College of St. Benedict/St. John's University

The College of St. Benedict is located in downtown St. Joseph; St. John's University approximately three miles from the center of town. The two private liberal arts institutions bring highly educated professionals and cultural opportunities to the small German hamlet of St. Joseph. The long term presence of the highly respected educational institutions means cultural opportunities and educated citizens abound and are are woven in the fabric of the community.

Kennedy Community School

Kennedy Community School is a PK-8 school located in St. Joseph which is part of St. Cloud Independent School District (742).

In 2012, Kennedy Community School was named among the first-ever U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools

Honored schools exercise a comprehensive approach to creating "green" environments through reducing environmental impact, promoting health, and ensuring a high-quality environmental and outdoor education to prepare students with the 21st Century skills and sustainability concepts needed in the growing global economy.

In addition, the U.S. Green Building Council has awarded St. Cloud Area School District 742s Kennedy Community School a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Schools (LEED) certification at the GOLD level.

Park & Recreation Opportunities

The City of St. Joseph is committed to providing and maintaining at least ten acres of park land per 1,000 residents. A progressive goal that's at the heart of the City's Master Park and Trail Plan. A total of 78 acres of parks are currently maintained in the City of St. Joseph. Sidewalks and trails link commercial and residential neighborhoods and provide a loop and access to/from the Lake Wobegon Regional Trail which traverses the City.

The Lake Wobegon Trail is a 46 mile, ten foot wide bituminous surfaced recreational facility that traverses the City and connects to the local trail system.

Historic Downtown

St. Joseph's historic downtown district has been described as a prime example of a German hamlet and a location which confirms the community's understanding of its core values. The City continues to recognize the importance of keeping architectural and spatial relations among historic "Minnesota Street," St. Benedict's Monastery, and the College of St. Benedict intact.

Quality of Life Indicators

• Growing Population
• Increasing Diversity
• Early Childhood Education
• Higher Income
• Lower Cost of Living
• Strong Local Businesses
• Variety of Housing
• Public and Private Educational Facilities with High Grades
• Cultural Resources
• Natural Environment: Big Woods, Water, and Scenic Vistas
• Access to Locally Grown Food
• Low Crime Rate
• Socially Connected
• Community Spirit
• Gathering Space
• Utility Capacity
• Involved Government
• Accessible Healthcare
• Active Community