Saint Thomas More Catholic School (STM) marked a major milestone in its 75-year history with the blessing and dedication of its brand-new classroom building, extensive campus renovations, and its recognition as the first Catholic school in Georgia to go solar.

The joyous ceremony, led by Father Bob, pastor of Saint Thomas More Catholic Church, brought together students, parents, faculty, staff, parish members, and community partners to celebrate the new space and the school’s renewed commitment to its celebration of Communion, academic excellence, and bond as one STM family.

The new building was designed with flexibility, collaboration, and joyful learning in mind and includes 12 bright, airy new classrooms for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Additional renovations throughout campus reflect the school’s commitment to providing a modern, mission-aligned space which supports the whole child: mind, body, and spirit.

With the desire to build a more sustainable future, the church and school partnered with Georgia Interfaith Power and Light (GIPL), and with support from Georgia Bright, completed a 100 solar panel installation on its roof.

“As Catholics, we are called to be caretakers of God’s Earth,” said Fr. Robert Hussey, pastor of St. Thomas More Church. “This solar installation is a faithful response to that call, and an act of stewardship that honors both the beauty of Creation and the needs of future generations.”

This initiative is STM’s bold response to Pope Francis’ call in Laudato Si’ to care for our common home. It positions the school as a model of environmental leadership within Catholic education, not just in Georgia but across the Southeast. 

“I echo Fr. Bob’s sentiments, as our solar-powered space reflects the heart of our school’s mission and highlights two of our Tiger Traits,” said Charlie Seamans, Interim Principal of Saint Thomas More Catholic School. “We Serve Others as Christ Would by caring for Creation with intention and love, and we Work Together for the Common Good by promoting the communal and responsible use of resources.”

With sustainable and energy-efficient green building practices, the school will be LEED-certified demonstrating a commitment to reducing environmental impact and conserving natural resources. 

To learn more about Saint Thomas More Catholic School’s commitment to environmental sustainability, visit GIPL’s article.