St. Francis High School Junior Spartan Newsletter

Join Us On The SFHS Path

"Happy is he who places all his joy and happiness in the holy words and works of God, and who leads others to His holy love in joy, happiness, and bliss."

Saint Francis of Assisi

Welcome

How the Spirit of Saint Francis Shapes Student Success

Our school community is grounded in the Franciscan values of love, service, and joy. Inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi, these values guide how we support students and help them grow in meaningful ways. Here are three ways his spirit lives on in our community.

This Community Cares, Just Like Saint Francis

Saint Francis was known for his compassion and deep care for others. We reflect this by placing students at the heart of all we do. Through dedicated faculty, engaging co-curricular programs, innovative Microsoft Showcase School classrooms, and a strong Counseling Department, students are supported and encouraged every step of the way.

This Community Radiates Joy, Just Like Saint Francis

Saint Francis lived with joy and peace, and we strive to do the same. Students learn about his life and values in their religion classes and are encouraged to live out peace, love, and kindness in their daily lives, helping create a positive and welcoming school environment.

This Community Values Strength and Action, Just Like Saint Francis

Saint Francis took brave steps to live out his purpose. In that spirit, we encourage students to recognize their strengths and challenge themselves academically. Our four-year academic plan prepares students for college with confidence, purpose, and a strong foundation for the future.

We invite you to learn more about our Franciscan community and how we support student success. Schedule a meeting with me or sign up for a campus tour to experience our school firsthand. We would love to welcome you and your family and answer any questions you may have.

Pace e Bene – Peace and all good.

Patrick Jacobsen

Director of Admissions

Only at St. Francis High School

THIS ISSUE’S FEATURE:

OUR FAITH: THE HEARTBEAT OF

ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL

At St. Francis High School, faith is the foundation of our community. Grounded in our Catholic identity, we walk alongside students as they grow academically, spiritually, and personally, helping them recognize God’s presence in their lives and prepare for a purposeful future.

Christian Service: Faith in Action

Christian Service is central to the SFHS experience. Students engage in meaningful service that connects their faith to real-world needs. Through hands-on opportunities and immersion experiences, students grow in compassion, social responsibility, and a lifelong commitment to serving others.

Retreats: Time to Reflect and Renew

Our retreat program invites students to step away from daily demands to pray, reflect, and deepen their relationship with God. Led by students and guided by faith, retreats provide space for personal growth, spiritual renewal, and community building. From required retreats to the senior Kairos experience, students of all backgrounds find opportunities for transformation and connection.

Campus Worship Life: Celebrating Our Faith Together

Celebration of the Eucharist and communal prayer are woven into daily life at SFHS. Students gather regularly for Mass, prayer, and school-wide worship experiences that unite the community in faith. Through active participation as ministers, musicians, and leaders, students live out their faith at the heart of the school community.

The Student Perspective:

What does FAITH at SFHS mean to you?

“Faith at St. Francis has been a key factor in my development as person and in my relationship with God through many experiences that the school offers such as service activities, religion class, and school mass.”

– Chase E. ’27 (St. Petronille)

“I’ve been able to grow in my faith through the many opportunities St. Francis offers its students. The faith-based clubs have allowed me to connect with people I may not have met in class, in a meaningful and unique way, bonded through our shared faith.”

– Annabel J. ’26 (St. Mary Mokena)

“St. Francis has provided me with an opportunity to grow in my spiritual path with God. Especially getting the opportunity to go on retreats with peers to get closer with God with not only ourselves but with everyone around us.” – Joey B. ’26 (Holy Cross)

“During the past two years at St. Francis, the staff, as well as the Mission & Ministry Team, have allowed me to actively grow my relationship with God. Teachers have provided me countless service opportunities, giving me the ability to spread the same kindness that has been given to me. I am incredibly grateful for these experiences.” – Ella D. ’28 (Avery Coonley)

Around SFHS

Celebrating Excellence

Our recent National Honor Society Induction Ceremony proudly welcomed the outstanding inductees from the Classes of 2027 and 2028. Congratulations to all students recognized for their dedication, leadership, and achievement!

Math Team Shines at State Once Again

The Math Team recently competed at the ICTM State Math Contest and earned an impressive 10th‑place finish overall. This achievement continues SFHS’s remarkable Top 10 streak, with the team placing among the state’s best 28 times in the last 31 contests. Congratulations as well to Ian D. ’26 and Michael H. ’26, who were crowned State Champions in the Orals Presentation Competition!

Still on Top: Spartan Athletics Leads the Way

With the fall and winter sports seasons now complete, SFHS remains #1 in the Daily Herald Cup athletic rankings for small schools. Congratulations to our dedicated student‑athletes, coaches, and the entire Spartan community for another outstanding stretch of success!

A Day at C2E2: Exploring Pop Culture in Chicago

Each year, Mr. Schuller brings students to C2E2 at McCormick Place in Chicago, giving them the chance to dive into the exciting world of comics, graphic novels, pop culture, and more. It looks like an incredible experience for everyone involved!

Honoring Family: Grandparents' Day at SFHS

It is always a joy to see our students connect with their grandparents here on campus. Twice each year, we proudly host Grandparents’ Day—welcoming seniors and their grandparents in the fall and freshmen and their grandparents in the spring. The day includes a meaningful Mass and a light breakfast shared with a grandparent or special adult, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Mrs. Giovenco and Mr. Uher recently took 23 sophomore English students to the Cadillac Theatre to see The Great Gatsby musical. This trip is yet another wonderful example of our teachers going the extra mile to create meaningful and memorable learning experiences beyond the classroom.