Friday, April 24, 2015

BUT A MILLION BUCKS A YEAR TO RMS

BREAKING NEWS Last Updated 10:24 AM

The St. Thomas Aquinas campus is shown in this 2008 file photo.

St. Thomas Aquinas High will close its doors after summer session

St. Thomas Aquinas High School, well-known for its academic strength to prepare students for college, will close its doors for good after the summer session, the school has confirmed. "The Archdiocese of Agana has informed St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic High School that it will officially close its doors after its summer session this school year," Principal Pilar Perez Williams stated. "Due to the school’s small enrollment and inadequate financial resources over the years, the school is unable to continue operating."


Saint Thomas Aquinas Catholic School closing

Posted: Apr 23, 2015 10:11 PMUpdated: Apr 23, 2015 10:47 PM
Saint Thomas Aquinas Catholic School announces this school year will be its last. According to a press release issued by principal Pilar Williams on Thursday, the closure follows news comes from the Archdiocese of Agana. The closure is a result of the Ordot school's small enrollment and inadequate financial resources.

Ms. Williams' release is as follows:
The Archdiocese of Agana has informed St Thomas Aquinas Catholic High School that it will officially close its doors after its summer session this school year. Due to the school's small enrollment and inadequate financial resources over the years, the school is unable to continue operating.
The school leadership is working with the Archdiocese and the other Catholic high schools on Guam to effect a smooth transition for the students entrusted to its care. 
The Aquinas mission has contributed to the educational landscape on Guam through the hard work and achievements of its alumni, students and faculty. In their new surroundings, they will bring the spirit in which Aquinas, despite its size and limitations, has fostered in the development of their Christian character, scholastic and other achievements.

http://www.kuam.com/global/story.asp?s=28878659
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40 comments:

  1. I, for one, do not believe 1 million figure. Anyone who employs people, pays for instructors trips and stipend, and upkeep of huge building near the ocean knows that figure couldn't possibly be true.

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    1. The building is literally a two story makeshift school. You should have visited it one day. It may have been small, but those students would have lifted your hearts up.

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  2. Where can I buy up the tickets for the B'day bash?

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  3. really really sad.

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  4. At AOLG contraception, abortion and homosexuality are promoted. Such a fine Catholic school. NOT!!

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    1. When I was at Academy, we were taught abstinence. And before you think I was attending in the 50s, I graduated with the Class of '07.

      But this whole debacle isn't about other schools and how unfair it is that STA is closing and not any other Catholic school, that's just a smokescreen from the real issue at hand.

      AAA is using real people -students, their families, faculty and staff- to pay us all back for not throwing down financing support for his subpar ministering mill. It's despicable, and like the Laxamana family, they're made as nothing more than collateral damage in his attempt to hurt people and display his authority. Compensating for something else, aren't you Archbishop?

      I was a freelance writer for the Pacific Voice while I was in college, and covered the first graduation of STA. They only had 2 graduates, held at the St. Therese Chapel to a small but proud crowd. Over the years, it was nice to see that the school grew from 2 graduates.

      But this, by far, is absurd. He didn't even attempt to help find support for them from the community. And don't say it's from the appeal. But hopefully there's a way for us to keep its doors open. Remember how Mt. Carmel School was about to close its doors until the community stepped in?

      CCOG, I know this is out of the scope of what you're trying to do, but if you, or anyone else can find a way for us to keep the school from closing (not just to spite AAA, but to empower STA stakeholders and prevent them from being pawns in his game), please let us know. There has got to be some way to keep the school open.

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    2. Maybe this isnt the right forum, but what 1:18pm says is true. The AOLG girls are in support for gay marriage, abortion, and contraception and they will proudly tell you so. What ever was happening in 2007 is not happening now and I should know because my niece attends there now. Just this week, her PE teacher, as a homework assignment, told them to lock themselves in their rooms so no one can see and "explore" their female parts. WTH?!?! Her parents complained to the principal, and was told it was a misunderstanding, but my niece knew it wasn't. She was even embarrassed about it.

