St. Thomas the Apostle School

After spending 3 years in the overrated number 1 school District in the Capital Region, we transferred our child to St. Thomas. There is smaller class sizes so the teachers have time to do smaller group instruction. The teacher touches base through e-mail, about the students work assignments and upcoming field trips. The first thing I noticed after the transfer was that I had a happier child in his new school enviroment. St Thomas offers the academics without the pressure.
—Submitted by a parent

Our experience with St Thomas school has been very fulfilling. Our child has received exceptional guidance in developing a solid foundation for faith, academics and community service. It is the best money spent in providing a child with the tools that they need to succeed in life. The administration and teachers are all very supportive and helpful. The school continues to explore and enhance in all areas. Whenever we attend the school we are warmly welcomed. Whenever we email or call the administration or teachers, responses are immediately provided. This school welcomes families and works with them on a daily bases. I would strongly recommend this school to parents who wish to provide their children with solid foundation in the early years of their life.
—Submitted by a parent

Our daughter is a student at St. Thomas the Apostle School in Delmar, New York. We couldn't be happier with the school in its entirety. The care, concern, communication and overall sense of security and attention that we get from the principal, teachers, administrators and staff are second to none. There can be no other choice for our daughter. She is worth it!
—Submitted by a parent

I have been consistently impressed with the attitude of the principal and teachers to continue to move the school forward and try new and innovative things. I think now, the school clearly surpasses what the nearby public school is doing in terms of academics and technology. When you really sit down and compare the academics of what students at the same grade level are learning and how they are learning it, it is certainly impressive. A great foundation for high school.
—Submitted by a parent

What makes St. Thomas the Apostle School so special is the care and devotion that is given to each and every student. The faculty help the children not only succeed academically, but truly excel in all facets of their lives. St. Thomas has always felt like an extension of our family. The Principal and faculty truly care for the students in the school, and there is a mutual respect from the children. The children learn to not only care for one another, but also the community around them. Community service is part of their every day lives, not just something to check off on a to do list. Parent involvement is always welcomed. By attending St. Thomas the Apostle School your child will no doubt have a solid foundation for a successful future.
—Submitted by a parent

Our son has been at St. Thomas the Apostle since he was 3 years old and in Preschool. We have been consistently impressed with the care and concern shown to him at every stage. He has been challenged in his classes and the teachers demonstrate an extremely high level of commitment to their students. The principal develops strong relationships with the students and makes sure to know what is going in this children's lives outside of school as well. This has been a very positive experience for us.
—Submitted by a parent

One of my children graduated from St. Thomas, and I have another child in the school currently. They have been there since preschool. I can't say enough good things about the school. The principal and teachers are extraordinary and care deeply about all the children. The academics are top notch and are comparable to the Bethlehem schools. The strong sense of community among the staff, students and parents is palpable. Finally, the school has a strong focus on faith-based education, with a solid religion curriculum and countless service opportunities for the kids.
—Submitted by a parent

One of the highlights of my child's education at St. Thomas the Apostle School is the focus on service. From singing to seniors at an assisted living facility, to making snack packs for the local food pantry, to making crafts with residents of a group home, my child is learning from a very young age to serve others, to share what we have, and to be aware that he can help those in need. On the academic side, my child is challenged both in the classroom and with homework. Here is a quote from my child: In my opinion, St. Thomas school is awesome. The teachers at St. Thomas are great. You can learn a lot like reading chapter books, learning math facts, and learning how to spell new words and their meanings. I am really thankful for going to St.Thomas.
—Submitted by a parent

The best thing you could ever do for your child is to send him or her to St Thomas. My two children have been at this school for their entire elementary school career and consider it a home away from home. The academics, discipline and extra curricular opportunities are above and beyond those offered at the public schools. The glue that holds the school together is the Principal. He is involved, ever present, fair and concerned about every child and parent.. He is a dedicated, tireless individual who leads a strong academic curriculum while always keeping one's faith at the forefront of everyday activities. I cannot recommend St Thomas enough.
—Submitted by a parent

Fabulous, spiritually-guided school. Upbeat, caring environment, family feeling, terrific academics. Prepares children exceptionally well for high school. Perfect size for both individualized attention -- whether intervention or enrichment -- and social interaction. Teachers and principal are very open to ideas from parents.
—Submitted by a parent

