STA Weekly News & Events

The theme for the 61st annual Community Gala is, Illuminate the Legacy, Light Up the Night, and we are looking forward to lighting up the night with you on April 25! Click here to see details on tickets, tables, and sponsorships! 

The countdown is on!

Our annual Community Gala is a night of community spirit and impactful giving, and is happening on Saturday, April 25.

We need you to join our volunteer team and play a crucial role in bringing this exciting event to life. Your contribution, big or small, will make a real difference.

Volunteer opportunities are available on Friday, April 24, Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26.

View the options and sign up here!

The Brigade Formal Inspection, typically held in early April, is the culmination of the training, inspection, and drilling conducted by the Cadets throughout the school year. It puts on full display the hard work that the Cadets demonstrate through the preparation of their uniforms, the practicing of the marches and steps, and the memorization of the Basic Cadet Knowledge. It also represents the Academy as a whole and epitomizes its dedication to developing its students into men of character.

BFI will take place on Friday, April 17 for the Upper School, with an early dismissal around 12:00 p.m.  There is NO school for Middle School that day.

We are excited to launch our annual raffle in anticipation of the Community Gala on April 25, 2026. This year features the Power of 200 Raffle, a 50/50 batch format where one winner receives $10,000 for every 200 tickets sold. Each entry costs $100, and as new batches open, more tickets sold lead to more winners and increased support for student activities, faculty development, and facility enhancements at Saint Thomas Academy.

You can purchase tickets for $100 by calling Julie Tell at 651-683-1588 with a debit card, or order tickets here (via mail), and finally visiting the Advancement Office in person.

The drawing will be held during the Gala on April 25, and while you do not need to be present to win, we hope to see you there. Thank you for your continued commitment to our mission and the future of our young men.

Join Us for the Blood Drive!

Monday, April 13 | 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at Saint Thomas Academy

Sign-up HERE 

Please take a moment to consider donating blood to Memorial Blood Center. Your contribution is vital because every few seconds, someone in our community requires a life-saving transfusion. In 2026, the demand for local blood supplies remains high, and your single donation can save up to three lives.

All eligible faculty, staff, students, and parents are invited to participate!

Please remember to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before your appointment.

Congratulations to our Cadets who have artwork selected to be shown at the White Bear Center for the Arts Showcase, Vision & Verse High School Exhibition.

• Sam Dufort '27 - "Renaissance Chicago Lobby" - pastel on paper
• Michael Schneeman '27 - "Humpback Whale" - ceramic
• Peter Schneeman '27 - "Tea" - ceramic

Make plans to attend the award ceremony or visit in the next month to see these works of art on display.

The Vision & Verse Community Reception & Awards Ceremony will take place on Thursday, April 16, 2026, 6:00-8:30 p.m. at White Bear Center for the Arts. There will be a presentation of awards and a reflection on this year’s body of work at 7:00 pm.

The Emerging Young Artists Juried Gallery Show will take place at the Landmark Center Gallery from April 2 until May 7.

Ceramic work by Cory Bustamante will be featured, "Sea Turtle".

Drawing work by Quang Do will be featured, "Uncertainty".

The STA Fathers’ Club presents four annual awards at the Father-Son Banquet. STA Families are invited to speak with their Cadet(s) and nominate individuals for two awards: The Bennett Kotok '23 Legacy Award, recognizing a Senior Cadet whose leadership and character have made a lasting impact. And the Michael Rongitsch Award, recognizing a faculty or staff member who best exemplifies the spirit of the Academy which impacts the development of Cadets. Nominations due by April 17. Make your nominations HERE. 

The Alumni Association’s efforts are a cornerstone of Saint Thomas Academy. A standout example of this impact is the Legacy Scholarship program. We are proud to be one of the only schools in the nation to offer a scholarship to every son and grandson of an alumnus—a promise kept to honor our enduring family legacy and make a world-class education more accessible for our families.

Plan Your Next Gathering with a Purpose

The funds generated through the Alumni Association local partnerships go directly toward these scholarships and Academy programs. To keep this momentum going, we encourage our parents, teams and groups to "think local" when planning social events:

• When planning parent socials, post-game gatherings, or class meetings, please consider hosting them at one of our designated partner establishments.

• By holding your functions at these locations, you are doing more than just socializing—you are actively supporting the funds that provide scholarships for our boys.

You can find the full list of our partner establishments and more details on how these gatherings benefit our Cadets here:

STA Community Partner Locations

Thank you for everything you do to support the mission and the boys of Saint Thomas Academy.

Go Cadets!

Registration is officially OPEN for all summer programs!

