Holy Trinity Catholic School

From a first year parent-after several years at Montesorri & Spanish immersion schools: - academic rigor? Our 1st grader is doing the same academics as a neighbor's 2nd grader at a local exemplary public school. Other friends complain about their kids being bored at another local exemplary public elementary school. HTCS seems committed to rigorous academics. - class size vs public schools? With more disciplined classrooms our daughter gets a lot of individual attention, personal touches, and has developed close relationships with her teachers. - Catholic identity? When our daughter comes home singing church songs, wants to pray the rosary and asks questions such as "why does the Holy Spirit have flames" we can see her faith becoming an integral part of her life. - extra-curricular activities? There are more than enough and we often have to choose from several a week. We had heard about the community bonding with other families/kids who have similar values and have now experienced it first hand. -cost? We might not be able to save as much for college, but we think the strong educational and spiritual foundation she is receiving will pay more dividends. Happy with HCTS? Extremely
--Submitted by a parent

The true shining stars of this school are its teachers and students. We have been pleased with the overall quality of HTCS, despite the recent changes. Every school in the area, private or public, has gone through such changes. So far, HTCS has not disappointed in how it handled those changes, and has remained focused, amid all the "noise," on providing a compassionate, balanced, and academically challenging Catholic education. The majority of the teachers treat students with dignity and love, and encourage them to do their very best. The curriculum is accelerated, especially in the new math, science, phonics and social studies. The art and music programs are top notch, kids having opportunities to perform in a band or choir at elementary level. The kind and creative art teacher reminds our kids to pay attention to the beauty of fine arts every week. The lower grade Spanish curriculum could use an update - more hands-on activities involving the Spanish speaking world, not just our southern neighbor. And the P.E. program could be more athletic and competitive. But overall, a strong Catholic school and a superior academic option to the local public schools.
--Submitted by a parent

Holy Trinity is the only Catholic School that makes me feel welcome every time I have a question. They always seem to find the time to talk to me and to find the answers for me. I think they are an excellent school.
--Submitted by a parent

Most of the postings are outdated since a lot has happened in the last two years. Principal left in October 2011 amidst a mystery cloud and interim principal is well-intentioned but has no gravitas. The school is really suffering from lack of leadership. It seems to cater more and more to the conservative catholic section. Aside from the religious education, there is no added-value to the school compared to surrounding isd's.
--Submitted by a parent

I've been a teacher for 24 years now and Holy Trinity Catholic School is the most enthusiastic and challenging school I've ever encountered. The administration opens up new possibilities and opportunities both for the faculty/staff, and the students and their families. High academic standards and expectations are incorporated with a sincere Catholic identity. There is an overall sense of graciousness and caring throughout the school making teachers and students glad to be there every day.
--Submitted by a teacher

I'm wondering why they claim to be a National Blue Ribbon School because when you check the List of 2010 Blue Ribbon Schools, they are not listed.

This school is just like a public school that is rated "recognized" or "exemplary". They don't really differ academically. Whenever I read the newsletters I don't consistently find stories about outstanding students. It only happens once in a long while. So I'm thinking of finding a better school for my child.
--Submitted by a parent

HTCS is a great school. Our daughter is now in the 8th grade and has been with the school since she was in the 2nd grade. HTCS does not sit on its laurels and constantly seeks ways to improve on the learning environment. The recent changes are exciting, and I only wish that my daughter were there to experience it in the years ahead. The children that continue with this school are very fortunate.
--Submitted by a parent

I am a former teacher at Holy Trinity and a former public school teacher. Besides the obvious benefits of a Catholic education, this school excels in academics. Because there is no TAKS test, teachers can teach the subject not the test. The curriculum is more stringent than public school but there is extra help available for any student who needs help. The students are required to do homework and unlike public school 99% do their work and therefore the learning that takes place is amazing. Parent support and volunteering is more than amazing.
--Submitted by a teacher

I really dislike this school. many people say they are blessed to go here, this is not true. Yes i am blessed enough to afford their rising tuition, but not blessed in the academics and teachers. I used to go to public school and prefer to be going there instead of a 6000 dollar school, not including anything. Just tuition. This school has sure gone down hill.
--Submitted by a student