"Though the teachers present us with a challenging curriculum, they are also kind, funny, and supportive of us."

Throughout my years at Saint Bartholomew, I have witnessed a plethora of many wonderful experiences. I’ve made many lifelong friendships, I’ve developed a deeper connection to God, and most importantly, I’ve enjoyed every step of the way. St. Bartholomew is like a second family to me, a second home. St. Bartholomew has given me many opportunities to strengthen myself academically, socially, and spiritually, and they have given my lifelong advice that will always stick with me through high school and beyond.

Though the teachers present us with a challenging curriculum, they are also kind, funny, and supportive of us.

The whole 8th Grade has become my second family, and I am privileged to be blessed with such wonderful friends.

Spiritually, St. Bartholomew has impressed upon me the importance of Catholic virtues, virtues that I will continue to live by for the rest of my life.

Nicholas J.
8th Grade Student

"To me, St. Bartholomew School means family. It represents a place to learn and grow, a place to make new friends and have new experiences."

I feel that in all my time here at St. Bartholomew School, no matter which teacher I had, every single one made it her top priority that I hand in my best work. I am always being pushed out of my comfort zone.

St. Bartholomew School has helped me grow as a person in so many ways. Specifically, it has helped me reach my academic potential. One of the best examples I can give is my writing. When I transferred to St. Bartholomew, I had no idea how to write a good essay or story, but with the help of my teachers over the years, I have had the opportunity to explore and write my own stories at home as a hobby. I have also improved tremendously in math, social studies, science, and all sorts of other subjects including the arts, and it all thanks to St. Bartholomew that I have the amazing opportunity to do so.

So, what does St. Bartholomew School mean to me? Is it just a building? A place to go just so that you can get your school years over with? No, I think it means so much more than that. To me, St. Bartholomew School means family. It represents a place to learn and grow, a place to make new friends and have new experiences. St. Bartholomew School has made the past four years some of the most fun and unforgettable times of my life, and while I may be sad to leave, I am glad that I came and excited for what is to come.

Lilliel S.
8th Grade Student

"We learn to stand up for what is right and become future leaders of the world."

Every school gives students an education, but here at St. Bartholomew, we don’t only get a great education, but we also learn to stand up for what is right and become future leaders of the world.

Brittney B.
8th Grade Student

"I am learning new things and how to be a leader."

St. Bartholomew School is really preparing me for high school because I am learning new things and how to be a leader.

After coming to this school, I learned what it meant to be thankful to God. I am much more appreciative and thankful to God because I realize that everything I have wouldn’t be possible without my faith.

Originally I went to this school only because my parents asked me to. But now I realize I made an amazing choice in attending this school.

Vivianna M.
8th Grade Student

"When I get up in the morning I am very happy to come to school because I feel a sense of comfort and love when I come here."

When I get up in the morning I am very happy to come to school because I feel a sense of comfort and love when I come here.

I was very timid and shy when I started out in school. I started to join clubs and it broke me out of my shell. If you told the younger me that I would be singing in front of hundreds of people or read at church about St. Bartholomew, I would never believe you. I feel that St. Bartholomew has brought me closer to God.

St. Bartholomew makes me feel comfortable and safe. I am going to miss it so much next year, but I will never forget this school.

Annaiz M.
8th Grade Student

"I have been taught to be responsible; that I should think about the possible outcomes of my choices before making them."

My very first appearance at St. Bartholomew School was in 4th grade. I came for student for a day to see if I would eventually want to attend this school. After that school day ended, I could not wait to come back and kept asking when I would.

St. Bartholomew School really helps you prepare for high school. Teachers are there to guide you to what is right so you can improve yourself as a student and go into high school prepared. I definitely feel that I have grown as a student by being at Saint Bartholomew School. I have been taught to be responsible; that I should think about the possible outcomes of my choices before making them. Learning that has not only advanced me as a student, but as a person.