SUMMER PREP
Designed for students in grades 6-12 (STA, Visitation, or surrounding schools), Summer Prep offers 4-or 8-week sessions to solidify skills or jump ahead. Earn high school or college credits and get a head start on high school by improving your writing skills, or advancing your placement in Math or World Languages.

Featured New Program: Inspirit AI Lab Join us for a hands-on dive into Artificial Intelligence led by expert practitioners from Stanford and MIT. Students will transition from AI consumers to AI creators, using Python to explore how AI powers self-driving cars, fights pandemics, and fuels tools like ChatGPT. Separate middle and high school sections available for all skill levels.

View the Summer Prep Catalog here!

SUMMER CAMPS
Our youth camps, for boys and girls, offer experiences in arts, activities, and athletics! View the 40+ camp offerings for June & July, and filter by grade or experience, at cadets.com/summer. Middle School Strength & Conditioning is offered through the Summer Camp program.

STRENGTH & CONDITIONING - HIGH SCHOOL
Prepare this summer with our Strength & Conditioning program. Coach Rosga will focus on explosive power, agility, and injury prevention in this optional programming.

HOCKEY SUMMER SKILLS CAMP
Take it to the ice with specialized instruction focusing on high-level puck handling, skating mechanics, and situational awareness.

You can view the full course catalog, AI lab details, and sign up at our summer hub: cadets.com/summer

Late Starts for 2025-26 School Year
Class begins at 9:30 a.m.

DATES:
April 29

CADET MAKER HOURS

The Cadet Maker is open Monday thru Friday from 3 to 5 p.m. and during select activities, athletics, and events. Please contact Martha Parish about volunteer opportunities in the store.

You can also shop online at cadets.com/cadetmaker and stop in to pick up.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

Perfect for any spring break location! 

   

Nike bucket hats, in black or white. 

Lightweight, 100% cotton hat.

Wrap around brim with a well worn feel. 

Unstructured One size fits most. 

$20

Available in-store or at cadets.com/cadetmaker

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

Gift cards are available in all sizes!  You can purchase gift cards online or in the store or your favorite Cadet.

Stop in the Cadet Maker to purchase, or visit cadets.com/cadetmaker.  Click on 'Gift Cards' in the main menu to the top of the page, gift cards can be purchased and printed from the website.  

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

The Cadet Maker is now available ONLINE! 
Are you an alum living in a different state? Maybe a grandparent watching their grandson play on Cadet Broadcasting from Arizona?  You can now have access to great Cadet merchandise without ever having to leave home!  Check us out online at cadets.com/cadetmaker

We’re reimagining the end of the school year for the Class of 2028 in the 2026-27 school year with a brand-new program, May Term.

Think of it as a break from the "sit-at-a-desk" routine. May Term is all about hands-on learning—diving into deep-dive projects, exploring specialized subjects, and getting out of the classroom for some real-world experience.

The Class of 2028 will be the very first group to take part, we want to make sure you and your son have an idea of what to expect before registration starts this fall.

We’re hosting a fun informational session for all sophomore parents and Cadets to walk through the May Term, show off the course options, and explain how it all works.

• When: April 15 @ 7:00 p.m.

• RSVP Here!

Come hear from our academic team about how May Term is going to make junior year one to remember. We can't wait to see you there!

Make sure to visit this page and bookmark it.  Important dates, deadlines, and more will be shared on this page throughout the year.  

• college application prep
• military LEAD process
• community service requirements
• and the retreat

Still looking for a summer job?

The Inver Wood Maintenance team is looking for staff for the 2026 season.  Inver Wood Golf Course is a 27 hole municipal golf course located in Inver Grove Heights.  As a team member you will help perform all maintenance functions on the course which includes operating specialized mowing equipment, along with  setting up the golf course for daily play. 

We work a “flexible” set schedule so you can plan out your summer activities.  We start early in the morning, 5:30 am, which leaves your whole afternoon free.  Pay starts at $15.01 up to $24.88 with experience.  Must be 16 years of age with a valid driver’s license in order to start. 

Contact:

Joel Metz

Golf Course Superintendent                        

Inver Wood Golf Course

651.554.0132

jmetz@ighmn.gov 

Now hiring for Fully Promoted!

Position: Part time (after school, 3-5:00 p.m.) shipping/receiving position, starting at $16.50 per hour with a pay increase possible after 60 days depending on performance.  

Fully Promoted is an STA alumni owned, branded apparel and promotional products company located about one-mile from school in Mendota Heights.

Please contact Bill Reilly class of '85, at bill.reilly@fullypromoted.com, or 651-251-2246 if interested.

---------------------

Now hiring for the new location of Lava Island.  Click here to apply.

It is hard to believe that we are heading into the final stretch of the school year! Spring brings such a special energy to our school building - longer days, busy classrooms, and so many moments that remind us just how much our middle schoolers have grown. 

