Priory’s Junior School forms young men for high school and beyond
For generations of Saint Louis Priory School alumni, the Junior School is remembered as a place where friendships were forged, habits were formed, and the rhythm of Priory life first took root. It is where boys first learned to balance challenge and support, independence and belonging, tradition and growth.
This year, that tradition entered a thoughtful new chapter with the introduction of Form A – sixth grade – an optional bridge year that complements Priory’s long-established Junior School and High School entry points of 7th and 9th grades.
While many families continue to join Priory in seventh grade, as they have for decades, Form A now offers an additional pathway for those seeking an earlier, more gradual introduction to Junior School life.
Together, Forms A, I, and II create a three-year experience designed to guide students intentionally from childhood into young adulthood - grounding them in Benedictine values while gradually increasing expectations, rigor, and independence.
Three Years That Matter
At the heart of the Junior School program is a belief that formation takes time. Rather than rushing boys toward maturity, Priory provides space for growth, reflection, and learning through experience.
“The core philosophy is one of stability,” says Director of Student Formation for Lower Forms Josh Dixon. “It allows room for trial and error while anchoring the boys in Christ. Over time, students gradually take ownership of their studies, their development, and their self-awareness.”
That intentional progression begins in sixth grade for some families, continues through seventh, and culminates in eighth – a journey designed not only to prepare students academically for high school, but also to help them understand who they are and how they live in community.
“Our curriculum is holistic,” Dixon explains. “The Junior School is integral to that. It lays the foundation for boys to thrive in the high school and beyond.”
Form A: A Bridge to Junior School Life
New this year, Form A has been carefully designed as a bridge – one that introduces boys to the expectations and rhythms of Priory while offering additional structure and support. Importantly, it is one option among several, not a replacement for the traditional seventh-grade entry.
Leading the sixth-grade program is Dr. Bob Shaw, who joined Priory in 2024 and became Form Master with the launch of Form A. With extensive experience in middle school education and curriculum design, Dr. Shaw brought a clear vision to the program’s inaugural year.
“Sixth grade at Priory is intentionally a bridge year – academically, socially, and spiritually,” he says. “Students experience a gradual increase in expectations while being supported by a close-knit faculty team that knows the boys well.”
Academically, sixth graders focus on building strong foundations in reading, writing, grammar, mathematics, science, history, and Benedictine theology. Limited use of computers ensures students develop essential academic skills, while reduced exam loads help them learn how to study effectively without becoming overwhelmed.
Beyond the classroom, Form A students benefit from features tailored to their stage of development: a slightly shorter school day, a separate physical education program, and a dedicated advisory structure designed to help them feel known, grounded, and confident.
“This gentler rhythm allows boys to form habits that prepare them for seventh grade,” Dixon notes. “They are fully connected to the Junior School – sharing lunch, commons spaces, and activities – while still having what they need to succeed at this stage.”
The presence of sixth graders has enriched the wider community as well. “They bring an infectious energy, warmth, and enthusiasm,” Dixon says. “It’s been a fantastic development for the wider life of the school.”
Growing in Confidence and Character
For Dr. Shaw, the most striking aspect of Form A is how quickly students grow.
“Often within weeks or months, you see meaningful change,” he says. “Students gain confidence, learn to manage their time, advocate for themselves, and take ownership of their learning. Just as importantly, they grow in character.”
That growth is nurtured through hands-on academics, retreats, service projects, and daily experiences that integrate faith and formation into every part of the day.
“What truly distinguishes Priory is that faith, character, and scholarship are woven into daily life,” Shaw explains. “Sixth graders aren’t just being prepared for the next grade – they’re being formed as young men.”
Most Form A students appreciate the increased independence they experience, the beauty of campus, and the friendships they are building.
“The classes, community, and campus are amazing,” says Tanner Koenigsdorf ’32. “It is without a doubt a welcoming community of teachers and students.”
Forms I & II: Stepping Into Responsibility
For many alumni – and for many current families – seventh grade remains the primary and traditional entry point into Priory. Form A offers an earlier start for some, but Form I continues to be a pivotal and powerful beginning for others.
“Seventh grade invites boys into a supportive and enduring brotherhood,” says Form Master and Student Council Moderator David Holmes ’16. “It’s where students begin to understand what it means to live and learn within a Benedictine community.”
As students move up, expectations increase. The school day grows longer, academic rigor increases, and students take on greater responsibility for managing their time, work, and commitments.
Students engage in a curriculum that integrates classics, theology, mathematics, science, and the arts, alongside athletics and co-curricular opportunities. Seminar periods focus on organization, executive functioning, and study skills, while clubs and activities allow boys to explore interests – and even create new ones.
Leadership and Brotherhood in Action
Leadership development is a hallmark of the Junior School experience, particularly through Student Council (STUCO) and Tutoria.
Junior STUCO includes representatives from sixth, seventh, and eighth grade, giving students a voice and teaching them leadership is rooted in service. From assemblies and mixers to service initiatives and school spirit events, students learn how to contribute meaningfully to their community.
Tutoria, a signature Priory program, reinforces mentorship and brotherhood through shared prayer, reflection, and athletics.
“Tutoria shaped my desire to return to Priory,” he says. “Now, as a Form Master, I see myself as another layer of mentorship by helping boys grow in confidence and character.”
The Student Experience
Ask students what stands out most about the Junior School, and a common theme emerges: community.
“My favorite part of being a student at Priory is the tight-knit community,” says eighth grader Hunter McGinnis. “It allows me to get to know older and younger students in a way that wouldn’t be possible at a larger school.”
Others highlight the balance of challenge and support. “The teachers really want you to succeed,” adds Will Sedlak ‘30. “They’re easy to connect with, and they’re always willing to help.”
For sixth graders, required sports, advisory activities, and shared time with older foster belonging and confidence.
“It prepares you for life,” says Jon-Philippe Mitchom ‘31. “You learn how to make decisions, manage your workload, and take responsibility.”
Students understand that Priory is preparing them for what comes next. “I’m learning how to manage my time,” says Lucas Pacheco ‘30. “I feel ready.”
Alex Clemens ’32 added that Priory is like a family where you learn independence, leadership, and perseverance. “I like growing in my faith and being able to rely on my brothers at Priory. I enjoy bonding with a lot of people, not just in my grade. The teachers at Priory help and guide us.”
Preparing for High School - and Beyond
By the end of eighth grade, students are academically prepared, spiritually grounded, and confident in who they are.
“Students carry themselves differently,” Dr. Shaw reflects. “With greater maturity and purpose. We talk about faith and fortitude—those qualities build a strong foundation for years to come.”
That foundation continues to strengthen through seventh and eighth grade, ensuring students enter high school not only ready for increased academic demands, but equipped to lead, serve, and thrive.
For alumni and families alike, the addition of Form A represents not a departure, but an expansion – one that honors Priory’s enduring mission while offering greater flexibility for today’s families.
Whether a student begins in sixth, seventh, or ninth grade, Priory remains what it always has been: a place where boys are known, challenged, supported and formed.