The Class of 2025 registered in February. Welcome, Spartans!
Some spots still remain; to begin the application process, click here.
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Join Us On The SFHS Path
“In prayer we speak to God, and we hear Him speak to us.”
Saint Francis of Assisi
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Welcome
If you’re thinking about college already, don’t worry, so are we. St. Francis High School looks at a student’s high school career as a whole, the way colleges do, and Freshman Proficiency Tests are the beginning of the SFHS path. Scheduled for April 17, eligible incoming freshmen will test at 8:30 a.m. for Math placement into Honors Advanced Algebra with Trigonometry, Honors Geometry, or Geometry. World Language testing for French and Spanish placement begins at 9:45 a.m. (English and Social Studies placement was shared at Freshman Registration.)
No matter where students begin, SFHS elevates them to the next level so colleges see an upward trend in difficulty and success from year to year. Students work to their strength, without tracking or limits, and earn their “personal best” placement into the highest-level classes for which they are suited. Supported by a community of challenging teachers, engaged counselors, and motivated peers, students not only build their profile each year but also earn a sense of accomplishment and confidence. Click here to view my favorite page in our viewbook to see how the SFHS path prepares students for excellent college placement.
If you would like to discuss “my favorite page,” I invite you to meet me for a school tour and an admissions meeting. Tours are on the hour on Wednesdays or 3:00 p.m. any weekday. We welcome parents of incoming freshmen, transfer students, and middle school students. Call me to discuss the details of your child’s path at (630) 668-5800, ext. 1120.
Sincerely,
Maureen Isphording, Director of Admissions
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"I Am St. Francis"
The Public Middle School to Private High School Perspective: Six Questions for Gwen L. '21 and Rocco T. ’23
1. Grade school attended? Activities involved at SFHS?
Gwen: Lincoln Jr. High School, Theatre, Lacrosse, Choir, Band
Rocco: I attended Eastview Middle School and at St. Francis, I am in SALT, Baseball, and Football.
2. Most challenging or favorite class?
Gwen: My favorite class by far is Music Ensemble, that class challenges me as a musician while still having so much fun.
Rocco: The most challenging class at St. Francis for me was Honors Biology. There were a lot of things to remember and it was difficult.
3. How does SFHS help you to excel in your areas of interest?
Gwen: I have grown so much in my music as well as my academics at St. Francis. There has always been someone there to help and tutor me through my tough spots.
Rocco: SFHS helps me excel because everybody here is held to way higher standards as opposed to other public schools.
4. Describe your decision-making process and why you choose SFHS for your high school experience.
Gwen: I did not have a choice lol, but SFHS helped me feel welcomed with open arms.
Rocco: I struck an interest in St. Francis because I went to a football game middle school night. I had a lot of fun and I started thinking about it. Later that year I shadowed for a day and I had a great time and decided this was where I wanted to go.
5. Why are you glad you chose SFHS for your high school experience?
Gwen: Being at a smaller school gives me more opportunities to strengthen my relationships with my peers around me and gives me more chances to participate in all sorts of activities.
Rocco: I am glad I chose St. Francis because it has helped me so much to become a better person and student, and although it is challenging, I know this education will help me in a few years.
6. Describe the transition from public school to SFHS.
Gwen: I had no trouble making friends (that’s also because I am a huge extrovert) and everyone at SFHS welcomed me, and I created relationships that are going to last my whole life. The academic transition was tedious, but my teachers were there to help me the entire way through. I AM LOVED.
Rocco: One big benefit of coming to a smaller school is the community here. At a public school, I knew a lot of people, but I wasn’t really close with many of them. Coming to St. Francis, it is much easier to get to know people because there are not as many. The transition was hard to begin because I had never really been challenged at my public school. A lot of the material came easy to me and when I got here, it really challenged me to think and work hard, and I grew a lot from that. I AM BLESSED.
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Only at St. Francis High School
A Parent’s Guide to Opportunity in SFHS Performing & Visual Arts
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With more than half the students sharing their creative talents in PVA classes alone, the Performing & Visual Arts are thriving at SFHS. Many opportunities here are unique to our Catholic high school alone, differentiated by AP Art (Studio Drawing or 3-D Design), Digital Art, Communications Design, Music Ensemble (aka Rock Band), and Music Theory. The Department offers so much opportunity, it’s sometimes hard for parents to track the details. So, here’s a Parent’s Guide to the SFHS Performing & Visual Art Department, which welcomes students at all skill levels, from the beginner to passionate artist.
Student Spotlight
- “Being involved in PVA has definitely enriched my SFHS experience and has definitely enhanced my communication skills and brought me closer to my classmates!” – France Arquiza ‘22
- “I have made so many strong friendships with other students with similar interests as me.” -Hannah Blaha ‘23
- “Being involved in PVA has enriched my SFHS experience by giving me a relaxing break in the day where I look forward to listening to music and drawing or painting. It definitely creates a positive effect on the rest of the day.” – Ella Davis ‘22
PERFORMING & VISUAL ARTS DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW:
The talented students who animate our community exceed all expectations when sharing their talents. The department offers classes in art, drama, instrumental and vocal music and boasts 86 years of collective St. Francis teaching experience. Students enrolled in the performing and visual arts often participate in school plays (Fall Play, Spring Musical, One Acts, Summer Musical), concerts, musicals (i.e. Spring Musical, Summer Musical), and art exhibitions.
