St. Francis High School Junior Spartan Newsletter

Join Us On The SFHS Path

"The love of God makes all heavy things light
and all bitter things sweet"

Saint Francis of Assisi

Welcome

Blue Ribbon Education Inspires Leaders

This month’s Admissions Newsletter shines a spotlight on academics, and how St. Francis High School’s nationally recognized, Blue Ribbon education goes far beyond textbooks and test scores. At SFHS, academic excellence naturally nurtures leadership and the courage to take healthy risks. Not the reckless kind, but the brave steps that encourage students to stretch, grow, and discover what they’re truly capable of.

At St. Francis High School, learning means more than reaching academic potential, it means discovering new passions. Teachers invite students to step outside their comfort zones in ways they might never have imagined, always with a safety net of encouragement and support. Growth often begins in that space of challenge, and it’s here that our students learn to approach the world with both confidence and curiosity.

Leadership at SFHS is never one-size-fits-all. Sometimes it’s quiet, steady, and rooted in collaboration. Other times it shines in front of a classroom, on a stage, or across an athletic field. With the guidance of dedicated teachers and the strength of a caring community, students develop the tools to lead in ways that feel authentic to them.

Grounded in Franciscan values, our students learn that true leadership often happens shoulder-to-shoulder with others. They encourage, motivate, and walk alongside classmates, helping to build resilience, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility.

This is whole-student education; academics, character, and leadership, tied together with the Blue Ribbon distinction that makes St. Francis High School so unique. I invite you to experience the difference for yourself. Join us at our Open House on November 2, schedule a Future Spartan Shadow Visit, and see how your child can grow at SFHS. I look forward to welcoming you soon!

Pace e Bene—Peace and all good.

Go Spartans,

Patrick Jacobsen, Director of Admissions

Only at St. Francis High School

THIS ISSUE’S FEATURE:

The SFHS College Prep Advantage

At St. Francis High School, a proud recipient of the National Blue Ribbon School Award, a distinction awarded to just 1% of schools across the country, preparing students for college success is central to our mission. This national recognition affirms our commitment to academic excellence and innovation in education. Through rigorous coursework, personalized guidance, and a supportive academic framework, our college preparatory program empowers students to achieve their goals with confidence, while positioning them to stand out in an increasingly competitive college landscape.

A key part of this process is personalized course selection. From freshman year onward, students collaborate with counselors and teachers to build academic schedules that reflect their strengths and align with their college aspirations. Principal Huhn explains:

“From the start of freshman year, we place students in classes that match their skills, using entrance exam results and proficiency tests as a guide. We then build on their strengths, offering opportunities to move into more advanced courses as they grow. By senior year, our goal is for every student to be fully prepared to submit a strong, competitive college application. Wherever they begin, we challenge them, support them, and help them rise to new levels of achievement.”

Sample Schedules Highlight College Pathways

To demonstrate the effectiveness of our college preparatory program, St. Francis High School provides sample student schedules aligned with the admission requirements of colleges our graduates attend. This comparison highlights how our academic pathways meet and exceed collegiate expectations, showing a clear progression from coursework to college acceptance. With graduates earning admission to a broad range of institutions, from highly selective universities to specialized programs, these schedules offer families concrete evidence of how an SFHS education opens doors to diverse and competitive college opportunities.

For a full overview of our curriculum and departmental offerings, please explore our Program of Studies.

"I Am St. Francis"

The Student Perspective:
What Do Classes at SFHS Mean to You?

“The classes at SFHS never fail to challenge me as an individual. The teachers and courses are designed to improve your critical thinking skills and teach you more than just the required curriculum. Classes help teach you time management and pave the way for success beyond high school.” – Shannon P. ‘28

“Classes at SFHS are the perfect size to where you feel like you have a good connection with your teachers, and they are more than willing to help you when you need it.” – Peter S. ‘26

“Classes at SFHS push me to think critically, collaborate with my peers, and apply what I learn to real-world leadership opportunities. After taking AP Government & Politics, I not only gained a deeper understanding of our political system, but applied it in my life by participating in advocacy work and an internship with the Senator of Illinois.” – Ava B. ‘26

“St. Francis offers a variety of classes that will fit the interests you may have in any subjects. From the Business Department to the Art Department, there are classes for everyone to enjoy.” – Katie C. ‘26

Around SFHS

National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

Congratulations to our three seniors who have earned the designation of National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists: Ava B., Ian D., and Michael H. Fewer than 1% of high school seniors in the nation are selected as semifinalists!

National Merit Scholarship Commended Students

In addition to our three semifinalists, we have four seniors who have earned National Merit Scholarship Commended status: Margaret A., Carter C., Audrey G., and Bridget L. Congratulations Spartans!

From SFHS to Space

Anya T. ’26 completed an internship program with NASA this summer, and her team’s work has been published online on the NASA website! The 8-week experience affirmed her commitment to enter the Aerospace Engineering field in college. Congratulations, Anya!

You're Invited

Upcoming Varsity Home Matches/Games Go Spartans!

*Subject to change

Thursday, September 25

Girls Tennis vs. DePaul Prep

4:30 p.m.

Loughman Family Tennis Center

Girls Volleyball vs. Montini Catholic (Middle School Night)

6:00 p.m.

Spyglass Athletic Center

Saturday, September 27

Boys Soccer vs. Lisle