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"Happy is he who attributes all he has to God."  

Saint Francis of Assisi 

Welcome

Happy Thanksgiving from St. Francis High School!

As we gather with family and friends to celebrate this season of gratitude, we at St. Francis High School are especially thankful for our wonderful community. We are grateful every day for our caring and dedicated teachers, our supportive counselors, coaches, and staff members, and our amazing students and families who make SFHS such a vibrant and faith-filled place to learn and grow.

This season also brings exciting moments to celebrate and an electric buzz in our halls. Congratulations again to Girls Cross Country on their outstanding 2nd place finish at the IHSA State Meet, and best of luck to Spartan Football as they prepare for the State Championship game on Saturday. Your hard work, spirit, and teamwork inspire us all.

As we look ahead, we are excited to welcome the next generation of Spartans at the Class of 2030 Entrance Exam on Saturday, December 6, 2025. Take the next step toward joining the SFHS family by registering here. Students who take the exam at SFHS are eligible for 35+ scholarships and priority admission consideration!

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful, restful, and blessed Thanksgiving. We are grateful for you today and always.

Pace e Bene—Peace and all good.

Patrick Jacobsen

Director of Admissions

Only at St. Francis High School

THIS ISSUE’S FEATURE:

Why We're Thankful for the SFHS Experience

At St. Francis High School, we are grateful for the people, programs, and values that shape our students each day. Guided by The Francis Way; nurturing relationships, serving others, seeking wisdom, and encouraging peace, our community thrives.

We are thankful for our status as one of only 31 Microsoft Showcase Schools in the nation. With 1:1 Surface Pro 9 devices, students collaborate, think critically, and build real-world digital skills, reflecting our commitment to seeking wisdom through purposeful innovation.

We are thankful for personalized support that nurtures relationships and prepares students for life after high school. Our five counselors and 17 college-planning sessions ensure every student receives guidance tailored to their unique path, from freshman study skills to individualized college counseling.

We are thankful for academic opportunities that inspire students to grow with confidence. Through 17 AP courses, college credit options, and the Illinois Seal of Biliteracy, Spartans challenge themselves and achieve remarkable outcomes—1 in 4 graduates attends a Top 50 university, and 95% earn scholarships averaging $169,811.

We are thankful for a community rooted in service and peace, where students grow through both outreach and reflection. Our retreat program gives students space to deepen their faith, strengthen friendships, and reflect on who they are becoming. These experiences build personal growth while bringing classmates closer together.

Most of all, we are thankful for an SFHS experience that blends innovation, faith, and mission, preparing students to thrive in college and beyond while living the Francis Way every day.

Around SFHS

SPARTAN FOOTBALL IS STATEBOUND!!

Congratulations on reaching the Class 5A State Championship! The Spartans will face off against Providence Catholic on Saturday, November 29, 10:00 a.m. at Hancock Stadium on the campus of Illinois State University.

SFHS Rocked State Volleyball

SFHS Rock Band lit up the ISU arena, bringing the energy as the official House Band for the IHSA Girls Volleyball State Finals!

Spartans Leading in Peoria

SFHS was well represented at the IHSA Student Leadership Conference in Peoria. Liam S., Ryan C., Brody J., Caroline K., Talia E., Alyssa F., and Audrey O. engaged in breakout sessions and heard from keynote speakers focusing on life skills and mental health. We're proud of you Spartans!