Department Chair Bob Mamminga: “The vision of our department is to continue to grow – both in numbers and overall quality of the work. The goal is to make the work and experience better than the year before. We are always striving to get better. In addition to performing at St. Francis, we perform in public with experiences at Disney World (Orlando), Cooper’s Corner Restaurant (Wheaton), singing at Medinah Country Club, playing at grade schools and auctions, and so on. We want the students to have a well-rounded experience as possible and to be exposed to all the elements that are out there. For example, there are several different types of bands (i.e. Jazz, Pep, Marching, Rock) and students can participate in a wide variety of opportunities.”
SPOTLIGHTING ART
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*Designates a one semester course
** Freshman may begin in Art II with consent of instructor
Student Spotlight:
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“We used a lot of mediums that I was already comfortable with, and the class was structured in a way that helped me a lot. There weren't step-by-step instructions on how to do everything, so we could figure out what worked for each individual person.” – Claire Dietz ’23 (Art II)
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“It is a chill course in which you can relax and take a brain break during the day while still being productive. Also, the amazing teachers and friends you experience in these classes are the best!!!” – Joey Schlosser ’21 (Art II/III)
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“You will learn how to use Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. I had a fun time hanging out in class.” – Evan Senall ’21 (Digital Art)
Additional Opportunities:
- Arts & Crafts Club
- Art Show
- Visit art museums for instruction and inspiration
- Summer art camps
- Congressional Art Competition & National VFW Art Competition
Fun Fact:
- 6th District Congressional Art Award Winner, 2020
Teacher Kate Kolasinski ’95 Doane: “When I was a student at SFHS, the Art Program was integral to my experience and growth. It is an honor to teach alongside Tia Holinger and contribute to the program. The Visual Art classes at SFHS give students the opportunity to explore and practice thinking creatively which helps them in all other subjects. In ALL our art classes, in addition to classical skills, we focus on taking time in our day to step outside our typical way of thinking and relax into a creative space where we encourage individuality and taking the risk of putting ourselves out there. Students gain confidence in their ability and themselves through this process. Coming in to teach, every day is a new adventure- it’s exciting to see students find joy in creating new things and finding gifts they didn't know they had!”
Teacher Tia Holinger: “I have been teaching at St. Francis for many years. I love the community, love the students, and love the teachers. I get up excited about EVERY DAY. I especially enjoy teaching AP Art because it is a whole new world to the students – the kids are pushed to be so creative and understand concepts of composition. It’s a dynamic, competitive program that helps students prepare portfolios and helps them be admitted into college programs. Our students have won first place for the Congressional Art Award five times and second place twice. This year our student Gigi S. won first place and her artwork is currently hanging in the Capitol building. We have had several winners in the top 12 spots for the DuPage County Fair College Scholarship Competition, which provided college funds for our students. Parents say our classes are an oasis in the day for students. The stress level goes down, students regenerate. They are relaxed and enjoy it because they are being educated in a whole new way.”
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SPOTLIGHTING DRAMA/THEATRE
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*Designates a one semester course
Student Spotlight:
- “Theatre has enriched my SFHS experience by how it led me to become more social. It helped me become less shy and to embrace my love of the arts.” – Roseanne Mendoza ‘23
- “Theatre provides me an essential insight into communication and project management. It's allowed me to meet some of the best friends of my life while developing my leadership abilities.” – John Gerdeman ‘21
Additional Opportunities:
- Annual Productions (SIX!):
- “A Christmas Carol”
- Musical Revue
- Fall Play
- One Acts
- Spring Musical
- Summer Musical
- Drama Club
- Illinois Theatre Festival
- Production Tech Team
- Summer Camps
Fun Fact:
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Production Technology – NEW COURSE IN 2021-2022; This course provides a hands-on exploration of the design and production of scenery, lighting, sound, costumes, props, and makeup for the theatre. Students are introduced to scene construction, tool use, techniques of lighting, stage materials, stage safety, theatre production processes, and the principles of design on which all stagecraft is based.
Play Director and Theatre Teacher Brandon Lewis: “I love that when students are involved in theatre, they can be part of something bigger than themselves. They perform and work on their craft not just for themselves, but for each other and the audience.”
