Welcome Back to School
Let's Get Rolling, 2025 - 2026!
Dear STA Families,
Dear St. Thomas Aquinas School Families,
It is with great joy and gratitude that I welcome you to the 2025–2026 academic year! As I begin my second year as principal, I am filled with excitement for the growth, learning, and faith-filled experiences that lie ahead for our community. Last year was a year of building foundations together, and this year we look forward to strengthening those foundations as we continue to nurture academic excellence, spiritual formation, and a strong sense of community.
Our dedicated teachers and staff are eager to walk alongside your children on their journey of learning and faith. Together, we will strive to inspire curiosity, encourage kindness, and guide our students to live out the values of our Catholic faith. I invite all families to partner with us this year as we continue to build a vibrant and welcoming environment for every student to thrive.
Thank you for entrusting us with the privilege of educating your children. May this new school year be filled with blessings, growth, and joy for every member of our St. Thomas Aquinas family.
With gratitude and anticipation,
Mr. Marco Juarez
Principal
First Day of School Celebration 8/18/25
The teachers have organized a small celebration for the first day of school to welcome our returning and new students. We are all excited to have you back on campus.
Make sure you arrive on time at 7:50 am.
* I, Mr. Juarez, will not be present in the morning for the welcome back celebration due a doctor's appointment. I will see all of you later in the day.
Lunch
- No school lunch during the month of August
- No Uber/Postmates/fast food deliveries for students, only home-packed meals.
Parking
- Do not park in handicap marked locations without a permit.
- Do not block the fire lanes.
- Do not stop in front of the gates for drop off, park your car, and walk your child into the school.
Late Arrivals
- If your child arrives late, they must walk into the office for a tardy pass.
- Do not walk your child to the classroom and interrupt class; teachers are busy.
- Do not start long conversations with teachers during drop off; they are busy caring for all the students under their supervision.
Being Early = Being On Time
Why Daily Attendance and Arriving On Time Matter:
Missed Lessons = Falling Behind: Even one day can mean missing critical instructions and activities, making it harder for your child to catch up.
Impact on Future Success: Consistent attendance is a strong predictor of academic achievement and future opportunities.
Building Resilience: Regular attendance teaches your child the value of perseverance and responsibility—essential skills for success in life.
Stronger Friendships: Daily presence helps your child develop and sustain friendships, which are crucial for emotional and social development.
Healthy Routine: Attending school every day establishes a stable routine, promoting better mental and physical health.
Meet Our New Faculty & Staff
7th Grade Homeroom & Middle School Math
Say hello to Mr. Castañon who will begin his teaching journey with us. Mr. Castañon obtained his Bachelor's degree form Cal Poly Pomona and has been a TA and a Substitute for the past 3 years.
2nd Grade Long Term Substitute
Welcome Mrs. Duarte who continues her journey as an educator with over 25 years of experience in the classroom. Mrs. Duarte obtained her bachelor's degree from Cal State LA. She is returning to our school after teaching here from 1997-1999.
STA 25-26 Directory
ADMINISTRATION:
Fr. Ambrose Udoji
Pastor
Fr. Joseph Guo Chen
Associate Pastor
Mr. Juarez
Principal
Mrs. Armstrong
Vice Principal
Mr. Contreras
Vice Principal
FACULTY:
Mrs. Villaseñor
TK/Kinder Teacher
Ms. Salcedo
1st Grade Teacher
Ms. Ortiz
2nd Grade Teacher
Mrs. Duarte
2nd Grade Long-term Sub
Mrs. Arriaga
3rd Grade Teacher
Mrs. Armstrong
4rd Grade Teacher
Ms. Rodriguez
5th Grade Homeroom, Middle School ELA
Mr. Contreras
6th Grade Homeroom, Middle School Science
Mr. Castañon
7th Grade Homeroom, Middle School Math
Mr. Borgerding
8th Grade Homeroom, Middle School Social Studies
Mr. J.D.
Physical Education and Athletic Director
STAFF:
Ms. Ureña
Office Manager
Mr. Padron
Bookkeeper
Ms. Gutierrez
TK/Kinder Aide
Ms. Marcilla
Extended Care Staff
marcilla@stampkschool.orgMs. Vazquez Office Aide
Schedule Information
Monday - Thursday Schedule:
Friday Schedule:
Elementary School Friday Schedule
.
PE Schedule:
Important Events
Event Information
Calendars
Please Note: Dates and times are subject to change. We will notify you as soon as possible if any adjustments are made.
Reminders
- 1st Day of School is August 18, 2025. (Arrive early to be on time).