St Thomas Aquinas High School

197 DOVER POINT RD

Dover, NH 03820

9 Reviews

School District
Grade

9-12
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by other on February 01, 2024

When I first started my journey at STA it was a great community and overall supportive. This was before the administration decided to fire half the staff and ask others to resign. STA is no longer the great community it once was. We are constantly disrespected by faculty and staff everyday and treated as if we are below them. Nobody listens to our ideas or feedback and instead tells us to be quiet and keep our heads down. The uniforms are overpriced and uncomfortable. There resolution for not allowing jackets when it is cold is the quarter zips on their website that are paper thin nylon. There recently was a new rule on blazers for mass which are overpriced and not accurate sizing. All the sizes are too small and don't fit anyone correctly and are almost $150 for one blazer including shipping. Now, regarding the teachers situation. At the end of the year last year during the fourth quarter it was a shock that one of the English teachers was fired. Everyone thought it would stop there but no, for a week everyday we were told about a different teacher leaving or being "let go". Although STA likes to deny the "rumors" regarding firing teachers because of LGBTQ issues it was confirmed by one of the teachers. During this time period students had to say goodbye to some of the best teachers they have had and one of the only key pieces holding the school together. The administration promised that the new staff would be even better and improved. So far this year three of the new teachers have left or been fired, one never even showing up to school for her students, missing over 12 days. After promising us "the best staff". The teachers this year have not even come close to making as big of an impact on these kids as the previous ones had. Overall, the school has countlessly let its students down while continuing to lie to families by promoting a false image on social media of a happy school. I have not met one STA student who has genuinely liked the school. Every single one has expressed distaste and dislike of the institution. If you are even considering sending your kids here, think again.
Submitted by parent on July 15, 2023

The abhorrent cruelty shown to staff and students is the antithesis to a Catholic education. This school prioritizes money over kindness, money over integrity. Do NOT recommend.
Submitted by parent on October 04, 2022

I enrolled my Freshman at St. Thomas to get a Catholic education but I’m disappointed to learn about the dress coding and being called out for a minor infraction. I bought all new uniforms but as everyone knows New England weather can turn on a dime. The kids can’t wear coats or jackets to school as they “aren’t part of the uniform.” What? My child was cold and wasn’t allowed to wear a jacket? Starting to feel the stress and negative environment. Education is my priority. Agree with the other review, the GPA change was just wrong and hurtful. I’m beginning to regret this enrollment. We will be returning to public schools and saving money. Hope this helps future families.
Submitted by parent on October 01, 2022

I am a parent and my child is currently a Senior at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Dover, NH. It was once a wonderful, inclusive and welcoming institution for students to grow, learn and build a solid education to be successful in pursuing advanced degrees. That is why I enrolled my child. However, once Principal Collins retired, STA is no longer that welcoming place for students to thrive and has gone downhill.STA for years has graded on a 4.25 GPA scale with the majority of its' students going on to higher education. This year 2022-2023, they decided to lower the scale to a 4.0 GPA scale but didn’t adequately tell the parents. We were not informed of this change in time to decide if we wanted our kids to stay at this school. This seems minor but the administration is applying the 4.0 GPA scale retroactively for all the previous years attended. All students' GPA's have been significantly lowered for all class grades (Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors). This changes how all current Seniors conduct their college searches and applications and at such a short notice. I have no idea why they are doing this and the communication is strained at best.I rarely write negative reviews, but in good conscience, I can’t recommend this school to others.
Submitted by other on October 26, 2020

I graduated from STA in 2015 and am now working on my masters degree in public health before eventually perusing medical school. STA prepared me very well for my undergraduate degree and beyond. As a small school, you get much more individualized attention from teachers and guidance counselors. They made my college application process a breeze. I believe it to be a very loving community there. Like any high school, there will be drama, cliques, etc. but that stuff just can't be avoided. I highly recommend.
Submitted by student on March 24, 2015

I'm freshman at STA. I came here with huge excitement for this place. That "excitement" quickly dwindled to a "utter disgust and repulsion". I was warned coming here that "sometimes this school just isn't for you", and "you either love it; or ya hate it". These were from upperclassmen and I WISH I had listened more carefully. I'm not the only one who feels like this...we have had 3 freshman transfer out before mid-terms. The school is very deceiving as an incoming freshman. Cons: You will find yourself bogged down and STRESSED OUT with homework although they promise that you'll be able to manage your time. The lunches start out GREAT and then slowly degrades. Also, this school is literally the most cliquish place I've ever witnessed. I'm pretty independent and I focus a lot on sports,etc. but there's a lot of kids who are bothered by this. Pros:majority of teachers are very good and intuitive in the classroom with the students. The school is also clean. Bottom line: REALLY take consideration before committing to go here, don't be deceived by the great first impressions. To me, this place isn't worth the $12K. Then again, better than the public schools around here. Hope this helps
Submitted by parent on February 12, 2014

The school is a very respected both by the community and the student body. The teachers are so bright and they actually love to teach their students. I have two boys, a Sophomore and a junior. They play football, basketball and baseball in very competitive divisions. A great education and excellent sports keep my boys very involved and exceptionally pleased with St. Thomas Aquinas. Although not all students are Catholic, mine are so ...... this mom is very proud.
Submitted by student on June 07, 2012

Love STA! Everyone really cares about you. Definitely worth tuition. There are lots of opportunities to be involved with things going on around sta. Sports program is amazing. Literally nothing bad to say about this school!
Submitted by parent on June 23, 2011

Three of my children have graduated from St Thomas Aquinas (STA.) They were well prepared for college academically and socially and developed great time management skills. It was worth every penny to send my children to such a caring and involved community of educators, learners, and thoughtful leaders.