St. Thomas More Catholic School

I love this school!!!! My children have gone to this school for three years, and have learned a great deal. My oldest daughter attended Walzem Elementary for two years with a very poor outcome. The classes are small. The teachers are well educated, and love their students. The staff all care about the parents and students. It is a very warm atmosphere. The parents are involved in their childrens education, and know one another. Most students start off in Pre-K and stay until 8th grade. It is a very close community. Only one class per grade level. My children are crying because we are moving, and they will no longer be able to attend this school.
--Submitted by a parent

One difficulty is that decisions are made about principals and teachers, without parents or students ever knowing why. Frequently, it seems the one you like best, that are innovative and breathe 'life' into the school that they seem to let go. On a positive side, there are small class sizes, the kids wear uniforms (less competition and fighting over appropriate clothing, and they supervise the kids closely. I would NOT describe it as one big happy family though. There seems to be some in-fighting among the staff and while some of the newer teachers are very good and seem to enjoy and encourage the students and the profession of teaching, others seem tired, irritable, and as if they do not like students (or children) at all. Thank heavens the principal helps set a positive tone, but it seems that is changing.
--Submitted by a parent

I have been very disappointed with this school. The teachers do not keep the students interest, they complain about the students and other teachers. It really isn't any different than public schools. You can get a better education elsewhere without having to pay for it.

I love this school it is a very good school. I love all the kids that go to the school. It is like one big family. All the teachers are great. All the staff is great too. Keep up the good work!
--Submitted by julia prado, a student

When we decided to relocate in the city, I made sure it would not affect us being able to keep our son at St. Thomas More. My son (and most all of his classmates) could read after finishing Kinder after a great foundation in Pre-K and Kinder. The curriculum is sound, and I know my son is in a loving environment that supports our values. The school is growing its music curriculum, offers a great after-school program, and a summer program that is very fun and educational. Teachers keep us informed and involved; and the office staff is warm and helpful.
--Submitted by a parent

Teachers - hear a lot of complaining from teachers about each other and the students. Academics - really frustrated with Math program. Not every student learns material as quickly as others do. Parent Involvement - there is none - it's the same old parents helping over and over again. Extracurricular activities - what is available is fine if that is what you are looking for. Office staff - overall office is unfriendly. Ever hear of the Christian Radio Station?
--Submitted by a parent

STM's faculty and staff are committed to providing a quality education to their students. There are tutors and teachers available well after the regular school day is finished. Numerous parents and church parishioners provide personal time and financial resources to this school of only 200 students. There are some facility shortcomings in terms of not having a gym, but this is offset by having a strong link between the STM students and the Catholic Youth Organization for extracurricular athletic activities. The Principal is energetic and focused on improving teaching techniques and overhauling portions of the curriculum. Test scores are some of the best in the city.
--Submitted by a parent

School has come a long way in the past three years. The School was on the verge of closing three years ago but is now on a sound financial bases. The school has a waiting list in 9 of the 10 grades offered. New administration has brought a focus to the school that emphasizes both academic excellence and Christian environment. School meets as a community each morning for prayer to solidify the idea that the school is made up of all members of the community. PTC is strong and representative of the entire school community. Over the past summer, the physical facilities were refurbished, 24 computers were added to the classrooms, and new Language Arts, Math, and Science books were purchased. School is small and intends to remain at about its current registration of 210. School council has just completed work on a Strategic Plan extending to 2012.
--Submitted by a staff

This school does not offer enough diversity in their programs. Most of the lower level books used are outdated. Since you are paying for your child's education, extra attention should be given to each child that needs it; it is not. The school is very cold and un-friendly. Consider spending your hard earned money on another catholic school before this one. When looking, consider how much attention your child will get, the nurturing affect your child needs, and what else your child learns besides book knowledge. Children need to learn respect, good ethical behavior and moral values in people.
--Submitted by a parent