St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School strives to develop the whole person, made in the image and likeness of God. We address the growth of the Soul (Spiritual), Mind (Academic) and Heart (Community) of all our students. These various activities allow us to expand our support of the students’ development beyond the classroom. Clubs and some activities vary in availability from year to year. *Please note, additional fees may apply for some programs.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Each fall our 8th graders participate in a Student Council Election. The elected officers work with the principal to support student and student-run charitable activities.
Faculty nominate 7th and 8th grade students to join the National Junior Honor Society based on academics and character in accordance with the 5 pillars of the society. A special induction Mass is held to honor those students.
Young men in grades 6-8 who have been trained in their parish can serve as Altar Servers at school Masses. As part of our service to our parish, they are also sometimes asked to serve at funerals.
Young women in grades 6-8 can serve as Junior Sacristans at school Masses. Junior Sacristans are trained in the care of the sacristy and sacred vessels and what is needed to prepare for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
Musical Opportunities and Activities
The school sponsors a Middle School musical annually. Middle school students may audition to perform or act as stage crew in a full-length musical drama production in the second semester. Rehearsals take place after school.
Students in grades 4-8 may audition for a place in the Aquinas Choir, which provides vocal and instrumental accompaniment primarily at school Masses. The choir also performs two concerts at the school, participates in the Diocesan Music Festival, and takes a special trip to compete in choir competitions hosted by local amusement parks. This is a serious musical endeavor requiring before or after school practice and regular attendance.
Band is offered at the beginner and advanced levels to any interested students beginning in 4th grade. Families pay a quarterly fee to the Garwood Whaley Music Program, a highly respected diocesan-wide band program. Students meet with the band director for sectional lessons and full band practice once a week. Both the beginner and advanced bands perform two concerts a year, in December and May. The advanced band competes at the Diocesan Band Festival in February. Band members are also called upon to play at special events such as Grandparents’ Day and school Masses. Seventh and eighth grade students are eligible to participate in the Honor Band at Bishop Ireton High School after nomination by the band director.
