History
Since opening its doors on September 11, 1951, St. Thomas School has grown from a single classroom of 17 students into a thriving preschool through eighth grade independent school. As we celebrate our 75th anniversary, we invite you to explore the people, milestones, and moments that have shaped our community.
The Early Years (1951–1968)
Reverend Vall-Spinosa and Mrs. McCracken with an early STS class.
St. Thomas School (STS), originally known as St. Thomas Day School, opened its doors on September 11, 1951, as a parish school for St. Thomas Episcopal Church. Founded by the Reverend Arthur Vall-Spinosa, the school was created in response to overcrowding in the public school system caused by the post-war baby boom. STS began with 17 first and second-grade students in a modest wooden frame building across from its current campus in Medina. The class was taught by Delphian Allen. Under Father Vall-Spinosa’s leadership, St. Thomas School grew quickly as a trusted educational alternative, meeting the needs of a rapidly expanding community.
By 1954, the need for a permanent facility became clear, and construction on the current school site began. When Father Vall-Spinosa left the parish in 1967, St. Thomas Episcopal Church decided the school should become a separate entity. On August 13, 1968, the school’s board of trustees was formed, and STS was incorporated. Genevieve McCracken, who had been a teacher at the school since 1953, was appointed as Headmistress of the newly independent school. The new Trustees felt strongly that the reorganized school should maintain a mutually beneficial relationship with St. Thomas Church. Although fully independent, the school leases its current property from St. Thomas Church, and both institutions continue to work together in a spirit of cooperation.
Expansion and Development (1970–1992)
Ron Smallman
In August 1970, Ronald L. Smallman became headmaster, and STS entered a period of significant growth. During his tenure, the school introduced a dress code, added physical education facilities, and expanded the curriculum to include foreign language – originally French, then Latin, and now Spanish. The school’s infrastructure continued to grow, with the addition of a new library, classrooms for an expanding preschool program, and other essential resources.
In 1990, a major building campaign doubled the size of the school, adding a technology center, art and science rooms, and expanded administrative offices. The school also launched its Extended Day program to support working families. Smallman’s dedication to the school’s mission was further reflected in the establishment of the school’s first endowment for financial aid in 1992, ensuring that more students could benefit from the STS experience. After 21 years of service, Smallman retired, and Joan Beauregard, who had previously served as the 6th grade teacher and the associate head of school, succeeded him as head of school.
Endowment and Growth (1992–2005)
The 1990s saw a period of financial growth and development, with multiple endowments established. In 1994, The Faculty Enrichment Endowment was founded, and its rapid growth, supporting professional development for teachers and administrators, speaks to the support that the community willingly gives to its professional staff. Subsequent years have seen the establishment of The John Fluke, Sr. Endowment for Science and Reading (1995), The Humanities Endowment (1996), The Library/Media Resources Endowment (1997), The Knoblauch Endowment for Theatre Arts (1999), and The Faculty Compensation Endowment (2003). These funds laid the groundwork for the continued enhancement of STS’s educational programs and solidified its commitment to providing a top-tier learning environment.
Shaping the Future of STS (2005–2015)
In July 2005, Dr. Kirk Wheeler succeeded Joan Beauregard as head of school, ushering in a new era of growth and strategic vision. Under Dr. Wheeler’s leadership, the community embarked on an ambitious plan to modernize its campus and expand its programs. In May 2007, the school launched its first major capital campaign to fund the construction of a new campus and to support other key initiatives, including financial aid grants, professional development, and academic program enhancements.
In June 2007, the community bid farewell to the old school buildings, and for the next year, St. Thomas School temporarily relocated to the Linbrook Office Park. By August 2008, the school returned to its Medina campus, moving into a brand-new, state-of-the-art 55,000-square-foot facility designed by Bassetti Architects. This new building, certified LEED® Gold for Schools, provided students with a cutting-edge learning environment that reflected the school’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
In 2009–2010, the board of trustees voted to add seventh and eighth grades, expanding the school to serve middle school students. Planning began immediately to redesign the facility to meet the unique needs of this age group. Updates included a new media center, a student store, and ample collaborative spaces where middle school students could gather to work on projects. In June 2014, St. Thomas School proudly graduated its first class of eighth graders—students who were well-prepared for their high school adventures and poised to make meaningful contributions in their next academic chapters.
Bridging Tradition and Innovation (2015-2020)
The 2015–2020 Strategic Plan was a bold step forward in advancing St. Thomas School’s vision, building on its long-standing commitment to character, curriculum, and community. This plan deepened the school’s programs, expanded its facilities, and cemented St. Thomas School as a leader in 21st-century education. It laid the groundwork for significant initiatives, including the establishment of the Center for Leadership and Innovation (CLI) and the Center for Responsive Learning (CRL).
Recognizing the need for additional physical space to fulfill the plan’s ambitious vision, the Completing Our Campus Capital Campaign was launched in 2017. The project included the construction of the Athletics and Performing Arts Center (APAC), containing a high school regulation-size gymnasium, a theater, flexible classroom spaces for music and drama, and a rooftop playfield. The original gymnasium was renovated into a two-story space for the CLI, CRL, and a tech lab. These new facilities enhance the school’s ability to foster leadership, innovation, creativity, and support for all students.
The completion of this transformative project reflects the strength of the St. Thomas School community, whose generosity and dedication brought this vision to life.
Challenges and Triumphs (2020–2023)
The Athletics and Performing Arts Center (APAC).
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for STS, as it did for schools worldwide. STS responded quickly by transitioning to remote and hybrid learning models, while continuing to prioritize the needs of its students, staff, and families. Despite the disruptions, the school completed its planned facilities, including the APAC and the CLI, and successfully navigated the evolving landscape of education during the pandemic.
During this period, STS also deepened its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. (DEIB). In 2020, the school established DEIB committees at the board and staff levels, formalizing its dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all members of the community. These initiatives, alongside the school's long-standing focus on character development, have strengthened the school’s reputation as a forward-thinking and inclusive institution.
Honoring a Legacy, Welcoming a New Leader (2023-Present)
In October 2023, head of school Dr. Kirk Wheeler announced his decision to step down after 20 years of transformative leadership. Under his guidance, St. Thomas School flourished, advancing its mission and achieving milestones that will shape its future for years to come.
A nationwide search for his successor was launched, and in March 2024, the school announced the appointment of Peter Lutkoski as the next head of school. Mr. Lutkoski officially assumed the role in July 2025, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the school’s values of character, curriculum, and community.
To honor Dr. Wheeler's extraordinary contributions, the school established the Kirk M. Wheeler Endowment for Faculty and Staff, a lasting tribute to his leadership and dedication. This endowment will continue to support and invest in the educators who make St. Thomas School’s mission a reality.
The transition marks an exciting new chapter for St. Thomas School, as the community looks forward to building on its strong foundation of innovation, excellence, and belonging.
As St. Thomas School celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2026, the school honors the generations who have shaped its history while looking ahead to the opportunities that will define its future.