Why Choose ISJ Academy?
Welcome to Immanuel St. James Academy (ISJ Academy), where education meets faith in a nurturing, Christ-centered environment. Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, ISJ Academy has been shaping students and families for life and eternity since 1859. With a commitment to academic excellence and spiritual growth, we provide a comprehensive educational experience for students from early childhood through 8th grade.

Early Childhood Programs
Our Early Childhood Center is designed to provide a loving and engaging environment for young learners. We offer a range of programs tailored to meet the unique needs of each age group:
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2s Room: Our two-year-old program introduces little ones to a structured learning environment, focusing on social skills, play-based learning, and foundational faith development.
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Preschool: Our preschool program builds on early childhood skills, emphasizing literacy, numeracy, and faith-based learning in a fun and interactive way.
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Before and After Care: For working families, we offer convenient before and after-school care services, ensuring your child is safe and engaged outside regular school hours.
Elementary and Middle School Programs
From kindergarten through 6th grade, our curriculum integrates Biblical principles into all subjects, ensuring that students grow academically while developing a strong spiritual foundation. Through daily Bible teachings, weekly chapel services, and prayer, we instill Christ-centered values that guide students in their journey of faith.
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Our mission is simple yet profound: to develop Christ-centered students and families for life and eternity. This eternal perspective inspires our students to live with purpose, integrity, and compassion, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world.

​​Academic Excellence Rooted in Faith
ISJ Academy combines rigorous academics with spiritual growth to create a holistic learning experience. Our small class sizes allow for personalized attention from experienced and caring teachers who are passionate about nurturing each student's potential. Key features of our academic program include:
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High academic standards that prepare students for high school and beyond.
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Technology integration to enhance learning in the classroom.
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Christ-centered character development that fosters integrity, kindness, and empathy.
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A focus on critical thinking skills and problem-solving through a Biblical worldview.
A Safe and Nurturing Environment
We understand the importance of providing a safe space where children can thrive. Our campus is located in the Creston neighborhood of Grand Rapids, offering a secure environment where students feel loved, valued, and supported. At ISJ Academy, every child is part of a family atmosphere that prioritizes their emotional and spiritual well-being.


Affordable Christian Education
We believe that every family should have access to quality Christian education. ISJ Academy offers affordable tuition rates and a tuition assistance program to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent families from joining our community. This commitment reflects our dedication to inclusivity and accessibility.
Experienced Faculty Dedicated to Your Child's Success
Our teachers are more than educators—they are disciple-makers who mentor students in their faith journey while fostering academic growth. With decades of combined experience and a passion for sharing the love of Jesus Christ, our faculty creates an inspiring learning environment where students flourish.
A Legacy of Faith-Based Education
As one of the oldest Christian schools in Grand Rapids, ISJ Academy has a rich history rooted in faith and service. For over 160 years, we have been equipping students with the tools they need to succeed academically while nurturing their relationship with God.
Convenient Location
Located just minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, major highways, and public transportation, ISJ Academy is easily accessible for families throughout the area. Our central location makes it convenient for parents seeking high-quality Christian education close to home.
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​​Our Biblical Foundation
At ISJ Academy, we are guided by the wisdom of Scripture in all that we do. Our mission and values are deeply rooted in biblical principles, particularly embodied in Proverbs 22:6:
"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."
This verse encapsulates the heart of our educational philosophy and underscores the importance of everything we offer at ISJ Academy:
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Early Childhood Programs: We begin nurturing faith and values from the earliest years, laying a foundation that will last a lifetime.
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Christ-Centered Education: By integrating biblical principles into all subjects, we train children in the ways of the Lord throughout their educational journey.
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Academic Excellence: We believe that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7), which is why we combine rigorous academics with spiritual growth.
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Experienced Faculty: Our teachers are committed to increasing in wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 1:5), guiding students not just in academics, but in their faith journey.
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Safe and Nurturing Environment: We provide a loving atmosphere where children can grow in the knowledge and love of God.
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Affordable Christian Education: We strive to make this invaluable training accessible to all families, regardless of financial circumstances.
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At ISJ Academy, we're not just preparing students for academic success or even for their future careers. We're training up children in the way they should go, equipping them with a Christ-centered worldview and a strong spiritual foundation that will guide them throughout their lives.
By choosing ISJ Academy, you're investing in your child's eternal future, partnering with us to fulfill the biblical mandate of raising up the next generation in the ways of the Lord. From our Early Childhood Center to our 6th-grade program, every aspect of our school is designed to nurture your child's faith, character, and academic abilities, preparing them for a life of purpose and service to God.
Join the ISJ Community Today
Choosing ISJ Academy means choosing an education that prioritizes both academic excellence and spiritual growth. Whether you’re looking for early childhood programs or middle school curriculum, ISJ Academy is the place where your child can thrive academically while growing closer to Christ.
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Contact us today to learn more about enrollment or schedule a visit! Together, let’s build a strong foundation for your child’s future—one rooted in faith, knowledge, and love.