At St. Joseph School-Fullerton (SJSF), STEM education empowers students from Pre-K through eighth grade to become future-ready leaders. Located in the Perry Hall community of Baltimore County, this private Catholic school integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. At St. Joseph School, students start exploring STEM at just 4 years old in Pre-K and continue developing their skills all the way through 8th grade. As an extension to the daily curriculum, after-school STEM offerings provide programs for students to dive deeper into robotics, 3D design, coding, and engineering.
Many schools, including SJSF, have embraced STEAM by incorporating the arts into STEM education, encouraging innovation and deeper learning. “At St. Joseph School-Fullerton, we are dedicated to providing students with innovative learning experiences beyond the classroom,” said Principal Mrs. Chrissie Ashby. “From our three after-school STEM clubs to the more than 20 clubs and activities available, we strive to create opportunities where every student can explore their interests, develop new skills, and thrive.”
Getting Started When They’re Young
Students begin STEM education beginning at 4 years old in their Pre-K classes. This continues and develops all the way up to 8th grade. For its youngest learners in grades 1-3, St. Joseph School-Fullerton partners with STEAM education company Snapology, to engage students with guided instruction, and collaborative learning. Using LEGO bricks, technology, and interactive activities, SJSF students gain a firm foundation in STEAM principles through activities that feel more like play than schoolwork.
A Deeper Dive into Tech
For students in grades 4-8, SJSF offers the opportunity to venture more deeply into STEM learning in Robotics Club. Led by SJSF teachers Mr. Matthew Llufrio and Mrs. Amber Donnelly, Robotics Club offers hands-on learning with VEX IQ Robotics, 3D Printing, and Meta Oculus Quest 3 Virtual Reality headsets.
In its VEX IQ Robotics program, students design, build, and program robots using block-based coding or Python. “This program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork,” says Mr. Matthew Llufrio.
Mr. Llufrio, who holds a Master’s in Education in Instructional Design and Technology, pioneered SJSF’s STEM and continues to shape its growth.
“We look forward to entering competitions like the VEX IQ Robotics Competition and assisting students in applying for STEM scholarships,” Mr. Llufrio adds. “ We are also introducing Meta Oculus Quest 3 headsets, giving students hands-on experience with immersive and augmented reality.” SJSF is one of the few schools in the area with this cutting-edge technology.
Students also explore 3D design and printing using one of the school’s four state-of-the-art 3D printers. Through this program, students learn the basics of computer-aided design (CAD) and bring their creations to life by designing and printing their own models. “Our after-school STEM programs ensure students develop a strong foundation in 21st-century skills while having fun,” said Mrs. Amber Donnelly. “They are empowered to be confident problem-solvers and creative thinkers.”
About St. Joseph School
St. Joseph School-Fullerton provides a well-rounded education rooted in academic excellence and spiritual growth, welcoming students of all faiths and backgrounds. Beyond STEM, students participate in extracurriculars like Band, Choir, Chess Club, Drama Club, Cross Country, and academic competitions such as It’s Academic and Math Olympiad.
Recognitions & Accolades
- TOP 3 Finalist for Best Private School (Elem/Middle): 2025 Reader Rankings Awards by The Daily Record *Winner announced in October
- Best Schools (2025): Named a 2025 Best School by Niche for earning a “Straight A” ranking for academics, diversity and teachers.
- Top Workplace (2017-2024): For the eighth consecutive year, SJSF has been named a Top Workplace by Baltimore Sun Media, reflecting our positive culture and commitment to excellence.
- Best Private School: Co-Ed (2024): Voted by readers of Baltimore Style magazine, this honor highlights our outstanding academics, strong community spirit, and holistic approach to education.
- Blue Ribbon School of Excellence (2016): Named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education (2016). This prestigious award affirms the hard work of our students, educators and families.
St. Joseph School is hosting an Open House for prospective families for the 2026-2027 school year on Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 9am-12pm. To attend and reserve your family’s private tour, register online today: https://www.stjoeschool.org/admissions/open-house.