Kaila M.
8th Grade Student

"Saint Bartholomew offers kind, caring, and very intelligent teachers"

I have been attending St. Bartholomew School since Pre-Kindergarten, have grown and learned through the years, and have finally reached eighth grade. Looking back, I can really see what opportunities I have been offered, and how I became who I am. Saint Bartholomew offers kind, caring, and very intelligent teachers who are very skilled and educated in their academic field. After getting to know them, you can place your trust in them not only as a teacher, but as a friend and someone to talk to.

All in all, over the years my heart has just gotten attached to Saint Bartholomew. Its people and atmosphere make me feel so comfortable and happy. For me, I think I can proudly say that Saint Bartholomew School is my second home.

Mia D.
8th Grade Student

"We could not be more pleased with St. Bartholomew School and highly recommend it to any family looking for an exceptional school for their children."

“How was school today? Great!” is the typical conversation in the car when I pick up my two granddaughters from St. Bartholomew’s School. The girls are so happy in “their” school. And so are we as parents and grandparents.

As a public school teacher for 38 years I can verify that the academic education St. Bart’s offers is commensurate with that of the public school. But St. Bartholomew’s offers something more. The total atmosphere of caring is the hallmark of the school – from the eighth grade buddies program to the hugs friends give as they leave the parking lot at the end of the day. Middle school boys and girls pump fists with their science teacher and little ones hug their teachers’ knees goodbye. The student body rallied twice to support a fellow student with cancer get video connected to the classroom. And the examples are endless. All in the spirit of the school’s mission: to love, educate, and inspire children to live the teachings of Jesus Christ.

We could not be more pleased with St. Bartholomew School and highly recommend it to any family looking for an exceptional school for their children.

Patty Whipkey
Grandmother, library volunteer

"It was the best education I could have hoped for and I am proud to be a part of providing that education to a new generation of students."

St. Bartholomew School is where I developed the foundation that makes me the professional I am today. From a very young age, I always felt that teachers and administration in this school made it clear that there was more to me than my academic ability. There is an emphasis here on helping students find their strengths and building a community that celebrates differences. As a student here, I was given the skills and the opportunities to develop as a leader and an active participant in my education and my faith. My teachers (many of whom still teach here) encouraged me to take risks and challenge myself academically while creating a safe space to make mistakes and grow from them. It was in this school that I learned how to put my faith into action through service and what it means to be a member of the Catholic Church. Now as a staff member, I love working with students to find that passion for learning and trust in themselves to take risks. St. Bart’s helps students learn and grow academically, spiritually, emotionally, and socially. It was the best education I could have hoped for and I am proud to be a part of providing that education to a new generation of students.

Mrs. Katy McAndrew

"St. Bartholomew's School is more than just an institution for learning."

St. Bartholomew's School is more than just an institution for learning. My son is in his fourth year and we couldn't be happier. After he completed kindergarten locally, I was on a mission to find the best fit for him. I went on many school tours, public and private. I wanted a school that would challenge him academically but also nurture the whole person. I was impressed the very first day I walked in the building with the tour guides. The soon to be graduating eighth graders spoke with such confidence about their school. My son has now gained that same confidence he needs to speak in front of people by attending weekly masses with the student body each week.

I am grateful for the opportunities he has been given by such loving and warm staff as he grows up being a well-rounded student with wonderful friends.

The Hartong Family

"Thank you for all you do at St. Bart’s that makes it possible for our son to stand out in such a positive manner. You should know 'it shows'!"

Letter to Mrs. Ann Wierzbicki, Principal –

We recently visited Washington D.C. for a graduation and took the opportunity to stay the weekend and enjoy the city. Our hotel arranged a private tour of D.C. with a local historian that was truly remarkable. The historian guided us through each of the landmarks giving facts only a historian could drill down to. All the while, as the historian told of the history surrounding the site, he would engage our third grade son Frank by asking him questions about our Presidents, our history, and about America in general. After some time and with Frank correctly responding to almost every question, the historian looked over at us and asked, “Does your son attend a private school?” We proudly responded, “Yes – a Catholic school – St. Bartholomew in New Jersey.” To this he replied, “It shows.”