      On the other hand, I have spoken with Pilar Williams and she is very passionate for STA and tries to impart Catholic values to the students. I had hoped my niece could attend STA because it is an excellent school, but unfortunatley, due to financial constraints she could not go.

      God Bless STA staff, students, and parents.

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    3. I permitted this comment but need to add the qualifier "some" AOLG girls as I am sure not all are. And yes, it's problems like this that the NCW likes to exploit. I don't know anything about AOLG but I recently an AOLG teacher was on Facebook on a post by Ray Gibson arguing in favor of gay marriage. I posted a comment asking him if he was a teacher at AOLG. When I checked back later, he had removed all of his comments.

      That said, I would like to leave this alone until someone is willing to put their names on said accusations and provide solid evidence. Thank you.

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    4. TO 8:31 AM, why do you think it's wrong for a student in a health class to be given an assignment to "explore their female parts"? I think it's because you automatically associate it as a sexual act. However, understanding your body is important to maintaining it and being able to identify things that may not be normal. It's called EDUCATION. Ask any healthcare professional and they will tell you how many women have put themselves at risk because of the shame they feel towards discussing their body. I disagree that Aolg promotes homosexuality, abortion, and contraception. First, NO ONE PROMOTES ABORTIONS. Pro-Choice is not the opposite of Pro-Life. EDUCATION is not PROMOTION. Exposing the students to the arguments of pro-choice believers allows them to confirm and promote their beliefs in the pro-life movement. If the students don't know and understand the counter arguments, they will not be able to defend themselves. Instead they will resort to name-calling (a tactic we often see). Second, how does AOLG promote homosexuality? Let's remember that homosexuality is not a sin. Homosexual acts are. I don't ever remember any teacher or administrator encouraging two girls to engage in this type of behavior. However, you may be referring to the fact that the students are taught to respect and love one another despite their faults. You may be referring to the fact that the students are taught to accept one another as they are and that only God can pass judgement. If this is what you mean, then I guess you are right. Finally, contraception. In all my years at AOLG, as a student and then a teacher, I don't recall the school promoting contraception. I recall that students are taught that abstinence is the ONLY way to fully protect yourself from STDs and pregnancy. That sexual intercourse is reserved for a married man and woman. However, contraception should be taught and discussed as part of a health or science class. It's important for our young ladies to understand the risks and benefits of using contraception, along with the teachings of the church. Obviously, I'm quite upset that anyone would publicly make such disparaging remarks about a school I hold dear to my heart. However, the true reason I felt so compelled to respond is my concern that so many adults confuse promotion with education when it comes to religious schools. We must arm our children with all the information. If we don't, then we create blind followers who will turn once they are no longer being watched by their parents. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to say my peace.

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    5. Could you please state for us here the church's teaching on contraception? Thank you.

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    6. The church does not condone the use of artificial contraception. Actually, as a young woman, I don't remember if there was a distinction between artificial and natural contraception. I was taught that married couples were supposed to be open to the blessing of new life and should not prevent it from happening. However, the Church obviously recognizes the importance of allowing couples some say in the matter and now allows the use of the rhythm method. Actually, if this method remains as the only acceptable form of family planning then the health assignment above is necessary. Of course one can argue that the rhythm method can be used to identify the most fertile time for the purpose of having kids rather than preventing it. Did I pass?

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    7. Actually, no, I'm sorry to say, which is why there may be a problem, not just at AOLG, but pretty much everywhere in the Catholic Church. The neo's exploit our ignorance in this regard and by doing so are able to cuddle up to the pope and the bishops as great promoters of the family. It's only a ruse. Kiko is only after power. But he's a smart man and exploits the ignorance of most Catholics. May I give you the assignment to further research what the church actually teaches? We would like you to represent AOLG well.

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    8. And of course it doesn't help that Guam's most visible and vocal proponent of killing babies in the womb, Lou Leon Guerrero, was inducted into the Academy Hall of Fame. But then the Hall of Fame probably has other priorities.

      http://elpais.com/elpais/2015/04/13/inenglish/1428924928_027727.html

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    9. I've already shared what I believed to be the teaching of the church. I'm not an expert on the matter, so can you highlight where my understanding went wrong. Thanks.

