School Spotlight: St. John the Baptist of Vermillion

St. John the Baptist Catholic School: Be Known, Be True, Be You

With over 125 years of history behind the parish, St. John the Baptist Catholic School (SJB) has become a flourishing Catholic community within the Vermillion area. The longstanding history of this tri-parish community has become a legacy of education, with a quarter of the staff having been at the school for over 20 years.

Pam McSweeney began her role at SJB as principal in 2024. Since then, she has successfully continued the SJB legacy of excellent education and community. What makes this possible? Pam notes: “It begins with a rich tradition of Catholic education and a community deeply committed to supporting our small rural school. St. John’s is rooted in generations of families who value faith, service, and academic excellence.”

This culture of tradition extends to St John’s staff, as well. “Our staff is nothing short of exceptional. They are engaging, compassionate, and deeply dedicated—not just to Catholic education, but to living out our school’s mission each day. Many have served here for decades, including one teacher who is both a proud alumna and a 1987 graduate of SJB. Their passion and longevity are a testament to the heart of this school community.”

“Our small school and close-knit community allow us to truly live our mission and motto by knowing and welcoming every student. I was drawn to SJB because of its strong sense of faith and tradition, deeply woven into the fabric of the school,” shares Pam.

For Teresa Hyneke, a kindergarten teacher who has been at SJB for 25 years, the school stands out as a place for exceptional development of the whole person. “We help shape well-rounded students who not only grow academically and personally, but who also have the confidence and foundation to publicly live and share their Catholic faith.”

As a principal committed to providing access to Catholic education for all, Pam notes the importance of the Aim Higher Foundation in their school community. “Several of our families are only able to attend SJB thanks to the support of Aim Higher. Knowing this scholarship is available year after year provides peace of mind and relieves the stress of how they will continue to afford a quality Catholic education for their children.”

The Aim Higher Foundation is proud to support accessibility to this mission and the tradition-driven school community at SJB.

About St. John the Baptist Catholic School

St. John the Baptist Catholic School is an enduring community supported by our three partner parishes—St. John the Baptist in Vermillion, St. Mary’s in New Trier, and St. Mathias in Hampton. Each once had its own school, and today they continue their shared tradition of Catholic education by sending students to St. John’s. We now serve families from an even wider area, supported by committed donors and alumni whose connection spans generations. Many of our supporters were students here decades ago and now have grandchildren enrolled. Learn more here.