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Saint Joseph Regional High School

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History

Our Story: The Legacy of Saint Joseph Regional High School

Founded: September 1962
First Graduating Class: June 1966
First Principal: Brother Sylvere
Administered by the Xaverian Brothers: 1962–1997
Marist Brothers Affiliation: Began in 2000 and continues today

Key Leadership Milestones

  • Xaverian Principals:

    • Brother Sylvere
    • Brother William Shepard
    • Brother Joseph Smithers
    • Brother Peter Russell
    • Brother William Cushing

  • First Lay Principal: John Job (Class of 1982, Marist High School) who became Father John Job in 2011.

  • First Alumni Principal: Barry Donnelly (SJR Class of 1971).

  • First President: Barry Donnelly ’71.

A School Rooted in Vision and Tradition

Saint Joseph Regional High School was established under the guidance of Archbishop Thomas Boland as part of the Archdiocese of Newark's regional high school initiative. During its inaugural year, classes were held at Our Lady of Mercy School in Park Ridge while the Montvale campus was under construction. The official dedication of the school took place on September 4, 1963.

The Xaverian Brothers laid the foundation for a rigorous college preparatory curriculum, competitive interscholastic athletics, diverse extracurricular programs, and character development through spiritual reflection, service, and family values.

A Legacy of Excellence

Athletics:

  • In the 1960s, SJR was a track powerhouse, with the 1969 team recognized as the "Team of the Century."
  • In the late 80s and throughout the 90s, football, baseball, hockey, and wrestling became dominant forces in New Jersey athletics.
  • Today, SJR continues to excel, especially in football and baseball, maintaining its reputation as a perennial state powerhouse.

Performing Arts:

  • Since 2000, the Performing Arts Program has earned national and regional acclaim, including recognition from USA Today in 2007.
  • Productions have won multiple awards, including:
    • Metropolitan Theater Awards
    • Montclair State High School Theater Awards
    • Papermill Playhouse Rising Star Awards (four consecutive Educational Impact Awards).

Campus Growth and Innovation

2003: A major capital campaign led to:

  • Theater renovations.
  • Construction of the Field House.
  • Installation of an all-weather turf football field and track.
  • Addition of state-of-the-art science labs.

2011: Opening of the Media Center and Television Studio, enhancing technology-driven learning.

2016: Transition to a President-Principal model and establishment of the Office of Advancement to further strengthen the school's administrative and development efforts.

A Tradition of Faith, Excellence, and Brotherhood

Saint Joseph Regional High School continues to uphold its mission of educating young men as Vir Fidelis, the Faithful Man. Through faith-based education, a rigorous academic program, and a wide range of athletic and artistic opportunities, SJR develops leaders who think critically, lead confidently, and serve humbly.

Explore the rich history and vibrant future of Saint Joseph Regional High School—where tradition meets innovation, and every student is part of a legacy that spans generations.