Did you know that Saint Thomas Academy stands as the only all-male Catholic military high school in Minnesota. Founded in 1885 by Archbishop John Ireland, Saint Thomas Academy began as Saint Thomas Seminary. Its mission was to provide theological and university studies for young men.
Saint Thomas Academy transformed into a U.S. Army school in 1905. It later became part of the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps in 1916. By 1922, the academic department split forming the College of St. Thomas and St. Thomas Military Academy.
In 1965 Saint Thomas Academy moved to its current location in Mendota Heights. It separated from St. Thomas College. A middle school was added in 1971. The boarding school program closed in 1974. In 2015 Saint Thomas Academy separated from the JROTC program. The military curriculum was retained. The first sixth-grade class joined in 2017.
Saint Thomas Academy has many traditions. Each year a senior receives the rank of Cadet Colonel. This student gets the Fleming Saber. The Corps of Cadets undergoes inspection by the National Guard each spring. The Brigade Formal Inspection involves uniform checks and questions about the school’s history. A high score allows students to remove their ties. The Archbishop of Minneapolis and St. Paul reviews the Corps. The students march around the track in their formal uniforms.
Saint Thomas Academy excels in sports and activities. It was a member of the Classic Suburban Conference. The academy participates in many Minnesota State High School League sports. They also have co-curricular activities like band chess team and debate. VISTA Theater Company is also very popular. They also have a math team, Quiz Bowl, and Knowledge Bowl. There is also a table tennis club. The Experimental Vehicle Team is also present. Mock Trial and rifle and drill teams are also present.
A large percentage of students participate in sports. Saint Thomas Academy has won many state championships. These include football, soccer, and hockey. Alpine skiing and swimming are also included. The Saint Thomas Academy also has basketball, rifle team, and baseball titles. Golf and tennis are also options. Track and field is also available.
Many notable alumni have passed through these halls. These include Joseph K Bratton a lieutenant general. Christopher Cox was a former chairman of the SEC. Tom Emmer is a U.S. representative. Vince Flynn was a famous author. Alfred Gruenther was a general. Richard E Fleming was a Medal of Honor recipient. Tom Malchow was a swimmer. Ben Tracy is a journalist. Michael W Wright was a businessman.
Saint Thomas Academy boasts a low student-faculty ratio. The average class size is small. Most faculty hold advanced degrees. 100% of graduates are accepted to post-secondary institutions. The average ACT score is high. The school welcomes students of all faiths. A significant percentage of students receive financial aid. Cadets devote thousands of hours to community service. The middle school uses a unique house system. Saint Thomas Academy offers many co-curricular activities.
Saint Thomas Academy’s theater program has won many awards. The school has a rich athletic history. The Experimental Vehicle Team has won national and international championships. The campus is large. It provides spaces for learning and growth. The Innovation Center offers the latest technology. Vincent J Flynn Hall provides athletic and fine arts facilities.
Saint Thomas Academy develops young men of character. It prepares them for leadership in college and life. The values and traditions shape well-rounded individuals.