Academics

Student achievement is monitored consistently using classroom tests and standardized assessments which include the IOWA Test of Basic Skills, DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy) and Accelerated Reader Enterprise Edition. Our 2012 ITBS scores ranked STM students in the top 15% of the nation in reading in every grade tested. Math scores were in the top 15% in grades four and eight. Scott Foresman “Reading Street” series used in kindergarten through grade five features selections which are 50% nonfiction, helping students to apply reading skills to fascinating and challenging material as well as building background knowledge.

Our curriculum is supplemented by instruction in Art, Music, PE, and use of Technology. In Art class, students utilize a variety of materials to create individual works of art as well as learn about art history and artists. Music class affords the students the opportunity to learn music theory, performance and use of a variety of hands on instruments. Physical Education class promotes physical development in both fine and gross motor skills as well as learning cooperative team building that will be useful throughout life. Healthy habits are also encouraged during the instruction. Envisions Math develops math concepts and mastery of basic facts through a spiraling curriculum that emphasizes the use of manipulatives to build understanding. Practice and enrichment activities in reading, math and social studies are available for home or school use via the student's login to Pearson Successnet.

Grades 6-8 (junior high): Instruction in reading, language arts and math is geared to the ability of each student, with accelerated classes available. Holt Mathematics 2010 emphasizes pre-algebra skills and real world problem solving. Students in the accelerated eighth grade math class cover a full year of Algebra 1 before graduating. 120 Netbooks are available for each junior high students’ use at school to allow them to access reading, math, social studies and science texts as well as for note taking and projects. An Edline weblocker allows students to easily store work for access off site. Spanish is taught using web-based Rosetta Stone, allowing each child to progress at his or her own pace.

For three consecutive years, St. Thomas More has been awarded the Governor's Award for Excellence in Science Education, one of three elementary schools in Cincinnati to be so designated.

Technology is integrated into instruction and used with online texts and assessments, interactive whiteboards in all classrooms, a computer lab, laptop carts, netbooks, iPads and wireless access throughout our facilities. Faculty is also engaged in ongoing professional development to enhance the use of technology in their classroom. Our newly renovated library is completely automated, with catalog and circulation information available online. The school cafeteria utilizes E-Lunchroom with an online website for parents to access account information and detailed records.