Just thought it was worth mentioning to you so you could be proud of the difference Father Tom, you, and your staff are making with the students both academically and by way of respect and manners.

It is by the manner in which you devote your energy to promoting academic excellence whether through Accreditation, advancement in technology, or any of the other successfully instituted programs, that allows our students to excel.

Thank you for all you do at St. Bart’s that makes it possible for our son to stand out in such a positive manner. You should know “it shows”!

Have a wonderful summer,
Maryann and Frank Russo

"St. Bartholomew should be the standard for all Catholic Elementary Schools."

Our son Alex just graduated 8th Grade and from the beginning we knew that we made the right choice for him to attend St. Bartholomew School. When Our Lady of Lourdes School in Milltown closed its doors, so many families and children were affected and emotionally devastated. We were fortunate that St. Bartholomew School welcomed all the families. During the initial school tour, St. Bartholomew students provided us the tour. These students were very knowledgeable and exhibited confidence in themselves as they articulated school activities. It was clear to us that they were proud of their school. We knew immediately that St. Bart’s was the one and only choice for Alex.

As Alex progressed through his years in St. Bart’s we noticed the changes in Alex, he became more open and personable. More noticeable were the improvements in his academic Reading Skills, Math, Vocabulary, Science and his Social Skills. The Science Fair soon became of our favorites in school. The students showcased their projects to the school community. This was an excellent exercise for the students to articulate their projects to their families and friends thus developing their social skills. Alex’s participation in the Drama Club was pivotal for Alex. The presentation of “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown” and “Seussical” were a wonderful experiences for Alex. He blossomed musically and the experienced developed his self-esteem. The subject of Music, as everyone in school knows, will always be dear in Alex’s heart. We are very Thankful to the Administration and Staff that guided him through his years at St. Bartholomew School. The faculty has done a phenomenal job and we know you will continue to do so!!!!

Thank You St. Bartholomew, Alex graduated with that confidence we saw in the children when we took that 1st tour. St. Bartholomew should be the standard for all Catholic Elementary Schools.

– Ed and Liz Domingo

"Giving my daughter the many things she will need to succeed later in life"

For seven years St. Bartholomew School has been giving my daughter the many things she will need to succeed later in life: the academic foundation which is built upon year after year, morals and values from a Catholic education, and a community of people who are a second family to us. St. Bartholomew's teachers nurture her mind and spirit, while also allowing her to be herself. I have never once regretted my decision to send her here.

— Michele Monteleone

"St. Bartholomew is the right and best choice for our family"

As educators and parents, it is our goal for our children to attend a school where they can grow both academically and spiritually in a small and caring community. St. Bartholomew is the right and best choice for our family. We travel from outside of East Brunswick to attend St. Bart's. Our son has been attending St. Bart's since the 1st grade and will be attending the fourth grade in fall of 2012. In the past three years he has had the experience of being in small classes with warm and caring teachers that treat the students as if they are their own sons and daughters. We have always been well informed about the expectations, assignments, and deadlines via the teacher pages. The teachers respond via email when and if necessary. Our son is excited to get involved in many more activities offered as he moves up and is encouraged and inspired by older students. St. Bartholomew School is teaching our son to be a responsible Catholic with strong values. Soon our younger son will follow in his footsteps and is excited to attend St. Bart's.

– Parents of Jordan, 4th grade

"We have loved every teacher that she has had"

When it was time to send my eldest to kindergarten, I was torn, public school or St. Bart’s. My nephew went there all through elementary school, so I asked his opinion. His reply was, “Are you kidding? Those were the best years of my life!” Without hesitation, I sent my daughter there.

I have never for a minute regretted my decision. We have loved every teacher that she has had. They are very dedicated and truly care about the children. The buddy program for the first and eighth graders is a wonderful program. I think the public schools are missing out by not having it in their schools. All the children are kind to each other and the older children know the younger ones by name. It is like being part of a family. We have enjoyed every minute there.

– Maryellen Harduby

"Her future is bright because of the foundation that began at St. Barts."

