St. Thomas Aquinas School

4600 North Illinois Street

School District
Grade

PK-8
Type

private

GreatSchools Rating

The school rating calculation is based on four ratings: the Student Progress Rating or Academic Progress Rating, College Readiness Rating, Equity Rating, and Test Score Rating each designed to show different facets of school success. Learn more about GreatSchools Ratings

Reviews

Submitted by parent on October 21, 2015

We joined STA halfway through my child's kindergarten year as a result of work relocation. I cannot say enough about the warm welcome we received in what was a very stressful time for our family. We moved from a very large public school so I'm not sure it is fair to compare some aspects but I can't imagine going back to the previous environment. Each of the lower grade classrooms has 2 teachers and they keep their class sizes low which results in a very personalized learning experience for every student. STA does an incredible job of building a "whole child" with focuses on social and emotional wellness in addition to the traditional curriculum.
Submitted by parent on October 20, 2015

I have 2 children at St. Thomas Aquinas school. The school is a small community school where teachers and parents team to make a wonderful environment for the students. There is differentiated learning for those students that need it which is a nice perk to find in a small environment. There is also a focus on bettering the community and the environment. The school is a green ribbon school! My husband and I feel lucky to have found St. Thomas. We have never doubted our decision to choose this school and continue to be very impressed.
Submitted by parent on April 28, 2014

Our child has gone to the same school since kindergarten. Our child loves St Thomas Aquinas for many reasons. Our child is involved in many extra curricular activities at school and is so happy there are so many programs to choose from. Our child feels good about the teachers, staff and families that attend school, as well as the parishioners.
Submitted by parent on April 27, 2014

We have been very pleased with STA. The teachers have alot of input into how they teach the curriculum, and we have seen first hand how they can adjust for a child who needs help or extra encouragement. The community of parents at STA is really terrific; the whole atmosphere here is one of high expectation--STA is very focused upon building individual character; good citizens with strong morals. And they teach cursive. A big plus in my book!
Submitted by parent on April 23, 2014

St. Thomas was awarded a 4-star rating this year. First time since IDOE started this assessment 5 years ago. The principal and staff have worked very hard the past 2 years to make it even better. We've been very impressed with the changes.
Submitted by parent on September 27, 2013

The best thing about St. Thomas is the fact that it is a true neighborhood school, and its acceptance of unique kids and diversity. The education is good but not stunning or the absolute best in the city. There is socioeconomic diversity, but the well-to-do families are very down to earth. I wish there were more than 1 classroom per grade but I wouldn't want my child at any other school.
Submitted by parent on March 19, 2013

Although no school will be able to please every kid or parents, for that matter, the community of St. Thomas has been wonderful, and the education fantastic. My kids were at another catholic school in their early grades, but there wasn't much direction at the time, so we transferred here. Now one is at the Township HS with High Honors, and the other is about to decide where he will go. The education prepares the kids as good as any other school, but a lot of this has to do with the parental involvement. Also, if you don't want the school or parish to 'hound" you while fundraising, go public, you are already paying for that as well as everyone else.
Submitted by parent on October 18, 2012

I am very impressed with the new principal, and I am confident she is going to take St. Thomas from being a great school to an even better one. We have been pleased with the strong and caring teaching staff and the wonderful community there.
Submitted by parent on October 09, 2012

After averaging 1 review a year, I find these recent glowing reviews suspicious. We have been very disappointed with the new principal and staff. It has been very chaotic and communication is lacking. The community and families are very welcoming and friendly and the kids are great.
Submitted by parent on October 01, 2012

We love it! St. Thomas is a small neighborhood school where everyone knows each other and looks out for each other. It is a place where people of all races, religions, and economic backgrounds are welcome. The school is very strong academically and has an excellent differentiated learning program. We are so happy that we found St. Thomas for our children.
Submitted by parent on September 13, 2012

We have been thrilled with St. Thomas. Very positive environment, teaches kids about community and important life skills as well as having a strong curriculum and good teachers.
Submitted by parent on September 11, 2012

This is a very welcoming school. There is great communication among parents, teachers and administration. The curriculum is comprehensive and the children learn important life skills.
Submitted by parent on November 15, 2011

The sixth grade teacher is horrible and the school won't do anything about it despite concerns raised by parents. Looking for a different school for our children for the sixth grade.
Submitted by parent on February 26, 2009

Simply one of the worst schools my child ever attended. Classes offered do not cover even the basic necessities for entering high school. Constantly badgered about fund raising regardless of high tuition.
Submitted by parent on December 08, 2007

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