In January of each year, Dr. Noland sends our most recent graduates a survey to see how their first semester in college went. We've talked about doing this sort of episode for years, and this year we finally did it. Thanks for the download and taking the time to listen!

First, we apologize that episode 58 had some sort of technical glitch that wasn't discovered until we tried to upload this episode. Which is why we also thought THIS episode was #58, when in reality it is #59.

In this episode, Deacon Brad, Dr. Noland, Mrs. Jackson, and Mr. McCants discuss why it can be a challenge to achieve the best outcomes of the school for a student if there is not mission alignement. As we often say, if a student really isn't about what we are about, the placement likely will not go well. Are there unique exceptions to that rule? Yes, but that falls under selection bias. In most cases, a student who is not interested in the faith, learning, or preparing for college, will, at best, not fully profit from our formation, and at worst, will become a negative presence in the school body. Imagine a coworker or teamate who is constantly negative, grumbling, and complaining. It can create a toxic environment. It's no different in a school.

This is why we try our best to admit students who fit with our community and are at least mostly aligned with our mission. It makes their experience better, and generally makes the school a happier place.

Deacon Brad, Dr. Noland, Mrs. Jackson, and Mr. McCants discuss a series of topics related to the human formation of students in this conversation. We will be on a two week break, but look forward to new episodes in the New Year. Merry Christmas to all!

Deacon Brad, Jake Noland, Kelly Jackson, and Charles McCants sit down for part 2 on being a student athlete, but this time some of the negatives and challenges that can come with participating in sports.

Deacon Brad Watkins, Charles McCants, and Rob Kirkendall were joined on this special episode by alumni brothers Fr. Leo Dornan, CO and Seminarian Ben Dornan, as well as Seminarian Jorge Sotelo for a conversation following their visit for morning Mass.

In this episode we discuss the ideal classroom and challenges to the learning environment as well as brief conversation about what it really means to get a low grade on a test or quiz.

This week Deacon Brad, Dr. Noland, and Mr. McCants have a conversation about why believe in the importance of doing hard things - especially children being allowed and encouraged to do hard things, even if it sometimes means they fail or fall short of the goal.

Deacon Brad, Jake Noland, Kelly Jackson, and Charles McCants sit down to discuss STMA's athletics program and the many positives that can come with participating in sports for student athletes.

Deacon Brad, Kelly Jackson, and Charles McCants discuss some of the good outcomes we are seeing at STMA, and on an ongoing basis.