generosity!


Give Now
On behalf of the wardens and vestry of St. James Parish, we want to thank you for being a part of the Community of St. James. The contributions and the faithful ministries of all who served in various capacities across our parish have helped this parish to fulfill the mission and ministry to which we are called. Let us move Forward Together with Joy, Gratitude, and Generosity!
Make a Pledge

The St. James Parish Foundation was established in 2003 with the mission of supporting the needs of St. James Parish’s wonderful and historic church campus in perpetuity. The Foundation supports its mission by providing financial contributions to the Parish through targeted distributions for capital or specific campaign-related needs. Those contributions are through the assets that have been so generously donated to St. James Parish over the years by its’ congregation. You can easily donate online! Donate Online Here


Learn more about the St. James Foundation

Access your giving history and discover your St. James Parish community. Visit our Realm Help Page or contact our financial administrator, Maria Hollopeter, if you have any questions.

Access Realm