Our son goes to St. Anthony, and I have to say it has exceeded my expectations. Even the first day, when my wife and I took a tour, there was a palpable sense of joy in the school.
Leadership sets the tone, and Sister Linda, the principal, is a "servant-leader" who sets an example of true humility that shows her sincere faith in Christ. She works long hours, attends nearly every event, remembers the childrens' names, and is well-loved by the students. The rest of the staff follow suit, making for an environment that mirrors the one we try to create at home.
The educators our son has had have provided the right level of academic challenge. His Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Redburn, was voted the Best Teacher in Renton earlier this year.
We had Mrs. Racey, and really enjoyed her style. Students are held to a high standard, and each student is met at his or her level of ability. I have never seen negative labels used; in fact one of her mantras is "Kids don't all learn to read at the same pace, but they ALL eventually get there". It is a supportive and redemptive approach, with an expectation to work hard and do your best.
Students at St. Anthony are exposed to the right things: servant-leaders who model Jesus Christ, respect for our flag and country, and respect for people of different economic and ethnic backgrounds. Likewise they are appropriately shielded from the wrong things: hostility toward people of faith, government-forced political correctness, mediocre academic expectations, lax discipline, sexual vulgarity, and perverse sex ed classes fueled by political groups.
Their building is well-maintained, but not fancy. The staff have learned to do a lot with a little. The beauty is what's inside, and the result are polite, well-rounded, whip-smart, caring kids who are a gift to the local community. I highly recommend St. Anthony to any parent wishing to provide their child with a solid education, with focus on traditional academics and values.
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