My children have been thriving at St. Thomas the Apostle School in Delmar, and I would recommend it to any parent who would like a combination of faith and academics that is second to none. I am a public school teacher, so I am aware of current best practices and high academic expectations. At St. Thomas, our children have teachers who work very hard to deliver the material in an accessible and engaging way and consistently use the current best practices to instruct, and they constantly communicate with parents. Also, St. Thomas incorporates technology into instruction like no other school I have ever seen. The faith formation adds to the atmosphere because children are allowed to celebrate God while acknowledging and learning about the holidays that are celebrated in the Catholic faith. It is part of their everyday life to pray and pray for the benefit of others. I feel like St. Thomas is the best partner I could have in raising intelligent, compassionate and faith-filled children.
—Submitted by a parent

Caution!! The leadership is lacking and the teachers are inexperienced! I wish I had sent my child to public school. The communication between the principal and staff barely exists. The right hand doesn't talk to the left hand. Permission slips are sent home the night before an event followed by an urgent email stating they must be returned the next day. Think twice before sending your child here.
—Submitted by a parent

St. Thomas not only prepared my daughter for high school academically, but also socially. The faculty at St. Thomas taught her to be a conscientious student. She is currently enrolled in advanced classes and has received several awards and honors for her academic achievement. I was concerned about the transition from a small, close-knit community to a larger environment; however, she transitioned beautifully. She has a strong moral compass and a solid faith which although she is no longer in a Catholic School, is still a big part of who she is as a person. St. Thomas is a wonderful environment - small enough for everyone to know everyone, but large enough to afford students the opportunity to take advanced classes. Class sizes are capped at 25 and students have many opportunities for individual and small group learning.
—Submitted by a parent

What a special school! Small enough that every child is more than just a face but big enough to offer the special programs that parents want - art, music, drama, band, choir, photography club, running club, CYO basketball, etc. Technology offerings included laptops for middle school students, ipads, Media Center, SMART Boards, and more. Teachers are experienced and knowledgeable on Common Core and NYS Learning Standards. The school building includes a full gym and stage, cafeteria, Media Center, Art and Music Rooms, and full size classrooms. Principal is fair and considerate to all - well suited for this school. Enrollment Director is always available to answer questions, provide tours, and help with enrollment process - she just makes it easy! You won't regret your decision to send your children to STS!
—Submitted by a teacher

I recently graduated from this school and I must say I was very well prepared for high school. I went here from preschool until I graduated in eighth grade and it certainly provided me with a great education. You are not treated as "just another kid" and never feel left behind. I truly am grateful I attended this school and hope that anyone interested will visit and hopefully attend this school as well.

My daughter goes to the school and my son will be full time next year as well. The teachers are the best, they relate to the children and not counted as just a number. Each student is treated fair and equal. My children come home everyday happy which to me is half the battle. The other thing I really like with the school is the teachers email every night to parents on what they are learning and the homework they are giving the students. The balance between education and religon is the best. I encourage everyone to at least visit for a free walk around. Our children deserve the best education, atmosphere, and staff possible and this school does it all. God Bless!
—Submitted by a parent

Sending our children to this school was the best parenting decision my husband and I have ever made!
—Submitted by a parent

Uneven leadership. Needs much work on treating children fairly. Teaching spotty and not up to date with zero fun for kids. Poor educational value for the money.
—Submitted by a parent

St. Thomas the Apostle School offers a faith-based alternative to public schools. Children learn in a safe, moral environment. St. Thomas students also consistently meet or exceed other local schools' standardized test scores.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has attended Saint Thomas for 1 full year starting in the fall of 2003. Her first year was 6th grade at St. Thomas after attending Bethlehem Central Schools 'Hamagrael' school. Her transition was smooth, her welcome outstanding and her learning exemplary. The teachers and staff are caring and understanding, and take the time to provide extra time to assure that the student understands and comprehends the curriculum. The Principle is always available, gets to know your child and is a constant presence in classroom as well as the overall development of the school programs. My daughter has adapted extremely well in her new learning environment and I would highly recommend the School to anyone looking for a new school.
—Submitted by John Weidman, a parent