St. Thomas the Apostle School provides well-rounded education to students

Each day, the dedicated faculty and staff at St. Thomas the Apostle School, Old Bridge, work to provide their students with solid foundations in academics and faith.

“St. Thomas offers challenging, well-rounded educational experiences with a focus on both intellectual and moral growth,” said principal Annette Pioppo. “We offer smaller class sizes, which allow for more personalized attention, which is beneficial in fostering each student’s academic potential. We encourage a family-oriented atmosphere where students, teachers, and families know each other well, creating a strong sense of belonging.”

Students begin each day with prayer and a reflection on the school’s selected Saint of the Month. Beyond the core academic subjects, the school’s curriculum includes specials like physical education, art, music, Spanish and digital technology. Students also participate in hands-on science labs and digital technology workshops, allowing them to delve into STEM with activities like coding.

After the school day is over, students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, like choir, an art club, chess club, rosary club, athletics, instruments and band – as well as a spring musical and school newspaper.

Across the board, students receive individualized support, said Pioppo.

“We support the individual strengths and talents of each student,” she said. “Whether academic, athletic, artistic, or social, we ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed and grow in their unique way.”

As a Catholic institution, faith is also a core component of the student experience.

“As a Catholic school, our faith initiatives permeate every part of the day, beginning with prayer and reflection and ending our day with prayer,” said Pioppo. “Our students actively participate in liturgies, prayer services, and faith-based discussions, fostering a deep sense of purpose in their education. They understand that what they are learning extends beyond academics – it’s about growing in faith, virtue, and character.”

For Suzanne Hoos, St. Thomas the Apostle has been a big part of her life – both during her own time as a student there as a member of the class of 1966, and now as a seventh and eighth grade language arts teacher who has called the school her professional home for 52 years. 

“St. Thomas the Apostle is more than just a school–it’s a community built on faith, tradition, and heart,” she said. “As both a graduate and a teacher who began her career here at just 20, I’ve had the unique privilege of experiencing the school from both sides. There’s a sense of belonging that you feel the moment you walk through the doors. Students are known by name, supported not only academically but spiritually and emotionally as well.”

Hoos emphasized the small class sizes and dynamic approaches to learning as being key components of the school’s success in preparing students for what’s next. 

“St. Thomas the Apostle School isn’t just preparing students for the next grade–it’s preparing them for life, and for the world beyond these walls,” she said. “That’s a gift I’ve experienced personally, and it’s one I’m honored to help pass on to the next generation.”

Fellow teacher Mary Conaghan has taught math at St. Thomas for more than a decade, and has four children who graduated from the school. 

“St. Thomas is a Blue Ribbon recipient school, which demonstrates not only its academic rigor, but its well-roundedness in sports, art, drama, journalism, and community service,” she said, adding her appreciation of the education her own children received there. “I strongly feel that St. Thomas the Apostle is a pillar of not only Catholic education, but spirituality for non-Catholics.”

She also noted the engagement of the greater school community, highlighting the recent installation of a new gym floor that was made possible through the support of students, parents, teachers, alumni and parishioners.

When it comes to current students, the family atmosphere at St. Thomas is a big part of what makes them excited to come to school each day.

“The best part about my school is the excellent teachers and my supportive peers,” said eighth grader Christopher Abenante. “Our school is very friendly and the teachers make sure you feel welcomed and safe each and every day.”

Seventh grader Makayla Cabangon shared her appreciation for how much teachers care about their students.

“St. Thomas School is not only a special and safe place for students, but is also a place to grow academically and spiritually,” she said. “The teachers care for their students and only hope for the best for them, helping make learning fun and interesting.”

Vice principal and third grade teacher Diane Zarate emphasized how hard teachers work to support their students.

“Teachers at St. Thomas the Apostle are dedicated to creating an engaging and nurturing classroom environment,” said Zarate. “They focus on each student's individual needs, encouraging creativity and critical thinking. This makes learning enjoyable and meaningful.”

Katie Lenning is an alumna of St. Thomas, and her three children are now students at the school.

“The leadership and teaching staff go above and beyond to ensure every student receives the best education and school experience,” she said. “St. Thomas the Apostle excels at incorporating academics and religion into (its) daily curriculum.”

She said that the school has exceeded expectations from her perspective as a parent, adding, “I look forward to watching my three children continue to grow and thrive while creating core memories.”

The school’s alumni network is also strong – as evidenced by alumni who teach and send their children there. 

“St. Thomas has a long and proud history of academic and religious achievement, providing a sense of tradition and continuity, as well as a strong alumni network,” she said. “Students are part of a larger community that extends well beyond graduation.”