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    10. I don't know who you are so you can't take this personally. But this conversation began with your taking others to task for wrong assumptions about what is taught or not taught at AOLG. In fact you defended the teaching of ideas that our counter to Catholic teaching in the name of EDUCATION (your caps).

      However, when it comes to actually being able to identify a core moral teaching you do not rely on EDUCATION, you rely on "my understanding". And in doing so, you, since you were a teacher at the school, you are demonstrating the problem.

      After all your years as a student and a teacher at AOLG, you apparently don't know what the church's teaching is on contraception or apparently where to find it.

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    11. To clarify, I took issue with the wrong assumption about what is being PROMOTED at Academy, not what is taught. The PE assignment was used as an example to support that assumption. I would never take your comments personally. After reading several of your blogs and your responses to comments made, you've consistently responded the same way to everyone who does not fit your mold of the ideal Catholic. What I don't understand is why you would not take the opportunity to educate your readers on the correct teachings of the church when I asked you to highlight where you believe my understanding is wrong. I guess Kiko is not the only one wants power and banks on the ignorance of some.

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    12. Well, now, that didn't take long, did it.

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  5. I recommend a very viable solution. Sell the RMS Seminary, we do not want nor need Neo Presbyters. It is completely foolish to operate a seminary to educate (?) 44 seminarians, where there are only 17 parishes of which 8 are now stored by Neo clergies. What can an island do with excess prebsters???? The proceeds from the sale can provide the funding for St. Thomas Aquinas, support our schools and renovate our churches. These churches are not only in need of renovations, but basic operational funds. Archbishop, our churches are financially being damaged by your actions and also inaction. The laity is reluctantly withholding contributions because this is the only weapon we have to send you a message that we do not want The Way in our Parishes. Please heed, so Catholics can find Peace once more.

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    1. Pleading with Tony is an exercise in futility because he really doesn't give a shit about what happens to us. There will be no peace as long as he is archbishop. Servus Tuus my ass!! STOP THE MONEY!! STOP THE MONEY!!

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  6. STA closed for a new Neo school? What's next?

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    1. who said that? NEO don't have schools. They brainwash you in secret in a hall. with the windows covered up.

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    2. AND take you to the jungle. Scared straight!

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  7. AAA and the NEO are planning on closing down every Catholic school and church on island. This is part of the BIG NEO plan, or should I say virus! People, we got to stop him and the NEO from this genocide of the Catholic Faith! They have all gone kaduku or should I say KIKOKADUKU!

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  8. I don't believe anything coming out of the Chancery anymore. Small enrollment and inadequate financing? Msgr. James would've known how to fix this. The three idiots on the hill together will never measure up. Hmmm, converting St. Thomas Aquinas to St. Kiko? Maybe the seminarians need refresher courses in basic English, Math, and common sense.

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  9. As an STA parent, I can tell you that our entire school community is devastated by this news.

    This morning, we started the day with a healing mass concelebrated by Monsignor James, Pale Mike, Fr. Dan, and Fr. Jeff. Pale Mike's homily was truly inspirational and gave many of us some measure of solace during a time of shock and upheaval.

    Was there any warning that the school was going to close? No. Was there any preparation given on the part of the archdiocese? No. After the shock has worn off, we have to begin the painful task of finding other schools for our children to go to. Could this situation have handled differently? Most certainly. Although the reason given by the archdiocese for the school's closure is financial, I, like many others, question the truthfulness of that. The sad fact is, many of us question the integrity of the archbishop. Through his past actions, he has shown just how vindictive he can be. His motives are suspect. His legacy as an archbishop will be one of "tearing down" rather than "building up" the church, the schools, and the faithful.