These last weeks are filled with meaningful milestones, especially for our eighth graders. Final projects, performances, presentations, celebrations,  and special traditions that reflect months of hard work. It is truly a joy to watch our students shine and take pride in their accomplishments. 

Thank you for the countless ways you support your son(s) and school community. Your encouragement at home, presence at events, and partnership throughout the year make a tremendous difference. We couldn’t do this without you - YOU are what makes STA such a special place.

As we look ahead, please be sure to mark your calendars for the important events and celebrations coming up. We can’t wait to celebrate alongside you and finish the year on a joyful note! 

Tomorrow, Friday, April 10 is an optional Cadet spirit wear out of uniform with a $5.00 donation. 

IMPORTANT DATES
Please mark your calendars for the important dates coming up this Spring. These final months of school will be marked with special schedules and events you will not want to miss - please subscribe to the calendar for the latest updates.

Mark your calendars for these upcoming events:
Friday, April 10 - Optional Cadet spirit wear out of uniform with $5.00 donation. 
Friday, April 17 - No School for Middle School, BFI in Upper School
Wednesday, April 29 - Late Start, classes begin at 9:30 a.m. 
Friday, May 1 - Formal Uniform, Archbishop’s Review

No School Friday, April 17 for Middle School Only
Upper School will be participating in BFI on Friday, April 17 from 8:00 - 11:30 a.m.  This is a very important, formal event for all upper school students to present themselves to guest military inspectors.  They will be quizzed and inspected by military personnel.  Middle School will not be in session due to BFI and middle school students should not be on campus. Students should check with coaches about practice and/or game schedules for that day.

Middle School House Inspection
Shine those shoes, sew on missing buttons, and get your hair cut! On Monday, April 20, the Middle School will hold their annual House Formal Inspection.  Guest inspectors from STA will meet with the Houses and conduct a haircut and uniform inspection.  House Captains will spend the next few weeks preparing their Houses for inspection and will give students an inspection checklist.  Students who receive a passing score on inspection will be able to move to spring uniform. Sweaters are not required for House Inspections. 

Eighth Grade Families: Graduation - Save the Date!
Eighth Grade Graduation will be held on Thursday, May 28 at 1:10 p.m. in Holtz Gymnasium. More information will follow. 

Year End Field Trips - Grades 6-8
We are busy planning our end of the year celebration.  On Friday, May 29, the 8th graders will go to Valleyfair for the day (all students must ride the bus to and from Valleyfair). The 6th and 7th grade will enjoy a day out bowling and be dismissed early, around noon.  Permission slips will be sent out soon. 

Course Registration
Students worked with Mrs. Nonnemacher to register for 2026-2027 courses. You may review your son's course selections by logging into Powerschool and selecting Class Registrations in the left hand column. This option will remain available to students and families until Tuesday, April 21.  The Course Catalog provides full details on course offerings.

Attention Swimmers - A Message from Blackline Swimming Development Program
As your season wraps up, we’d love to be a resource for any swimmers who are interested in continuing their development this spring and summer. Our program focuses on building strong technique, confidence, and a positive team experience—while still allowing flexibility for other sports and activities. Please see this flyer for more information.

The Student Services team features the following weekly resource from Mrs. Schultz, Mr. Larson, Mr. Moe, Ms. VanDiver, and Mrs. Schneider. 

This week we are sharing about AI and teen mental health.  The resource highlights how "AI companions" are taking the place of actual people in teens' lives, and the dangers associated with this trend.

https://www.slj.com/story/Teens-AI-Mental-Health

Make plans to stop by Lucky's 13 in Mendota to take part in a fun designer purse & Yeti Bingo event!  Bingo is run by the STA Alumni Association Charitable Gambling. 

Thursday, April 16
7:00 p.m.

Not only will you have a chance to win a designer purse or Yeti cooloer, but you'll also be supporting Saint Thomas Academy and contributing to the success of our students through scholarships and school programs. It's a fun-filled event with plenty of chances to win, so don't miss out!

Lucky's 13 is located at 1352 Sibley Memorial Hwy, Mendota.

Join us for an afternoon of exceptional music at the VISTA Orchestra concert this Sunday, April 12, at 4:00 p.m. Our talented musicians have been working tirelessly to prepare a fantastic repertoire, and we are thrilled to host the performance in DeSales on the Visitation campus. It promises to be a wonderful showcase of our students' dedication and artistry, and we look forward to seeing the Saint Thomas Academy community come together to support our fine arts program!

Join us at the diamond for an afternoon of great baseball! Check out the new batting cages and plaza when the Cadets host Simley at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, May 1. We’d love to see your family in the stands!RSVP here!

