Saint Thomas High School

Founded in 1900, Saint Thomas High School stands as a testament to enduring educational values. It’s the second oldest continuously operating private high school in Houston, preceded only by Incarnate Word Academy. Saint Thomas High School isn’t just a school. It’s a living legacy, shaped by the Basilian Fathers within the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. The school’s story began not on this picturesque spot along Buffalo Bayou, but at the intersection of Franklin Avenue and Caroline Street. Initially known as St. Thomas College, the school faced an early challenge when a hurricane damaged its first home. Undeterred, the Basilian Fathers, led by Rev. Nicholas Roche, relocated to Capitol and Main. A few years later, they secured a permanent location at Austin and Hadley, establishing Houston’s first College Preparatory School for boys. In 1940, thanks to the vision of Father T.P. O’Rourke, Saint Thomas High School moved to its current location. This move wasn’t just a change of address. It was a commitment to growth and a recognition of Houston’s burgeoning importance on the world stage. The campus itself is a blend of history and modernity. The distinguished Texas Cordova Shell Stone buildings house a fine arts center, a computer lab, a well-stocked library, and a competition gymnasium. Beyond academics, Saint Thomas High School recognizes the importance of physical development. A baseball field and stadium provide spaces for athletic pursuits. A quiet chapel offers a place for reflection and spiritual growth. Saint Thomas High School’s location, near the intersection of Memorial Drive and Shepherd, places it just three miles from Downtown Houston. This proximity to the heart of the city reflects the school’s integral role in Houston’s vibrant community. The school’s namesake, St. Thomas Aquinas, the patron saint of students and education, embodies the institution’s dedication to intellectual and spiritual growth. Over the years, Saint Thomas High School has educated men who have gone on to achieve national and international recognition in various fields, including statesmanship, religion, the arts, and business. The school’s commitment to preparing young men for lives of purpose continues to shape its present and future.