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Points, Pride, and Team Spirit

By Chinedu Abiaziem, Saint Thomas' Episcopal School, School Buzz Reporter | February 3, 2026

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Faculty and students gather for the Institution of Saint Thomas Episcopal School’s new Headmaster during a formal chapel service. The ceremony marked a moment of transition and unity for the STE community. Pictured: Headmaster Seraphim Danckaert with members of the Saint Thomas Episcopal School community. (Photo credit: Saint Thomas Episcopal School / James McGuff)

A new tradition is taking shape at Saint Thomas Episcopal School as the House System launches with renewed energy, school spirit, and friendly competition. This year, students were introduced to two new houses—Gold and Navy—designed to bring the school community closer together while encouraging academic excellence, service, and involvement.

Students earn points for their houses in a variety of ways, including volunteering, checking out books, and achieving academic honors such as making the Honor Roll or Dean’s List. “The House System gives students more ways to be recognized for the good things they’re already doing,” said Dean of Students Chris Horton. “It creates positive motivation and a sense of shared pride.”

The system is also student-led, with senior delegates overseeing committees focused on academics, student wellness, student life, and ministry. These committees help plan events, track points, and encourage participation across grade levels. “Having seniors lead committees allows students to take ownership of the program and model leadership for younger students,” Horton said.

According to Horton, the idea for the House System developed over time. “The idea came to me based on a previous school I had worked at, and I spent December through January really thinking through how it could work at STE,” he said. Around May, he shared the concept with Mr. Tim Wainright, Headmaster Mr. Seraphim Danckaert, and Mr. Vu Ly, Head of Middle School. “Everyone saw the potential for connection and school unity,” Horton added.

Students have already begun to feel the impact. “I like how involved the school is with the House System,” said student Mina Carrier. “It brings everyone together and makes people want to do good things to earn more points for their house.”

The program has also gained support from faculty and staff. “The House System signals new beginnings and deeper connection at STE,” said Mr. Danny Kahalley, the school’s Ambassadors Officer. “It encourages students to see themselves as part of something bigger than just their grade.”

Looking ahead, Horton hopes the House System will continue to grow. “I would love to see it expand all the way down to kindergarten,” he said. “I also hope we’ll have more house competitions, bigger celebrations, and that the tradition will be even stronger when I eventually leave.” When asked about his favorite moment so far, Horton laughed. “Definitely getting to wear my blue and yellow sequined jacket at the pep rallies.”
As Gold and Navy continue to compete, the House System is already doing more than awarding points: it’s building pride, leadership, and unity throughout the STE community.