St. Bartholomew School is not just a place, but a state of mind. Within a safe and nurturing environment, we have watched our daughter mature from a tentative Pre-K student to a confident and capable seventh grader. St. Bartholomew School has allowed her to grow academically, spiritually and socially. Her future is bright because of the foundation that began at St. Barts.

– The Szallai Family

"Strong academically"

St. Bart’s offers our daughter a good and safe learning environment. It was very important to us that the school was strong academically. St. Bart’s test scores indicated just that. Another important aspect of the school is the spiritual learning which gives our daughter strong lifetime values.

– Parents of Sofia, 3rd Grade

"A Catholic education for our children is not just a privilege, it’s a necessity"

The more people try to take God out of this world, the more important it becomes to keep God in it. A Catholic education for our children is not just a privilege, it’s a necessity.

– Ken and Sonia Atzingen

"It is a true family here"

I love that the “big kids” say “hello” and are very caring to the younger grades. My first grade daughter rattles off names of her friends in the upper grades. It is a true family here. My husband, who went to public school claims “you’d never see that in a public school!”

– Mary Kruh

"St. Bart’s has accomplished and exceeded our expectations"

We wanted to introduce our child to an education based on discipline, religious and moral values. St. Bart’s has accomplished and exceeded our expectations. Keep it up!

– Parents of Matthew Diaz, 1st Grade

"Strong focus on academic and religious core values"

One of the earliest and yet crucially important decisions that all parents face relates to the elementary and religious education of their children. In making this decision we recognized that the choices we made at this stage will likely have long term and far reaching impacts on our child’s religious and academic development. We chose St. Bartholomew School because of its strong focus on academic and religious core values. In addition, we’ve found that the St. Bartholomew teaching staff and administration take a personal interest in the educational, social and religious development of the students. Finally, the St. Bartholomew School provides a safe environment where our child can associate with children and families that share our values.

- George and Jen Fuchs

"My son loves to go to school every day"

My son has attended St. Bart’s for two years and our experience has been wonderful. Teachers are caring and experienced, and my son loves to go to school every day. He feels safe, excited and loved – what else could we ask for from the school?!

- Mom of a second grader

"Saint Bartholomew’s has never ceased to exceed my expectations. I expect a lot."

I chose Saint Bartholomew School seven years ago, because I wanted my children to have a catholic school education, period. Saint Bartholomew’s has never ceased to exceed my expectations. I expect a lot. Great education and teachers, strong sense of catholic values and most importantly the sacred feeling of a close, loving community. We are all a family here at Saint Bartholomew School.

- Anonymous

"A loving and nurturing environment"

We send our children to Catholic Schools because of the strong catholic values. We also love the strong school family that catholic schools seem to have. It is a home away from home and we want our children to be in a loving and nurturing environment even when they are away from their immediate home. Children seem to grow up so quickly these days and we think catholic schools keep our children more safe and grounded in their warm surroundings.

- Gert and John Melnick, Parents of Christan and Stephen Melnick and Matthew Melnik, Class of 2005

"Excellence both academically and spiritually"

St. Bartholomew School is a place where children’s education foundations are formed. They learn to strive to exceed for excellence both academically and spiritually. The faculty provides loving guidance. It’s a place where the children feel welcomed and part of an extended family.

-Santina D’Esposito – mother of three students

"A happy and positive foundation for learning"

My daughters’ preschool experiences at St. Bartholomew has given them a happy and positive foundation for learning.

-Samson Family

"I thank our Lord for this special, special place and I thank all of you for making it so"

First let me thank you so much for your weekly message in the communication envelope. I love reading and learning as much as I can about my faith. My wife, Barbara and I have had three children graduate St. Bart’s and our fourth is Katie in 5th grade. St. Bart’s is a wonderful, loving, caring school and parish. It is our home. We are so pleased with the education, especially religious that all our children have received. So many of the teachers are our friends and so many families have influenced our lives. As Monsignor Michael used to say “there is no plastic on the furniture here, everyone is invited to use and enjoy all we have to offer”. I thank our Lord for this special, special place and I thank all of you for making it so.

-With love and appreciation, Jeff and Barbara Cavico