St Thomas More Cathedral School

"In early 2012, we registered our eldest son for the Pre-K class at St. Thomas More and thought we were signing up for a Catholic education. We’ve received SO. MUCH. MORE. Over the past 7 years we have gotten to know many of the teachers, staff, and families that make up this community. I am consistently humbled by the love and support from caring teachers, supportive front office staff, and friends that have become more like family. Initially we were drawn to STM by the diverse student population and size of the school (multiple classes per grade but still small class sizes.) We’ve experienced firsthand how hugely beneficial both are to our children. We now have three kids in the school, ranging from 5th grade to Pre-Kindergarten, and continue to be impressed with the support and services provided by the school. We’ve had the fortune of receiving reading instruction from the school’s gifted Title 1 teacher in very small group sessions. We’ve also developed a Student Assistance Plan (similar to an IEP) for one of our kids alongside his classroom teacher, the Principal, the Assistant Principal, and a Resource Teacher. We’ve also been blessed by the flexibility of the bookkeeper at a time when I was laid off from my job. I am so thankful for our STM family and the education, both academic and spiritual, that my children are receiving."

"I will begin with the good. Mrs. Johnston, 8th grade teacher is a GEM! She communicates well and truly cares about the students. Now I will share some other points that the community needs to know. Mrs. Fonzi, 1st grade teacher, horrible. My child was pulled from the school about 30 days in due to Mrs. Fonzi mistreating her. We registered for school lunch then in Sept they switched systems. My child went the whole day without eating and Mrs. Fonzi didn't do anything to help. I had 2 kids there and she could have easily got my older child to share her lunch or called me as I was 10 minutes away and could have solved the problem. What teacher with a heart for kids allows a 6 year old not to eat all day? I pulled my daughter the next day. Every day my daughter came home sad while she was under Mrs. Fonzi's care. Now let's move to Tara, the bookkeeper. As of 01/01, both of my kids were withdrawn from STM. We relocated out of state. I emailed Tara about 7 days before the tuition was set to come out - keep in mind my kids no longer attend - so I am simply paying per policy as they state that all tuition must be paid by trimester regardless of the student being enrolled or not. So I reach out and state that I am asking that all final payments be invoiced and that no funds be withdrawn from my account. Tara has full power and she stated this in writing, to help with the situation, and still takes the money. My account then triggers overdraft charges so instead of owing $550 for tuition my account is more than $700 in the negative. All I requested was for the opportunity to pay by check from a different account within the same time frame but no. So my concerns are how can an institution be teaching our kids the principles of the Catholic faith and to be holy, forgiving, etc and not practice them as adults? There was a 48 hour difference in my payday and when the funds were to be withdrawn. Tara had the ability to support and still be paid but she chose to flex her power regardless of how it impacted me. The crazy part is my kid isn't even enrolled! My family has several more examples of mistreatment that we could share here but I think this review is long enough. The great American illusion - we have institutions such as schools and churches and government set up "for the people" yet everyday "the people" who are supposed to be served and supported are treated bad. I hope that STM reflects on how their staff are interacting with the parents and students in their care. As an award winning educator, I am now homeschooling my kids. I don't need to pay people to mistreat us!"

"We are on our 4th year with 3 kids at STM. There were many schools to choose from, but STM stood out during my search. From my inquiry call to the first day of school- the administrative staff did an excellent job transitioning me through the admission process. The school has multiple classes for each grade and it offered the most diverse student population. The teachers’ passion shines through via the communication with parents, involvement in special events, and relationships with students. The curriculum has proved challenging for my kids. The class sizes are small and students can work at different paces that enable a comfortable learning environment. The PTO is active and they do an awesome job planning excellent events throughout the year for students, families, teachers, and faculty. I love that each time I call the school or go to the front office- I am always taken care of and when I leave- I know my kids are in loving hands."

"My children began 4 years ago at STM in K. I was searching for a faith based school where my children would be challenged and thrive. The teachers are accommodating to all educational hurdles and are eager to work through challenges that are individual and unique to each student. Class sizes are small and students are given ample opportunities for sports and after school enrichment activities."

"I love it here at Saint Thomas More. The faculty is friendly, the teachers are supportive and caring, and the education is great. They provide a faith-filled learning environment with challenging lessons that are not too easy nor too hard. For anyone looking for the perfect Catholic or private school for their children, I would recommend this school. If you aren't Catholic, don't worry. As a current student, I would say that they are firm on religion but not too strict either. Here at this school, manners and proper behavior is valued, and the Catholic faith (even if you aren't) expands your viewpoint of this world and [not necessarily] changes you into a more carefree, happy, and spirited person. There are many extracurricular activities, such as chess, sports, robotics, and much more. I am currently inside the STM band and this has inspired me to pursue in my hobbies. Being in band has also allowed me to make new friends and enjoy making music with other people. There are also many subjects, the major ones including Math, Science, Language Arts and Reading, Social Studies, Religion, and Spanish. Others include Music Practice, Art, Library, and Computer. If I were to recommend one school later in the future, I would say that it would be Saint Thomas More. I'm proud to be a student!"