Robert Biasotti, Executive Director, St. Thomas Aquinas High School

May 2026 — Invest: spoke with Robert Biasotti, executive director of St. Thomas Aquinas High School, about the evolving education landscape, the role of technology, and the importance of faith and adaptability. “We’re navigating explosive, radical change in many areas at once,” Biasotti said.

How would you describe the education landscape, particularly at the high school level, and what trends are shaping how students are prepared today?

We’re in unprecedented times. Whether you’re in education or not, the pace of change is unlike anything we’ve experienced before. The rise of smartphones, instant communication, and the ability for anyone to broadcast information anywhere in the world has radically changed society and education.

In addition, we’ve experienced major shocks, from the pandemic to global conflicts to AI emerging as a major force. We’re navigating explosive, radical change in many areas at once.

Because of that, students today are some of the toughest people I’ve ever known. There’s a lot of negativity about this generation, but if I had to experience everything they’re going through all at once, it would be overwhelming. I give a lot of credit to students, parents, and educators who are navigating both the challenges and opportunities.

At the same time, schools have had to adapt in very real ways. For example, even though violence overall may have declined compared to past decades, schools now must operate with heightened security. At St. Thomas, there is no way to enter campus without going through multiple layers of security. We have a single access point, a state-of-the-art camera system, a director of security, and a police presence.

These are radical changes, but they are necessary. You can’t have learning without security.

How have expectations from families and students evolved, particularly around academic outcomes and college readiness?

Expectations are intense. You see it directly when interacting with families. Parents are very focused on outcomes — academics, athletics, college placement — and they are asking very detailed questions.

At St. Thomas, we respond by holding students to high standards. We are demanding, but we are demanding with care. We believe in pushing students because we care about them.

We have strong academic programs, including our Cambridge program, which was the first in a Catholic high school in the country. Our AP (Advanced Placement) results, National Merit recognitions, and overall academic performance reflect that.

At the same time, there is a culture of excellence that has been built over decades. Leaders like our principal, Dr. Denise Aloma, who was actually my teacher, set those expectations. She had the ability to demand respect and excellence while maintaining dignity and care.

That balance defines our approach. We hold students accountable, and they rise to that standard.

What role does technology play in today’s classroom, and how is it shaping student learning?

Technology is a double-edged sword. It’s a tool of tremendous opportunity, but also a tool of tremendous distraction. If used correctly, it enhances learning. Students can access information instantly, explore different perspectives, and deepen discussions. I’ve gone into classrooms and seen meaningful learning supported by technology.

But it requires discipline. It takes a skilled educator, disciplined students, and engaged parents to ensure technology is used productively. If not, it becomes a distraction. It’s very easy to lose focus.

I always think about something simple like GPS. It’s incredibly useful, but it can reduce cognitive engagement compared to learning directions yourself. The same applies to AI and other tools. If you rely on them without truly engaging, you lose something.

It’s OK to use these tools, but you have to replace what you’re losing with something that makes you more productive or a better thinker. Otherwise, you risk losing important skills.

This is something we’re all still figuring out. If adults struggle with it, imagine being a teenager who has never known a world without it.

How do faith-based schools fit into today’s education landscape, and what role do they play in shaping students beyond academics?

At St. Thomas, faith is central to everything we do. It’s not separate from academics or activities. It’s part of our identity.

We believe that every student is made in the image and likeness of God, and our role is to nurture their God-given abilities. That shapes how we approach education and community.

We have programs like campus ministry, prayer opportunities, and service initiatives where students support each other and grow together. You can feel that sense of community and purpose.

Faith grounds students. In a world that is changing rapidly, it gives them something stable to hold onto. It helps them navigate challenges and stay connected to something bigger than themselves.

Looking ahead, what will be the key priorities and investments for St. Thomas Aquinas High School?

Infrastructure will be a major focus. Some of our buildings are decades old, and we will need to invest in updating them.

At the same time, we have to be thoughtful. Technology is evolving so quickly that we can’t just build for today without considering how things may change. For example, in 2010, we built an innovation center that was cutting-edge at the time. Now, much of that capability exists within individual classrooms through devices. Adaptability is key. The world can change quickly, and we need to be ready.

A good example is COVID. We transitioned from a physical school to a virtual school in one day. That was possible because we had already invested in devices for students. When we returned, we adapted again with hybrid learning.

Going forward, the priority is maintaining that adaptability while continuing to invest in facilities and programs.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I feel very fortunate to have spent my career at St. Thomas. There is something special about the culture that has been built over generations. The people who came before us established a foundation of faith, excellence, and community that still exists today. I’ve been the beneficiary of that.

There are challenges in education today, but those challenges are also opportunities. The obstacles we face push us to find solutions and grow. It’s our turn to navigate these challenges and prepare our students to go out into the world ready to lead, serve, and make a difference.