St. Francis High School Admissions Newsletter-9/4/2024

Join Us On The SFHS Path

"It is no use walking anywhere to preach unless our walking is our preaching."

Saint Francis of Assisi

Welcome

ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL RAISES THE BAR AS CATHOLIC, BLUE RIBBON POWERHOUSE

From higher lifelong earnings to developing the whole person, Catholic education offers numerous benefits. But—there are Catholic schools—and there are Blue Ribbon Catholic college prep schools, making St. Francis High School a powerhouse. Here is a fresh view of SFHS students who, gently and steadily, develop readiness for college and life in our superior academic and multi-faceted Blue Ribbon school culture, reserved for 1% of schools in the nation:

1. St. Francis High School students have incredible preparation in “soft skills,” the ability to self-motivate, organize, and balance school and life. Our distinction as a Microsoft Showcase School assists and leverages technology to enhance learning and give students skills to take to college and the workplace.

2. There is grit and resiliency, that come from SFHS students; their work ethic and determination are second to none. Our optimal school size and college prep community direct students to dig deep each day.

3. St. Francis High School students earn success, and I can speak from experience that their applications impress. When an application hits the desk of a college admissions representative, it’s well known that this student understands, and practices, what is necessary for success in college and in life.

4. St. Francis High School students will be outgoing, positive members of college campuses and leaders in their communities. This is an outgrowth of being challenged with the highest academic standards in a supportive environment where students take chances and grow, assured that genuine care is present from everyone in the building.

In addition, I would like to express that we are in the presence of God each time we step through the doors here at St. Francis High School. Teachers and staff commit to choosing light and joy with each interaction, which translates as hope and peace to students throughout the school day.

Visit soon to explore what is uniquely St. Francis High School—a superior Blue Ribbon Catholic college prep experience. Click here to see our event schedule, and all visit opportunities, and register your student for a Shadow Day.

Warm regards,

Patrick Jacobsen, Director of Admissions

Only at St. Francis High School

Experience the SFHS difference, which offers distinct advantages that provide students with a well-rounded education to prepare them for a successful future.

Best Practices Help Freshman Acclimate to High School, Friends, and Fun

“Welcome to the Spartan family!” That’s how St. Francis High School freshman begin, with unique opportunities the school structures to help freshman quickly belong as they learn, meet people, and earn confidence. In addition to Freshman Orientation featured in the previous SFHS Admissions newsletter, below are seven Best Practices that help freshman become Spartans in the welcoming community that is St. Francis High School.

1. “Francis Friday”

Freshman Religion classes experience formation to help them know the “St. Francis Way” and what we’re about as a school. “We want our students to understand not just who our patron is, but also who we are called to be. Every Friday for the first quarter we’ll look at the life of Saint Francis and the prayers that he wrote, qualities such as peace, love, light, and joy. Then we’ll ask ourselves – how can we do that in our lives? Where do we see a need for this?” – Michael Page, Pastoral Ministry Department Chair

2. Counseling’s “Success Group”

Freshmen at SFHS seeking help with adjusting to high school can join the six-week “Success Group.” This program teaches effective study strategies, test-taking methods, and tips for a smooth high school transition. Students will also learn how to optimize their Microsoft Surface Pro for better organization and note-taking. Success Group sessions are held once a week during rotating class periods, providing a chance to meet new people as well. Through Success Group, Counseling aims to help students begin their high school journey confidently and excel throughout their time at SFHS.

3. Four-Year Homeroom Period

“Being with the same group of students for four years really helps them develop stronger and deeper bonds throughout their high school experience. I’ve had two groups of students so far for the full four-year stretch. It’s amazing to see how close they become with each other over time and to be a special part of their journey.” – Tom Juliano, Science Teacher

4. Spartan Tech Entry Program (STEP)/Summer Camps

With more than 30 camps to choose from, rising freshman take advantage of summer camp opportunities. SFHS campers report experiencing “joy” when making new friends, unplugging from their electronic devices, learning about themselves, and connecting with other people over the summer months. The mandatory STEP camp allows freshman to receive an introduction to SFHS and get a jump start on the Microsoft Surface Pro.

5. Freshman Teachers

“At St. Francis, the teachers of freshmen strive to provide a community that is welcoming, exhibiting the Franciscan spirit, and meeting the needs of the individual student. In addition to the course curriculum, the teachers also incorporate lessons about time management, study skills, and organizational methods to help ease freshmen into the high school experience.” – Susan Fairhead, Freshman English Teacher

6. Activity Period

During this optional but unique time after academic classes, SFHS students join clubs (30+ options), meet with teachers, makeup tests, study, or just relax. Athletic practices begin at 3:15 p.m.

"I Am St. Francis"

The Student Perspective:

What was most helpful to you freshman year to acclimate to the Spartan community?

Nathan R. ’25 “Something that was helpful during my freshmen year to acclimate to the Spartan community was how kind and welcoming all of my teachers were, and still are. I struggled at the start of freshmen year, but my teachers understood and were available for extra help when I needed it before and after school. They always would explain a topic twice if I was confused and always cared about my success in their class."

Amber M. ’25: “Something that helped my freshman year to acclimate to the Spartan community was trying new things! I know it is scary to jump into something that is totally new and frightening, but for me trying new sports and clubs, I made some of my closest friends at St. Francis. Everyone is so welcoming and supportive, which helped tremendously so it became easier to be myself and have fun in new environments.”

Around Campus This August

Flag Football earns historical win!

Congratulations to our Girls Flag Football team on making SFHS history by defeating Regina Dominican by a score of 32-14 last Wednesday for the first win in program history!.

Attention all 5th thru 8th graders interested in Dance!

Our Spartanettes Dance Team is holding a one-day clinic! Dancers will be led through warmup, a technique class, as well as learn a few new dances to get to know what it’s like to be a Spartanette! Dancers will also have the opportunity to meet the team and ask any questions about SFHS! All dancers will have the opportunity to dance on the sidelines with us at our Home Football Game on Friday, October 18th wearing their new Spartanettes Dance T-shirt.

Date: Wednesday, September 25th
Time: 3:30-7:00 p.m.
Location: Dance Room
Ages: 5th-8th graders
Fee: $75
Register Here* *you will need to create a Snap account to register