The Saint Thomas Academy Uniform

For more than 100 years, ST(M)A Cadets have worn a distinctive cadet/military uniform. For all Cadets, past and present, the uniform is a source of pride and a symbol of excellence. However, not only does the uniform represent ST(M)A and the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, but it represents one of the oldest and largest United States Army JROTC program in the nation.

Therefore, Cadets are taught to wear the uniform correctly on and off campus. When Cadets are in uniform and off the campus, the public, including veterans and alumni, will draw conclusions about STA based on the appearance of our students. It is not uncommon for a veteran or alumnus to correct a Cadet on-site or report him to the school. We ask parents to assist us in instilling a sense of pride in the uniform and what it stands for... both on and off campus.

~ LTC Michael DePulgio (Ret.), Commandant of Cadets

Uniform Policy

Saint Thomas Academy is a military institution where discipline is enforced and students are required to meet the military standard for wearing the uniform. A neat and well-groomed appearance is fundamental to building pride and esprit while simultaneously honoring the many distinguished alumni of this institution.

The faculty, staff, and senior cadet leaders are responsible to ensure that cadets present a neat and orderly appearance. Cadets must wear the uniform correctly and completely at all times on and off campus; it may not be worn in parts.

When civilian attire is authorized for special events, cadets will wear a dress shirt with collar, tie, slacks (not cargo pants), and dress shoes. When the Class B1 uniform is worn, the authorized civilian attire is an open-collared, short-sleeved shirt without a tie.

UNIFORM GUIDE - see photographs below

Class A - Blue blouse coat, gray trousers, white shirt, tie, and black shoes. This uniform is worn for special events and reviews.

Class A1 - Identical to Class A, except that cadets wear the white dress trousers. This uniform is the most formal uniform and is worn during the Military Ball and Spring reviews.

Class A2 - White military shirt and white trousers. The blouse coat is not worn. This uniform is worn for all-school masses and other special events.

Class B – Long-sleeve blue shirt with tie and gray pants. This is the normal duty uniform for school between October and May.

Class B1 - Blue shirt (sleeves rolled up above the elbow) and no tie. This uniform is worn as the duty uniform during August-October and May-June.

Beginning with the Class of 2011,  STA is returning to a mandatory winter coat, hat and gloves. The coat will be worn by freshmen as the official outer garment as the corps transitions into ties (22 October). If the weather requires an outer garment prior to 22 October, freshmen may wear the black coat or an STA hoodie/jacket. Gloves will be black or blue. Gloves and hats with the STA logo are permitted.

Hair - Hair will be neatly groomed. Length will not be ragged, unkempt, or extreme. Hair will not touch the ears, collar, or eyebrows. Sideburns will be neatly trimmed and not extend below the lowest part of the exterior ear opening. Hair will not be colored or highlighted.

Face - The face will be clean-shaven. Cadets will shave prior to arrival at school. Waivers for skin disorders are granted with parental note.

Miscellaneous - Decorative jewelry, bracelets, key chains, earrings, neck chains, pins, and buttons are not authorized for wear in uniform. A single ring and watch are acceptable. Cadets are expected to maintain good daily grooming and hygiene. Tattoos are not permitted.

Class A - Blue blouse coat, gray trousers, white shirt, tie, and black shoes. This uniform is worn for special events and reviews.

Class A1 - Identical to Class A, except that cadets wear the white dress trousers. This uniform is the most formal uniform and is worn during the Military Ball and Spring reviews.

Class A2 - White military shirt and white trousers. The blouse coat is not worn. This uniform is worn for all-school masses and other special events.

Class B – Long-sleeve blue shirt with tie and gray pants. This is the normal duty uniform for school between October and May.

Class B1 - Blue shirt (sleeves rolled up above the elbow) and no tie. This uniform is worn as the duty uniform during August-October and May-June.