Come out to the turf and experience the "fastest game on two feet!" Join the Cadets when they host Hudson at 7 p.m. Meet the coaches, players, and more! RSVP here!

We are hosting our annual middle school Admissions event, Explore the Middle School on Wednesday, April 22.  See the information below and share with those who may have an interest in learning more!

Our middle school offers a high-energy, challenging academic experience tailored to the way boys learn in grades 6–8. Our teachers are experts in what makes boys tick, pairing core classes in math and science with electives they are excited to take, like Minnesota Sports History. 

You and your son are invited to attend our Explore the Middle School event on Wednesday, April 22. Drop-in between 5:00-7:00 p.m. to meet faculty, current students, parents, tour campus, and see some of our offerings up close and personal. RSVP here!

Join us on May 3 at the University of St. Thomas for an unforgettable evening of faith, football, and brotherhood. We are thrilled to welcome back Father Nate Wills '95, chaplain to the Notre Dame football team!

Fr. Nate will take us behind the scenes of one of the most iconic traditions in sports—from locker room prayers to the "Play Like a Champion Today" spirit—sharing how the lessons of the gridiron help us grow as men of faith.

Event Details

• When: May 3 | 5:00 p.m. Registration & Social | 6:00 p.m. Dinner

• Where: University of St. Thomas

• Cost: $75 per person

• Attire: Class A uniforms (Upper School) or sweaters and ties (Middle School).

This is a wonderful opportunity for fathers and sons to celebrate the faith and family values that define our community.

Sign up here!

The Mothers' Club is a great way to get involved and meet other moms. Please join us at one of our many events and volunteer opportunities!

First Mother/Guardian & Son Mass | All are Welcome
Mother/Guardian & Son Masses for the school year will be held the second Friday of the month at 7:15 a.m., with the exception of the Feast Days or days that conflict on the school calendar.  Mothers/guardians and their sons of all faiths are welcome and encouraged to attend. Please contact Anne Olson with questions.

Eucharistic Adoration 
Eucharistic Adoration is a time of quiet prayer in front of our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. The exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will follow the Mother/Son Mass at 7:45 a.m. each month, with the reposition of the the Blessed Sacrament at 3 p.m. You don't have to "do" anything: just come and pray or take some quiet time for reflection.  Sign up here!

Eucharistic Adoration is open to anyone of any faith! Please contact Christina Crow with questions or to get involved.

The Fathers’ Club is an organization that includes all dads and male guardians of Saint Thomas Academy Cadets. By the nature of your son attending Saint Thomas Academy, you are a member of the Fathers' Club!  We’re excited you’ve joined us for the upcoming school year!

Email us at fathersclub@cadets.com if you are interested in becoming more active with our Executive Team!

Fathers' Club Calendar Feed:

Please remember to sign up for the automated Fathers' Club Calendar Feed.  Use this link to access the calendar!

Important Upcoming Dates (next 60 days)

Be sure to click here to add Fathers’ Club events to your calendar.

Spotlight Events (Grilling burgers for our Cadets and STA community)
Join us in celebrating our teams, clubs, and activities all year long with food and fun!

If you know of an STA team or club to Spotlight, please send us a note.  Your son's coaches, team captains and activities leaders also have more information regarding upcoming Spotlight events. Proceeds from the Burger Stand at Football games are used to help fund our Spotlight Events for our Cadets. 

If you like to grill, and would like to volunteer for upcoming Spotlight Events, please email fathersclub@cadets.com

2025 - 26 Saint Thomas Academy Fathers' Club Board:

• President – Stephen Kelly
• Past President Advisor – Mark Korf
• Vice President – Conan DeWitt
• Treasurer – Conan DeWitt 
• Secretary – Adam Bakeman 
• Communications Chairman – Tom Horton 
• Advisor - Jack Koegel 
• Annual STA Car Show - John Gainor
• Aquinas Experience Chairman - Conan DeWitt
• Burger Stand/Spotlight Chairmen – Mark Fotsch and Grill Master Jason Kelecic 
• Eagle Projects - OPEN
• Father/Son Banquet Chairman – Jeff Wright 
• First Friday Mass/Hospitality Chair – Peter Nguyen 
• Mother/Son Dance Chairmen – John Gainor and Adam Bakeman 
• Trivia Night Chairmen – Mark Korf and Brian Convery 

Did you know that Saint Thomas Academy offers over 75+ sports teams, clubs, and activities for your son?  From day one we have encouraged boys to "get involved" and "try new things"!  

We make this recommendation as it's a great way for boys to try new things (of course), make new friends or expand their social connections, and to supplement resumes for college.

Click here to see a list of many of our clubs & activities and encourage your son to try something new!

For questions, email De Hanuman (Associate Athletics Director) at dhanuman@cadets.com