“That they may have life more abundantly” is the motto of St. John’s Preparatory School, Astoria. The motto comes from the Gospel of John and refers to the reason Christ came into the world – so that people could live life to the fullest. It is this goal of helping young men and women develop their full potential that St. John’s Prep is dedicated.

The school was founded by the Vincentian Fathers in Brooklyn in 1870. It is currently located in the residential community of Astoria, Queens. The school building features large and well equipped science laboratories, state-of-the-art computer labs, wireless capability, smart boards, a well-stocked library, a band room, art room, a magnificent auditorium, beautiful chapel, spacious guidance center, a large gymnasium, a fully-equipped weight room, an outdoor track and its own retreat center.

St. John’s Prep seeks to fulfill its mission by providing a vigorous academic education that prepares students for the challenges they will meet in the 21st century.

Advanced Placement courses are offered in all subject areas. Students in the Honor Program take supplementary courses in Latin and art history. Students may also take college level courses through St. John’s University College Advantage Program.

St. John’s Prep has a unique academic affiliation with St. John’s University. The Baccalaureate Program is a special program that allows qualified students at the Prep to complete their senior year of high school at the University. For eligible students this is a great saving of time and money.

The spiritual needs of the Prep’s students are fostered by teaching the values, concepts and practices of the Catholic faith. The values, concepts, and practices are conveyed not just through religion classes but through an extensive retreat program and Christian service opportunities.

The Prep develops the social, cultural, and emotional development through extensive extracurricular and co-curricular offerings. Athletic teams are fielded in baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, tennis, track and volleyball, and weight lifting. Performance groups consist of modern dance, African dance, Spanish dance, jazz-rock band, drama, gospel choir, and mixed chorus.

As a college preparatory school, St. John’s Prep lays the foundation for success for college and beyond. Within a vibrant and supportive learning environment, students are continually challenged to develop their creative and intellectual skills, to think critically, and to form habits for life-long learning. Each year, 100 percent of St. John’s Prep graduates enroll at public and private colleges and universities across the United States. These schools report that St. John’s Prep graduates are among their best prepared incoming students.

At St. John’s Prep students truly become leaders for tomorrow.

TACHS Code: 020