Join Us On The SFHS Path

"Be patient in tribulation, humble in prosperity,

and so you will always triumph." 

Saint Francis of Assisi 

Welcome

Welcome to the 2025-2026 Admissions Journey at St. Francis High School! 

As the new school year begins, there’s a sense of excitement and possibility in the air at St. Francis High School. Next week, we have the great joy of welcoming the Class of 2029 to campus for Freshman Orientation, a day filled with energy, connection, and the first steps of a transformational high school experience. To all of our new families, we are so grateful you’ve chosen to be part of the SFHS community. 

At SFHS, we believe high school should be more than just academic preparation, it should be a place where students feel seen, supported, and inspired. Our community is built on meaningful relationships, shared values, and a commitment to nurturing both the hearts and minds of our students. Whether it's in the classroom, on the athletic field, on stage, or through service, our students are surrounded by faculty and peers who challenge them to grow while walking with them every step of the way. 

We’re proud of the strong sense of belonging that defines life at SFHS—and we know that for our students to thrive, their families need to feel that same sense of connection. That’s why we warmly invite all prospective families to the Spartan Showcase: Parent Essentials Info Night on Wednesday, September 18 at 6:30 p.m. This event is designed to give you an inside look at the people, programs, and values that make our school community so special. You’ll hear from our current students, meet other Future Spartan families, and learn how to make the most of your student’s experience at St. Francis. 

Thank you for exploring all that St. Francis High School has to offer. We look forward to meeting you, answering your questions, and walking this journey with you—together, as a Spartan family. 

Pace e Bene—Peace and all good.

Go Spartans,

Patrick Jacobsen, Director of Admissions

Only at St. Francis High School

THIS ISSUE’S FEATURE: COMMUNITY at Freshman Orientation 

What happens when you send your freshman off for the first day of high school? If parents were to peek at SFHS, this is what they’d see: 

Morning Kickoff: The day begins with important logistics: homeroom assignments, lockers, handbooks, and ID photos, all paired with plenty of helpful guidance from upperclassmen. Freshmen are welcomed by members of the National Honor Society and Student Ambassador Leadership Team, who lead fun icebreakers and introduce students to the wide range of activities at SFHS. The morning concludes with a keynote presentation by the Pastoral and Student Ministry Teams, offering a meaningful introduction to Saint Francis of Assisi and the values that shape our community, what we proudly call The Francis Way. 

Lunch, Scavenger Hunt & Schedules: Freshmen enjoy lunch with their homeroom, giving them time to connect and build new friendships. From there, they set off on a campus-wide scavenger hunt before walking through a mini-version of their daily class schedule, getting to know the layout, the routines, and the rhythm of SFHS life.

With the school all to themselves, freshmen have the chance to explore and engage without the bustle of a full campus.

“Freshman Orientation provides our new students with an invaluable opportunity to experience the school with their peers in a supportive atmosphere. Having the school to themselves allows freshmen to explore their new surroundings freely, fostering comfort and confidence as they navigate this important transition”, says Maureen Isphording, SFHS Assistant Principal for Student Life. 

Spartan Spirit: The day wraps up with an energizing pep rally, where freshmen learn the school song, take part in Spartan traditions, and experience the excitement that defines the SFHS community. “Orientation is not just about familiarizing students with the layout; it is about building a strong foundation for success,” says Maureen Isphording. “Through engaging activities and meaningful interactions with faculty, staff, and student leaders, our freshmen begin to forge connections that will enrich their high school experience.”

"I Am St. Francis"

What Does the SFHS Community Mean to You?

The SFHS community is one of a kind. Not only does it bring out the best in people but it also pushes people to do their best. It is a place where I have been be able to participate in activities that interest me and succeed in learning in the classroom while also finding new passions to explore. – Mary Jo C. ‘28

The SFHS community has always been incredibly welcoming to me, as it has a place for everyone and anyone. St. Francis has fantastic communities in academics, sports, and the arts, where I found my home and place with people who shared interests with me. – Matthew L. ‘26

To me, the SFHS Community means a place where I am both surrounded by support and challenged in equal measures. My teachers challenge me to do my best, my classmates inspire me to learn with them, and my friends are always there to lift me up. – Cadence D. ‘28

Around Campus This Month

SFHS Traditions

Two beloved traditions recently took place here at SFHS! Members of our senior class created the annual mural in the Student Union, which every senior will sign when returning to school!

Students have also been decorating their parking spots prior to the start of the school year! These fun Spartan traditions are two of many reasons that make SFHS so special.

Spartan Senior Receives Congressional Award

Congratulations to Ava B. ’26, on earning the Congressional Award Gold Medal, the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. Congress to students. Ava led and formed her own 501(c)(3) organization, Beginner Bookwormsm to provide books to local underserved students and underfunded schools!

Bringing the Franciscan Spirit to Hinsdale

SFHS Admissions was recently in Hinsdale, for Uniquely Thursday, showing our Spartan Pride and growing our school community.