Frequently Asked Questions
What type of faith formation takes place for students?
Students participate in daily prayer, weekly masses, and prayer services. Our priests can often be found in the school (or on the playground!). Sacrament preparation takes place in our second grade for reconciliation and first communion. Students are expected to interact with one another and adults in a Christian manner every day.
Does St. Thomas Aquinas Academy participate in the Choice program?
Yes, STAA participates in both the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program and the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program. There is a residential and income requirement that is required to be met. Click here for more information about Choice.
What age must my child be to enroll in 4 or 5 year old Kindergarten? Is Kindergarten full or half day?
Students must be four or five years old on or before September 1st of the school year for which they are applying. Both our K4 and K5 are only offered in full-day format.
Is full-day K4 too much for such a young child?
Our K4 teachers are very understanding and respectful of the students' young age so they are given plenty of time for snacks, bathroom breaks, free play, and rest throughout the day. The kids tend to adjust quickly and easily to attending school for a full day and soon they're looking forward to coming to school to play with their new friends!
What are school hours?
Students are let in the building beginning at 7:40 am to eat breakfast. The official start time is 8:00 am. Classes conclude and are dismissed at 3:15 pm. School office hours are 7:30 am-3:30 pm.
Is before and after school care available?
There sure is! We have extended care available in both the morning and afternoon. The doors open at 6:00 am until school begins at 7:40 am and care starts again from 3:15 pm until 6:00 pm. Students are in a structured environment with the opportunity to complete homework, eat an afternoon snack, play games in the gym or on the playground (weather permitting), and watch occasional movies. The program is directed by school employees.
Will I need to participate in fundraising activities?
St. Thomas Aquinas Academy participates in a variety of fundraisers every year, such as the Archdiocese-sponsored Catholic Schools Walk in the Fall and other school-led fundraising events. Families are encouraged but not required to be active participants in these fundraisers, as they are a major source of income for the school and help to provide the many great programs we have here at STAA. We also have a number of volunteer positions available to meet the interest and ability of parents. The number one requirement for successful volunteering is enthusiasm!
What are some ways that parents can be involved in the school?
We have developed several opportunities for parents to be active in our school community, offering a chance to use your many gifts and talents as parents. Visit our Get Involved section on our website for more information!
What “specials” classes do students participate in every week?
Beginning in K4, students have the opportunity to learn music, art and participate in physical education multiple times a week.
What does your athletics program consist of?
We are pleased to have an outstanding Athletics program at STAA, offering Fall Co-Ed Soccer (K4-8th), Spring Futsal (K4-4th), Girls Volleyball (5th-8th), Girls and Boys Basketball (5th-8th) and Track (5th-8th).
What extracurricular activities does St. Thomas Aquinas Academy offer?
Students have the opportunity to join Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. STAA also has an active Student Council and two students from each class (grades 3-8) are voted by their peers to participate during the school year. Middle school students have the opportunity to participate in Robotics. We also have various clubs, such as Crazy 8s Math Club (grades 3-5), Girls on the Run (girls in grades 3-5), Dance Club (grades K5-3), Arts & Crafts Club (grades 1-3), and STEM Club (grades 3-5) throughout the school year. There is something for everyone!
Can my child attend St. Thomas Aquinas Academy if he/she is not Catholic?
St. Thomas Aquinas Academy (and its cluster parishes) respects the dignity of every child. Neither race, nationality, nor other forms of discrimination will prevent a child from being accepted into a Catholic school or religious education programs. Children of other religions may be accepted on a seat-available basis unless attendance would cause conflict for the child because of the unique religious philosophy of these education programs.
What is your policy on providing nutritious meals for lunch?
Our goal is to influence students' eating behaviors as nutrition influences a child's development, health, well-being, and potential for learning. We offer FREE breakfast and hot lunch for all students. We strive to ensure that all students have access to healthy food choices during school and school functions, provide a pleasant eating environment for students and staff, and allow a minimum of 20 minutes for students to eat lunch and socialize.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Students are required to wear a forest green, white or approved gray collared shirt with navy or khaki pants. Girls may also wear navy or khaki skirts, jumpers, or dresses. We have plenty of dress-down opportunities throughout the year, including generous jeans days, spirit wear days, and special occasions. Refer to our Parent and Student Handbook for complete details regarding our dress code policy.
How safe is the school?
St. Thomas Aquinas Academy is located in Milwaukee’s quiet and safe neighborhood of Bay View. The building is monitored by cameras both inside and outside the facility. Doors are locked at all times while school is in session and visitors must be buzzed in and immediately report to the school office to sign in. In recognizing the dangers of the world around us, we routinely practice school lockdown procedures and immediate danger drills. The safety of our students, teachers and staff is a top priority. Every priest, deacon, parish and school staff members, teachers and lay ministers employed by a parish or school and any volunteer working with minors in our archdiocese is required to take the Safe Environment Course, which consists of attending a Safe Environment Education Session, passing a criminal background check, and signing the Code of Ethical Standards for Leaders.