Aquinas High School

History: Aquinas High School was founded in 1955 as Aquinas Hall - an all boys Catholic High School. In 1971, the student body of St. Bernadine's High School, an all girl's Catholic high school, merged with Aquinas Hall to become Aquinas High School. Since its founding, Aquinas High School has prided itself on educating the whole person through a series of experiences that develop the spiritual, academic, physical and social facets of its young men and women.

Philosophy: Aquinas High School is a coeducational Catholic High School located in San Bernardino and is available to students throughout the San Bernardino Diocese. Aquinas offers education of the whole person through experiences that incorporate the spiritual, academic, athletic and social aspects of development. Students are challenged to develop their full potential by pursuing excellence in the coursework outlined to meet their needs. A deepening of faith experiences is provided through participation with parents, faculty and staff in the Eucharist and other liturgical experiences.

Academics are a channel to acquire information, develop critical thinking skills, explore decision-making processes and appreciate learning as a lifelong goal. The athletic program not only aids in the individual's physical development but also fosters teamwork. Other extra-curricular activities provide opportunities to participate more fully in the social life of the school community.

The Ministerial model of Jesus Christ is the philosophical basis for outreach and interaction at Aquinas High School. Respect and concern for others is the main thrust of this Christian community of believers.

Academic Ethics: The Aquinas faculty and administration believe in academic honesty, and the principles of the honor code. Students are expected to do their own homework, to test without external resources, and to submit original work for all assignments. Aquinas students are also expected to deny all requests to copy from their own work. Violation of this principle is subject to both disciplinary and academic penalties.

ACCREDITATION: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), Western Catholic Education Association.

Fall 2008 Enrollment: High School, 360; Seniors, 85

Faculty: 26 Full-Time, 2 Part-Time; 12:1 Student/Teacher ratio; 4 Doctorate Degree, 8 Masters Degrees; 12 years average teaching experience

Honors (h) and advanced placement (AP) options are available in the following courses.

SAT Scores: In the 2007-2008 academic year 90% of the Senior class took the SAT with an average score of 1570.

Transcripts include both weighted and unweighted GPA. A rank is available for both weighted and unweighted GPA's.

College: From 2001-2008 97% of Aquinas graduates have gone on to post-secondary education with 83% attending four-year colleges and universities and 13% attending two-year colleges