About us
Our Mission, Vision, and History
Mission Statement
St. Sava Academy provides a high-quality education in English, enriched by Serbian language instruction and rooted in the Orthodox Christian faith. In a nurturing environment that emphasizes academic excellence, personal attention, and moral development, we guide students to become respectful, resourceful, and active participants in society. Our mission includes fostering a deep appreciation for Serbian culture, history, and language.
Vision
St. Sava Academy aspires to be a leading center for Orthodox Christian education in the Chicagoland area and beyond. Our goal is to deliver academic excellence in English while offering strong Serbian language instruction and promoting the rich traditions of Serbian heritage.
While English is the primary language of instruction, the Academy values multiculturalism and inclusivity. In addition to Serbian, we currently accommodate Russian-speaking students with a dedicated Russian teacher. We are also prepared to support other language groups by hiring qualified instructors if ten or more students demonstrate a need.
Our vision includes fostering meaningful collaboration among students, families, and the wider community, and strengthening ties with Orthodox communities locally, nationally, and globally. Through this culturally rich and faith-centered experience, St. Sava Academy prepares students for lives of purpose, integrity, and connection to their heritage.
Our History
St. Sava Academy was founded in 2001 as a collaborative Orthodox-Christian effort between Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral and Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, both located in Chicago. The initiative began when leaders from the Greek community approached the late V. Rev. Dennis Pavichevich, who had a vision and seized the opportunity to establish the first Serbian dual-language parochial school in the United States. Supported by the Socrates School community from Holy Trinity, this partnership laid the foundation for the Academy’s mission.
On August 28, 2006, the school made history by opening its doors as an independent Serbian Orthodox parochial school. The event marked the beginning of the first academic year, with parents, students, clergy, and faculty celebrating the school’s launch. St. Sava Academy proudly holds the distinction of being the first dual-language Serbian Orthodox parochial school serving preschool through eighth-grade students in the United States and Canada.
In 2023, the Academy moved to a new facility at 5650 N. Canfield Ave, Chicago, IL, formerly home to St. Paul Lutheran School. This new location offers much-needed infrastructure improvements, including classrooms, a gym, cafeteria, and auditorium, providing enhanced resources for the school’s growing student body and expanding its educational programs.
Jackie Majdov
PrincipalYouth is our future
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