St. Francis High School Junior Spartan Newsletter

Join Us On The SFHS Path

"Spiritual joy is as necessary to the soul
as blood is to the body"

Saint Francis of Assisi

Welcome

LEADING THE FRANCIS WAY

At St. Francis High School, leadership is not a position; it’s a way of life shaped by The Francis Way. Rooted in the pillars of nurturing relationships, serving others, seeking wisdom, and encouraging peace, our approach to leadership helps students grow to become confident, compassionate individuals prepared for life beyond our halls. As we proudly welcome the Class of 2030 into our Spartan community, we look forward to guiding our newest students as they begin this journey of growth, discovery, and leadership.

Students learn to nurture relationships by collaborating with classmates, mentoring younger students, and building trust within teams, clubs, and organizations. Whether it’s a captain supporting teammates, a club officer welcoming new members, or a student partnering with peers on a group project, Spartans develop the interpersonal skills that form the foundation of strong leadership.

Through countless opportunities to serve others, students put faith into action. Service projects, outreach initiatives, and everyday acts of kindness teach students that true leadership means lifting up others. These experiences foster empathy, responsibility, and a deep understanding that leadership is about impact, not recognition.

By seeking wisdom, students are encouraged to think critically, reflect thoughtfully, and grow from experience. Guided by dedicated faculty and mentors, Spartans learn to ask meaningful questions, make informed decisions, and approach challenges with curiosity and humility, skills that are essential for lifelong learning and success.

Finally, students are called to encourage peace by leading with respect, integrity, and compassion. Whether resolving conflict, standing with others, or creating inclusive spaces, Spartans learn how to be calm, ethical leaders who bring people together.

Through The Francis Way, leadership at St. Francis High School becomes more than preparation for college or careers; it becomes preparation for life. Our students, now including the Class of 2030, graduate ready to lead with purpose, grounded in values that will guide them wherever their paths may lead.

Pace e Bene – Peace and all good.

Patrick Jacobsen

Director of Admissions

Only at St. Francis High School

THIS ISSUE’S FEATURE:

Leadership Opportunities: Building Skills and Enhancing College Profiles

At St. Francis High School, students develop leadership skills by participating in one of our major Leadership Teams. These teams plan key events, lead donation drives, and support important school initiatives, giving students real responsibility and hands-on experience. Students may serve as members or apply for executive leadership roles, gaining skills that support personal growth and strengthen college applications. SFHS’s close-knit community allows students to explore and refine their leadership potential in meaningful ways. Below is an overview of our Leadership Teams:

National Honor Society (NHS): NHS members at St. Francis High School exemplify excellence in Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. Selected students engage in activities such as peer tutoring, school initiatives, and community outreach, contributing to the betterment of both the school and the broader community.

“I think the most important thing about understanding leadership is coming to realize that it is a behavior and not simply a title. After I joined NHS, this became clear to me in my peers, mentors, and the four pillars by which we stand. NHS taught me the lessons to grow into an active leader and gave me the tools to implement persistence, teamwork, service, and outreach into my daily life.”
– Maria K. ‘26

Student Ambassador Leadership Team (SALT): Committed to serving and representing St. Francis High School, SALT members are liaisons, spokespersons, and advocates for the school. They build leadership skills through collaboration with administration, faculty, students, and the Admissions Office, gaining valuable experience through meaningful engagement across the school community.

“SALT has pushed me to grow as a leader by teaching me how to lead with compassion and service. Hosting shadows and connecting with prospective students and families has strengthened my passion and made me realize that leadership is about making others feel seen and welcomed. Through outreach and conversations, I have had, I learned how to communicate our goal clearly and with enthusiasm. SALT has not only helped my leadership skills but also helped our wish to create a supportive and inclusive community for those around me.”

– Alyssa F. ‘28

Student Government: Members of Student Government plan and organize school events, donation drives, and dances while also discussing campus life and identifying ways to enhance the student experience. Students from all backgrounds strengthen their leadership skills and foster a greater sense of responsibility through involvement. Additionally, Student Government members serve as a vital link between the student body and the school community.

“I joined Student Government my junior year as a way to meet new people. I have grown in my communication skills and ability to work with others as a result of my time in Student Government through making decisions on behalf of my classmates and helping to bring fresh ideas towards the school culture. Student government provides many ways to get involved such as coordinating and promoting events and also being a communicator between the student body and our staff for suggestions. The skills I have developed through student government will serve me in the future to prepare for college and to find success after it.”
– Jack B. ‘27

Mission & Ministry Team (MMT): The Mission & Ministry Team is dedicated to following Christ and living in the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi by loving God and others. MMT members play a key role in preparing retreats, leading spiritual activities, and creating opportunities for faith development across the entire student body. Through their involvement, MMT members cultivate leadership skills that help guide others in their spiritual growth.

“Being on the MMT team has made me grow as a leader and meet so many new people. By meeting new people and growing in my relationships with them, I have become more outspoken and open to taking the lead when it is needed in a group.”
– George B. ‘28

Spartan Life Team (SLT): The Spartan Life Team plays a key role in helping our newest members of the community feel at home at St. Francis High School. Through engaging presentations, interactive activities, and peer-led support, SLT fosters meaningful connections between its members and the freshman class. By building community and promoting school spirit, SLT helps incoming students transition confidently into Spartan life.

"Being a member of the Spartan Life Team has had a huge impact on me and given me the opportunity to be a role model. It has helped me become confident in who I am and taught me there is more to public speaking than just reading off of a screen, as well as shown me the importance of showing up and taking responsibility. As I continue to learn and grow, I know the skills I have learned from SLT will help me for the rest of my life."

- Audrey M. '28

Around SFHS

From Equations to Excellence: Spartans Win Big

Congratulations to our six Math Team students who recently competed in the MTA Math Contest at Loyola University! The Spartans delivered an outstanding performance, earning the overall first-place trophy. Individually, Ian D. ’26 placed 1st, Patrick M. ’26 placed 2nd, Michael H. ’26 placed 3rd, Alex G. ’26 placed 4th, and Grace M. ’26 finished 7th.

Spartans Shine in MaxPreps Rankings

The MaxPreps Cup recognizes the best high school sports programs in the country: as of the fall season, SFHS is ranked #4 in Illinois for schools of any size. The competition uses an algorithm that awards points for state championships, runner-up finishes and national rankings in each playoff division..

Spartans Rock Catholic Schools Week

Our Spartan Music Ensemble (Rock Band), Choir, and Jazz Band spent an exciting day visiting four local Catholic grade schools, bringing music and joy to hundreds of students in celebration of Catholic Schools Week. Each performance was full of energy and talent, giving our young audiences a memorable experience and a glimpse of the SFHS music program.

St. Michael Parish School
All Saints Catholic Academy
St. Raphael Catholic School
St. Petronille School

Psychology Meets Parenthood

It’s a classic lesson in adulting! Each year, AP Psychology students take on the role of parent by bringing their “babies” to school, gaining a hands-on understanding of human development and the responsibility, care, and commitment that come with raising a child.

You're Invited

Upcoming Varsity Home Matches/Games Go Spartans!

*Subject to change