    Those who are outside the STA community cannot fully understand how WONDERFUL the school has been for our kids. We have been blessed by a fine principal in Ms. Williams, caring faculty and staff, unwavering parental support, and community partners who have nurtured our bright and talented students and helped them develop beyond what they thought they were capable of. When the school closes in July, the island would have lost a fine Catholic educational institution that could have benefited so many others. Unlike that other institution, the one that is truly a vortex of financial drain on the archdiocese, the products of St. Thomas Catholic High School are ones that we can be proud of. Our students are now challenged to take the spirit of Aquinas wherever they go.

    Fr. Mike said it so well in his interview with Patti Arroyo today. See the link below:

    http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/pnc-k57-interviews/item/3328-pale-mike-crisostomo-with-patti-arroyo

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    1. Sounds a little elitist to me-- "those who are outside the community cannot fully understand how wonderful the school has been for our kids." I'm sure STA is a fine Catholic high school, just like FD, ND, and Academy. Please don't begin to sound like the crazy Neos!

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    2. How is this elitist?

      She's stating how wonderful the school has been for HER child; she's stating an opinion about STA, and no other school. She's not putting anybody else down... so please don't put those words in her mouth.

      Let's concentrate on the tragedy of this situation and not make it into a competition or to outdo each other. THEN and only then will we begin to "sound like the crazy neos."

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    3. Yes, I agree with ANON 3:16. If Becky is speaking from her experience as a parent of a student of STAHS, who are we to judge her intent and mostly, her experience. Unless you are a parent or former student, you would not really know what goes on.

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    4. The archbishop has fallen off his rocker and hit his bald head on the floor. He closes STAHS then puts a appeal on the U'Matuna for donations to help Catholic schools in Micronesia. That's it.. he's cracked.

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  10. I may be very ignorant but how is St. Thomas Aquinas High School different and better than Father Duenas Memorial High School? Aren't they both college prep?

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    1. I don't know much, but one difference is FDM is for boys only and STA is coed.

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    2. What's the relevance of this thread?

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    3. There's no reason to compare... both are good schools. It depends on the student's needs, to say which is "better" or worse. But neither are intrinsically better... unless we really want to get into the statistics. I'm inclined to say STA churns out a larger percentage of students who go to higher-ranked universities, but when the population is so small, that's easy to do.

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    4. Yes, let's not get into a competition between schools. There are too many variables. Plus all of them are equally treated badly by the same bishop.

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    5. I know someone whose kids go to St John's, another expensive school. Other family members go to elite boarding schools in the U.S. Safe to say that this guy has a snooty attitude towards other schools. But he only has high praises for STA. Given a chance, the school's stakeholders could have averted the closure. However, it was someone's vanity and vindictiveness that sealed the fate of STA.

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    6. Tim, according to the other blog you are "estrångheru". What's in it for you?

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    7. Oh, didn't you know. I thought everyone knew! Well one, I want to make a million dollar commission when I sell the RMS property, two, I'm going to make millions on book and movie rights for this whole scandalous affairs, and three, I want the pope to make me the next bishop. How's that?

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    8. Tim, I don't think the neokookoos understand the irony and sarcasm of your statement. They will take it literally and further accuse you of usurping the seat of the Archbishop of Guam. Honestly, at this point in time I trust you more than the useless mitered churchman who occupies this seat in Guam. So, YES, even as a traditional Catholic, I am open to acclaim you as the head of the Guam Archdiocese, just to put some clarity in this tangled web of lies. Or in hat regard, any rational Catholic is better off than this clown who always says, "I don't know!" because he is a puppet on a string.

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    9. Pius is the real estrangheru who's after the meellions and meellions that Guam has to offer. In contrast, Tim is no stranger here as he and his family have made Guam their home and have contributed more to our island than Pius ever will. Pius is a moocher and a nuisance who nobody will miss when he's gone.

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  11. Sad they have to close.
    Aquinas school holds Festival of the Lions carnival http://www.kuam.com/story/28959362/2015/05/02/aquinas-school-holds-festival-of-the-lions-carnival
    Interview with principal Williams: https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10152964657698742&id=39567613741&ref=ts

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