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*Designates a one semester course
Student Spotlight:
- “It was a small class and we were able to learn about a lot of topics in ways we best understood the material. We were also able to look at pieces of modern music in different ways with our gained music theory knowledge.” – Katherine Lemke ’21 (Honors AP Music Theory)
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*Designates a one semester course
**Audition required
Student Spotlight:
- “We do all kinds of different music, and everyone in the class is insanely talented.” – Nate Keough ’21 (Music Ensemble, aka Rock Band)
- “There are so many opportunities to express yourself through music. This class challenged me to work hard to grow into a leader. It also gave me leaders to look up to and lasting friendships among my classmates.” – Matthew Kenny ’21 (Wind Ensemble, aka Band)
Additional Opportunities:
- Acoustic Night
- Christmas Concert
- Guitar Club
- Jazz Band
- Marching Band
- Pit Orchestra
- Pep Band
- Rock Concert
- Spring Concert
- Summer Camps
- Swing Night (Jazz Band)
- Worship Team
Fun Facts:
- ILMEA Honor Jazz Band (one member in 2020)
- ILMEA Honor Band (one member in 2020)
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Orchestra – NEW COURSE IN 2021-2022; Orchestra provides an opportunity for students with instrumental experience (violin, viola, cello, bass, harp, and piano) to continue in high school.
Performing & Visual Arts Department Chair and Band Director, Bob Mamminga: “There are many opportunities for students of differing ability. Guitar is a great opportunity if a student doesn’t have much experience with playing an instrument. If someone wants to join Band with no experience, parents can contact me, and we can set them up with lessons and start in summer camp. On the other hand, students who have exceptional ability, we send to compete in ILMEA (Illinois Music Education Association) every year, and they have a great experience. We also participate in the IHSA Solo Ensemble Contest (Illinois High School Association) and finished in the top 5 high schools in the State.”
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**Audition required
Student Spotlight:
- “This class was a great way to meet other people and bond with other freshmen over something we all love to do.” -Bella Zielinski ‘23 (Mixed Choir)
- “Our choir teacher has made this course so special. She makes each class fun and is very relatable to all her students.” – Anna Schmitt ’22 (Concert Choir)
- “We all work together and use our talents to create something beautiful for people to enjoy.” – Mary-Faith Murray ’21 (Chamber Choir)
Additional Opportunities:
- Fall Concert
- Christmas Concert
- Winter Concert
- Spring Concert
- Summer Camps
- Worship Team
- Community service opportunities
Fun Facts:
- 1st - IHSA Solo & Ensemble Vocal Competition, 2020
- ILMEA District IX Honor Choir (Four members in the Honor Choir in 2020)
- ILMEA All-State Chorus (2 members in 2020)
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Spartan Singers – NEW COURSE IN 2021-2022; The Spartan Singers is an advanced a cappella vocal ensemble of 12-16 mixed voices (SATB or SSAA). Music repertoire is focused on vocal jazz and “rock-appella” style singing with an emphasis on college a cappella preparation.
Nina Schroeder, Choral Teacher: “My philosophy is that we are gifted by God, and we use our gifts for the glory of God. We spend our time enhancing our gift of music, and then we share it, whether that is for a school Mass, for the Christmas Concert, or singing in the community, such as for the Wheaton Franciscan Sisters nearby. Many students go on and sing in college, but all go on with the ability to share their gifts with others. Singing is something we can do forever.”
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A Sample of Experiences that Complement the Department
- Travel to Orlando’s Walt Disney World: Experiences include, but are not limited to: Art students attend workshops with Disney animators, Band students parade down Main Street U.S.A., and Choir & Rock Band perform on stage at Disney Springs
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Participate in Music, Theatre, and Art competitions nationally and throughout the state of Illinois: ILMEA District and State participation, Congressional Art Competition, National VWF Art Competition, IHSA Solo & Ensemble Contest
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Attend operas and musicals in Chicago: Hamilton and Anastasia in 2019
- Visit art museums for instruction and inspiration: Art Institute of Chicago in 2019
- Participate in Jazz Band, Chamber Choir, Swing Choir, and Music Ensemble performances at local events and for area audiences
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UPCOMING EVENTS*
*In order to prioritize the health and wellness of our community, visit events will take place in a limited capacity while observing social distancing and safety measures. Please understand that we may need to revise or cancel visits as we monitor COVID updates.
Talk & Tour
Shadow
Summer Camps
VIRTUAL VISIT
Campus Tour
Shadow Visit
Information Session
One-on-One
Virtual Campus Tour
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Maureen
Isphording
Director of Admissions
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SFHS Featured on Fox 32 Pep Rally Friday
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Feast of St. Francis
We hope you enjoy our talented choir singing the prayer of St. Francis
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120 Full year and semester course offerings
19 Honors courses
17 Advanced Placement (A.P.) courses
CO-CURRICULAR: ACTIVITIES & ATHLETICS
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24 sports programs
65% of students participate in the performing arts
77% of students participate in athletic programs
PASTORAL MINISTRY
Provides opportunity for prayer and worship, retreats, justice and service, ministry leadership formation, pastoral care, and community building
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SFHS Bus Service
St. Francis High School offers bus transportation. The school provides two-way bus service in the northern, western and southern suburbs, with students arriving to St. Francis High School by 7:25 a.m. and departing school after the Activity Period at 3:15 p.m.
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