Saint Thomas Academy provides a unique educational experience for young men in grades 7 - 12. The Academy is a Catholic school with a spiritual and religious foundation; a college preparatory school committed to preparing young men to succeed in college and in life; an all-male school with a special emphasis on helping young men grow into manhood; a military school focused on leadership training and character development.
STUDENTS
Six hundred ninety-five young men from the Twin Cities metro area are enrolled at school, including students from a range of socioeconomic and ethnic groups. Approximately 75% of the students are Catholic; all faiths are welcome. Approximately 30% of the students receive $1.4 million in financial assistance.
FACULTY
Studies show that boys learn differently than girls and Academy administrators and teachers are experts at educating boys. The curriculum is tailored to provide the best possible educational environment for our students. The faculty averages 17 years of teaching experience; approximately 83% hold a Masters or Ph.D. Three-quarters of the faculty serve as coaches for the co-curricular programs, enhancing relationships with their students.
ACADEMICS
The Academy offers ten Advanced Placement (AP) courses. In 2006, students averaged 3.29 out of 5 on AP exams; 77% scored high enough to receive college credit.
2007 National Merit Scholarship Program five semi-finalists, and nine commended students as of October 2006 (10% of the class).
One hundred percent of students take a college entrance exam (ACT, SAT, or both) and consistently score better than the Minnesota and national averages.
Last year, 100% of our graduates continued their education at post-secondary institutions. Since 1995, 66% of Academy graduates have attended either "most, highly, or very competitive" post-secondary schools, as ranked by Barron's Guide.
RELIGION AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
Catholic beliefs and Christian values are taught and practiced every day, in and out of the classroom. Students from the middle and upper schools have numerous opportunities to give back to the community. For example, the Campus Ministry program works with people throughout the metro area, across the United States, and abroad. This foundation of assistance culminates with 100 hours of community service during a student's senior year.
MILITARY/LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Through the Academy's hands-on Leadership program, cadets cultivate strength of character, personal discipline, individual excellence, and responsible leadership. The school's military discipline prepares graduates to be successful, ethical leaders in their future academic, personal, and professional lives.
CO-CURRICULAR ATHLETICS AND ACTIVITIES
It is part of the school's philosophy to involve students in activities beyond the classroom. Participation positively affects classroom performance and provides another avenue to achieve excellence and develop friendships. More than 90% of students participate in at least one co-curricular sport or activity.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
The Academy is committed to keeping Middle School classes small, allowing for personal instruction and helping develop a sense of camaraderie among the students. Curriculum and instructional emphasis is placed on learning and developing good study skills, building self-esteem and confidence, and improving communication, writing, and listening skills.
Website: www.cadets.com
