Administration

Fr. Chad Wilhelm • Pastor • 701-252-0119 • chad.wilhelm@fargodiocese.org

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

It is with great joy and heartfelt gratitude that I extend a warm welcome to you as current and potential members of our beloved Catholic school, St. John's Academy. For those who are already part of our community, you know how blessed we are to have such a vibrant and faith-filled environment. For those considering joining us, I invite you to explore the academic and spiritual benefits that make St. John's Academy a truly exceptional place.

Our school is not merely a place of learning but a nurturing environment where faith, knowledge, and values come together harmoniously. We are committed to fostering the spiritual, academic, and personal growth of each student. Our mission is to provide a holistic education that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit, grounded firmly in the teachings of Christ.

We encourage you to engage actively in our school life, participate in our events, and collaborate with us in supporting your child’s journey. Together, we will strive to create a space where every student feels valued, loved, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Let us pray for guidance, strength, and wisdom as we work together in partnership. May our efforts be blessed with success and joy, and may our school community continue to flourish in faith and unity.

Once again, welcome to our family. I look forward to getting to know you and your children better throughout this exciting school year.

In Christ's Peace, Very Rev. Fr. Chad Wilhelm

Jeff Trumbauer • Principal • 701-252-3397 • jeff.trumbauer@k12.nd.us

Greetings St. John's Academy Families and Friends!

As principal of St. John's Academy, I have the great pleasure of working side-by-side with an impressive group of teachers and staff members who are focused on providing a quality education that is rooted in faith to the students who attend our school. The Academy's staff values their purpose as Catholic school educators and strive to make an impact on their students that will last a lifetime.

Equally rewarding has been the opportunity to witness the impact that an education at St. John's Academy has on our students. Day by day, I can see the growth and maturity as they develop academically and grow in virtue. In partnership with our families, the students of St. John's Academy move on to future endeavors fully prepared to be successful students and servant leaders.

As a school community we rejoice in the opportunities provided to celebrate and share our faith in Christ as we strengthen and encourage each other to carry out the mission of the Gospel. It is an amazing blessing to be at St. John's Academy and to be part of a team that is committed to ensuring that the experience is imactful for each of our students.

Marlys Fix • Vice Principal & Technology Director • 701-252-3397 • marlys.fix@k12.nd.us

I am truly honored to be the Vice Principal and Technology Director at St. John’s Academy. I joined the St. John’s Academy family many years ago as a second grade teacher. I absolutely LOVED every year in second grade and am thankful I had the privilege to work with so many young children. Another area I am VERY passionate about is technology. Currently, I have the opportunity to serve in a position which allows me to work with children, focus on technology, and share my faith on a daily basis, while being surrounded by great co-workers. How great is that?!?! I am excited to share my vision that technology is essential in guiding our students toward educational excellence. I look forward to working with all students, staff, parents and community to make St. John’s Academy the best it can be. Thank you for visiting our website.

Kristen Lynch • Dean of Students (Band/Choir Director)• 701-252-3397 • kristen.lynch@k12.nd.us

Hello! I'm Kristen Lynch, and I'm honored to serve as the Dean of Students and Middle School Band and Choir Director here at St. John’s Academy.

I’ve worked directly in education as a K-6 music teacher and beginning band director in Snohomish, WA and as a PreK-12 music specialist in my hometown rural school in Montpelier, ND. I served St. James Basilica as the Music and Liturgy Coordinator for six years, during which time I had the privilege of working with SJA students as I prepared them to lead music for school Masses. I have been the Basilica Choir Director since 2015 and was the Joyful Noise Children’s Church Choir Director from 2015-2020. My career in working with students and adults alike has reinforced my belief that education goes beyond the classroom; it's about building relationships, encouraging growth, and developing the whole person so everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to thrive.

In my role as Dean of Students, I oversee student discipline, promote positive behavior, and ensure that all students are supported in their academic and extracurricular pursuits. I am excited to work with students, parents, and teachers to help create a nurturing and motivating school atmosphere.

When I’m not at school, you can find me shuttling my kids to activities, spending time with family and friends, traveling, playing piano, reading, watching sporting events, or vegging on the couch with my husband watching our favorite shows.

I’m excited to connect with you and support your journey at St. John’s!

Fr. Littlefield • Parochial Vicar• 701-252-0119 • joseph.littlefield@fargodiocese.org

Dear Families,

As I step into the classroom this year, I am both humbled and excited to join you in the important task of educating and nurturing our children. It is a privilege to be part of their academic and spiritual journey, and I wanted to share my thoughts and intentions with you as we begin this new school year together.

My role as both a priest and a teacher is rooted in a deep commitment to fostering both intellectual growth and spiritual development. In our classroom, we will explore not only the wonders of academic subjects but also the values and teachings of our Catholic faith. My aim is to create a learning environment that is both enriching and spiritually fulfilling.

I believe that education is a collaborative effort, and your involvement and support are crucial. As we work together to guide and inspire your children, I encourage open communication and partnership. Your insights and feedback will be invaluable as we strive to support your child’s unique needs and aspirations.

Our shared goal is to nurture students who are not only knowledgeable but also compassionate and faithful. I will strive to model Christ’s love and teachings in every lesson and interaction, and I hope to inspire the same in our students.

Together, we can create a vibrant and supportive learning community where every child feels valued and encouraged.

Thank you for entrusting your child’s education and spiritual formation to us. I look forward to a wonderful year of growth and discovery.

In Christ's love and peace, Fr. Joseph Littlefield, Parochial Vicar

Kaysee Price • Business Manager• 701-252-0119 • basilica@stjamesbasilica.org