St. Thomas School logo with acorn icon and wordmark
A group of young students, dressed in school uniforms, are standing together outdoors on a sunny day with trees and buildings visible in the background.

Learning Environment

We have thoughtfully crafted a learning environment in which all members of the school community feel secure in taking risks, asking questions, and exploring new alternatives.

This learning environment is characterized by:

  • A state-of-the-art facility built from the ground up according to the latest research on child development and learning theory.
  • Small class sizes that allow for a dynamic and personalized learning experience where students have plenty of opportunity to interact with their teachers and peers.
  • Talented educators that bring energy, passion, creativity, and expertise to their classrooms. Inspirational teaching begets inspired learning!
  • Parent involvement and partnership in school life—an honored tradition at STS—results in a strong community bonded by mutual respect, responsibility, and collaboration.

Our Building

A child’s learning environment plays a huge and often overlooked role in educational achievement. We are fortunate to have a new, state-of-the-art facility built from the ground up according to the latest research on child development and learning theory. Abundant fresh air and natural light are just two reasons our building earned Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED© for Schools Program.
 

Sun icon representing natural light in STS learning environments

Children learn best with an abundance of natural light. Ingenious light shafts and 28 skylights saturate interior spaces even on the cloudiest of days.

Desk icon representing intentional furniture choices in STS learning spaces

Physical spaces have been intentionally designed to meet the learning needs of different aged children providing a comforting scale and sense of safety.

Pillow icon representing comfortable, cozy seating in STS classrooms

Cozy corners and lofts, floor and table lamps, and an abundance of natural materials make classrooms and plazas feel like home.

Window icon representing ventilation in STS classrooms

Ventilation levels far exceed code requirements as fresh air is brought deep into the school via unique air chambers and openable windows.

Ear icon representing thoughtful acoustics in STS learning spaces

Environmental sounds are kept to a minimum by utilizing natural convection currents to circulate heated or cooled air.

Person stretching icon representing movement and exercise built into the STS school day

Recess is essential to every child's health and learning. Play and climbing equipment, artificial turf soccer field, basketball courts, and plenty of wide open space allow room for exercise, play, and unstructured learning opportunities.

Color wheel icon representing intentional color use in STS classrooms

Elements of color that unite various grade levels are carefully balanced by natural color and wood tones, creating a calming environment.

Plant icon representing nature and the STS outdoor classroom

Gardens, bio-swale, and a council ring provide students with an outdoor classroom and rich opportunities to connect to nature.