Established in 1843, St. John the Baptist School holds the distinction of being the first Catholic school in McHenry County, with humble beginnings rooted in the Johnsburg community.
1843 - The Founding Years
The first Catholic School in McHenry County is established at St. John the Baptist Catholic Parish.
The first church, made of logs, served also as a school. This gives St. John's the distinction as the first Catholic school in McHenry County.
1866 - Growth and Expansion
A little one room schoolhouse, known as the "District School," is constructed to accommodate the growing population.
Lay-teachers oversee education until 1901 when the need for a larger school becomes apparent.
1901 - St. Joseph Parochial School
A new school building is erected behind the District School. The second level boasted a spacious parish hall.
The District School became the classroom for the seventh and eighth grades.
The new building was named the St. Joseph Parochial School after the school sisters of St. Francis of the St. Joseph Covenant in Milwaukee, WI, who assume teaching responsibilities for both schools.
1945 - Adversity and Resilience
Tragedy strikes as fire destroys the school on February 19, 1945, leaving only the District School intact.
Temporary arrangements are made, with classes held in the Hettermann's garage until a new structure can be built.The temporary structure was ready for Fall classes while plans were made for a permanent arrangement.
1950 - Transition to James C. Bush Elementary
Classes temporarily relocate to James C. Bush Elementary School while plans for a permanent solution are devised. The community voted in favor of having the nuns continue to teach even though it was a public school.
This arrangement was short-lived when a Johnsburg resident filed a complaint in April 1953, stating that while the school was public, it was operating as Roman Catholic.
1953 - Return to St. John's
Following a brief period of transition, classes resume in a new structure by the end of the '53/'54 school year.
The school complex, featuring an administration center, gymnasium, early education classrooms, science and computer labs, library, and conference room, is established.
Present Day
From its modest beginnings in a small log cabin to its present-day modern facilities, St. John the Baptist School remains a beacon of Catholic education, fostering the growth and development of its students and parish families.
Join us in celebrating our rich history and the blessings that have shaped our Catholic community at St. John's.