Where did you see/hear bad reviews about St. Mary's? While every school will likely bring a variety of opinions, I am surprised that St. Mary's would have more than any other school. We have 2 children there. And while I have some issues with certain aspects I think they could do better with, most of these are admittedly minor issues. I admit, we had settled on the school long before we went there for a tour, but the tour sealed the deal for me.

I hope you find the best fit for you and your family.

St. Thomas is good but asks a LOT of the parents and if both of you work it can be tough (part of the tuition make up is volunteer hours)

St. Rita is great. Super warm and lots of activities.

Queen of Apostles has a newer principal who is doing great things and is a career educator. She is also dispelling the whole uber conservative parish which scares off everyone.

St. Ann is fantastic as well.

Why not Saint Mary's?

Sorry, St. Thomas

Have you looked at St.Thoma More in Arlington, or St. Ann's?

We are a St. Louis family. Been thre for 3 years and really love it. I actually expreiced the opposite of the OP during our tour. The children and teachers I encounter are full of joy.

Our neighbors go to St. Veronicas and love it, but it is pretty far out.

Here's an article about the 1st of the 2 awards St. Rita's principal received. http://catholicherald.com/stories/St-Rita-Schools-principal-honored-with-national-award,28117 The families I know who send their children to St. Rita love the school and moved to be closer to the school/parish.

St. Rita's principal has won two national educator awards in the past year.

http://catholicherald.com/stories/Principal-gets-surprise-sendoff,30137