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Arts. For All Seasons.

Campaign Priorities

The Arts. For All Seasons. campaign is a transformative initiative aimed at revitalizing the fine arts at St. Thomas More High School. By focusing on three core priorities—Theater Modernization, Enriched Curriculum, and the establishment of an Endowed Fine Arts Department Advisor—this campaign will empower our students to explore their creative potential, build a vibrant arts community, and strengthen the cultural fabric of STM.


1. Theater Modernization 

 
St. Thomas More High School's auditorium, originally built in 1967, has served the school well for decades. However, to meet the needs of a modern fine arts program, significant upgrades are necessary.  
 
Our theater’s aging equipment and outdated infrastructure lag behind that of local competitors, impacting both performance quality and the overall audience experience. 
 
Key issues include frequent audio malfunctions during performances, insufficient lighting, and outdated stage equipment. To address these challenges, we plan to invest $350,000 in state-of-the-art audiovisual and theatrical technology, ensuring our students have the tools they need to shine. 
 
Beyond technical upgrades, the theater’s physical environment requires attention. This includes replacing all 564 seats, polishing the floors, and installing a light lock vestibule to enhance the audience's experience. Additional improvements, such as new acoustic panels, carpeting, and an ADA-approved stage lift, will create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. The total cost for these architectural enhancements is estimated at $539,175. 
 
With guidance from Catalyst Construction and Plunkett Raysich Architects, STM has developed detailed plans for a transformed theater. We are working closely with our community to finalize these designs and bring our vision to life. (See theater renderings here.)
 
 

2. Enriched Curriculum

 
Over the past five years, fine arts enrollment at St. Thomas More High School has declined significantly, despite having passionate instructors. During the 2018-19 school year, 59% of the student body participated in fine arts courses. In 2023-24, however, enrollment dropped to just 38%, even as the student body grew. 
 
To address this decline, STM surveyed students and discovered high interest in courses blending art and technology. Students expressed a desire to learn digital arts, photography, and diverse dance styles such as ballet, hip-hop, and Latin. 
 
In response, STM has introduced three exciting new courses for the 2024-25 school year: 

  1. Intro to Digital Arts – This course empowers students to explore digital expression, covering photo editing, digital rendering, and more. 
  1. Dance 101 – Students will explore multiple dance styles, building agility and celebrating individuality. 
  1. Modernized Digital Photography – STM's photography course now focuses on DSLR cameras and photo editing, modernizing the curriculum for today’s creative needs. 
  1. Music Ministry – Designed to cultivate a deep understanding and practical application of music within the context of ministry and worship, this course empowers students to use music as a powerful tool for spiritual expression, community building, and enhancing the worship experience. 

The changes have already shown promising results, with strong enrollment in each course. Partnerships with local arts organizations, including Danceworks and other respected nonprofits, ensure students receive expert instruction and real-world experience. 
 
Investing in these programs required significant capital, including the purchase of DSLR cameras and advanced computers. To maintain and enhance the program, ongoing support for software subscriptions and educational field trips is needed. 
 

3. Establishing a Fine Arts Advisor

 
Fine arts play a vital role in the St. Thomas More High School experience, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and emotional growth. An innovative fine arts curriculum not only enriches students' academic journey but also enhances their mental well-being, helping them engage more deeply in their education. 
 
To fully realize the potential of a thriving fine arts program, STM aims to establish a dedicated Fine Arts Department Advisor. This new faculty position, funded by the "Arts. For All Seasons." campaign, will provide strategic leadership, ensuring the long-term growth and excellence of STM’s fine arts offerings. 
 
The Fine Arts Advisor will lead Create MORE!, STM’s comprehensive plan to elevate the arts over the next three to five years. This role will focus on: 

  1. Developing a curriculum that ensures all students earn at least 1.5 fine arts credits by graduation. 
  1. Creating programs that activate STM’s arts facilities, showcasing student talent through performances and exhibitions. 
  1. Integrating fine arts across disciplines, weaving creativity into the fabric of school life. 
  1. Building long-term partnerships with local arts organizations to enhance student learning. 
  1. Establishing a Fine Arts Council, bringing together faculty, students, alumni, and arts professionals to guide and support this initiative. 

Program Evaluation Benchmarks: 

  1. Increase fine arts enrollment by at least 15%. 
  1. Boost attendance at STM performances by 25%. 
  1. Grow student participation in theater by 20%. 
  1. Enhance the perceived quality of STM’s fine arts program through future surveys. 

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  • Photo of Kevin Russell

    Kevin Russell 

    Director of Annual Giving & Stewardship
    414-481-8370 x131

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St. Thomas More is a Catholic, coeducational high school that inspires students to embrace the values of our Patron Saint by becoming men and women for all seasons. Rooted in Christ and the Catholic tradition, the school community embodies the principles of Christian discipleship, service to others, and academic excellence.

Thank you to Visual Image Photography and ValerieAnn Photography for capturing many of the photos on tmore.org.
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