Congratulations Bob McMillen, Bears Coach of the Week!
St. Francis High School Varsity Football Coach receives award after All-School Mass from the Chicago Bears Organization's Gustavo Silva and Athletico's Justin Schvach.
See Coach McMillen and All-Star Player Tommy R., '21, honored at the
Bears game half-time ceremony on December 22.
Join Us On The St. Francis Path
"Praise and bless my Lord and give Him thanks
and serve Him with great Humility.
"
Saint Francis of Assisi
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Welcome
Everything You Need to Know about the Entrance Exam
The more you know about the High School Placement Test (HSPT), the more you may come to welcome this layer of experience as a great reference point when students begin their actual college search. The HSPT is the standardized test high schools across the country use to determine admission. Beyond admission, the HSPT also provides great insight into what classes best fit students as freshmen at St. Francis High School. The entrance exam takes place Saturday, December 7, 8:00 a.m., at St. Francis High School. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
Test Basics-
The HSPT measures basic and cognitive skills. It's divided into five sections: verbal, quantitative, reading, math, language. The format is multiple choice and includes about 300 questions. The test lasts about 2 ½ hours.
Deadlines-
All Catholic high schools in the Diocese of Joliet administer the HSPT on Saturday, December 7. Eighth graders test at the high school where they are applying. You may register for the test at St. Francis High School by December 3.
Students who test at St. Francis receive priority consideration and eligibility for merit scholarships. Most high schools, including SFHS, ask students to take the test once.
Testing Tips- Listen, follow testing directions, and read carefully. Students are encouraged to never leave a question blank.
How to prepare- The middle school curriculum should suffice to prepare students for the HSPT, however many students look online for practice tests. Some study at home with HSPT study guides. Others attend weekly classes to become familiar with the test. Additional preparation is optional.
What to Bring- Students should bring two Number 2 pencils. Calculators and cell phones are not allowed.
When to Call- If your student is unavailable to test on December 7, call the SFHS Admissions Office at (630) 668-5800, ext. 1120. Also, students who have an education plan that allows for extra time on school tests may qualify for extra time on the HSPT. For consideration, SFHS requires a copy of the student's IEP/504 Plan with their application when registering for the entrance exam.
Results- SFHS will send admission decision letters and test results in mid-January.
There's still time to shadow before the test as well as attend the Parent Information Session on November 13 at 9:00 a.m., click here to register.
You also may register for the Entrance Exam today click here to register. Exceptional college prep, distinctive community spirit, unlimited opportunity, that is the St. Francis path. I encourage you to visit and find more at St. Francis High School. Please call me any time if you have questions or need help.
Sincerely,
Maureen Isphording, Director of Admissions
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"I Am St. Francis"
The Transfer Parent Perspective: 7 Questions for Debbie & Danny Mulhearn (parents of Zach, '21) and Cathy & John Price (parents of Jane, '20)
1. What grade school did your child attend?
Debbie & Danny Mulhearn:
Edison Middle School. Our son transferred from Wheaton Warrenville South after his freshman year.
Cathy & John Price:
Jane attended Wayne Elementary and Elgin Academy.
2. What activities does your child participate in at SFHS? As a parent, have you been involved in activities as well?
Debbie & Danny Mulhearn:
Zach is involved in Hockey (Co-op club), Varsity Golf, Student Ambassador Leadership Team, National Honor Society, and Intramurals. As parents, we have attended Morning coffees with the counselors and St. Francis' Annual Spring Auction.
Cathy & John Price:
Jane has been on Varsity Tennis all three years that she has been at St. Francis. She has also been involved in Student Government, French National Honor Society, National Honor Society and Intramural Pickleball.
3. Describe the process of selecting SFHS with your child.
Debbie & Danny Mulhearn:
We allowed our son to choose, and he chose a public high school originally. Soon after beginning his freshman year, however, he decided it was not the atmosphere he wanted and asked to visit St. Francis. When we picked Zach up from his shadow day, he said he immediately wanted to apply and transfer to St. Francis. By far, the best decision that our son has made.
Cathy & John Price:
Jane was ready to change high schools and thought that she might want to go to a boarding school. We decided to look at St. Francis first, so we scheduled a shadow day. She liked the school but wanted to still visit a boarding school, so we did. After the boarding school visit, she said, "I want to go back to St. Francis and shadow again." She did, and the rest is history. Jane has said that it the single best decision she has ever made.
4. What do you consider to be some of the most important characteristics of a high school community? How does SFHS measure up?
Debbie & Danny Mulhearn:
The high school community is impactful because it is during the most influential time in our children's growth. In our short time at SFHS, our son feels like he has been there from day one and has found the right place to grow academically, socially, and spiritually. The focus at St. Francis is finding the right balance and educating the whole person. We receive regular communication from leadership showing us positive vision/direction. Teachers and administrators uphold and communicate high expectations and student accountability. Also, our son has had some of the best teachers, ones he has much respect and appreciation for, and ones that are educating our son at the highest level. Since transferring to St. Francis, he has a sense of belonging and joy back in his daily life, and we have seen his confidence and maturity blossom as a person since attending St. Francis-all hard to do with a high school boy.
Cathy & John Price:
We were looking for a balanced environment, academics, athletics and socialization, building lifelong friendships. St. Francis has been better than we could ever imagine. Yes, it is a college prep school; it is academically rigorous, but there is a TON of support from the teachers, coaches, and faculty. They not only teach the students but also get to know the students and care about them. It is really like an extension of the family. Regarding athletics, Jane has been on the Varsity Tennis team with Coaches Tom Castronovo, Maria Guilli, and Mark Sawko, and they knock it out of the park. She has been to State three years in a row, and they have been there for her every step of the way. Finally, friendships. Jane has built friendships with all different types of people, some like her and others that are different, but there is a respectful environment at St. Francis. When she transferred that is the word she used, respect. She said, "There is respect at St. Francis, with the students AND the teachers."
5. What has been most surprising about your SFHS experience as a parent?
Debbie & Danny Mulhearn:
Maybe not surprising, but most pleasing is how our son has not "skipped a beat" either academically or socially. He has been welcomed and accepted for who he is, and that is most satisfying. Also, the ease of him navigating his daily education utilizing his Surface Pro and online communication from every teacher has been very impressive. With every teacher using and communicating all lesson plans, homework, meeting times, etc., our son has one place to find all of his responsibilities. It puts the ownership of his education on him. Skills much needed before they go to college!
Cathy & John Price:
The Mass. I (Cathy) am not Catholic, but I cry every time I go. There is a feeling of togetherness, calmness, support, and respect.
6. What is your hope for your child as they navigate high school?
Debbie & Danny Mulhearn:
Teenagers are so vulnerable to influence, both good and bad. Our hope is that Zach maintains his path (his passion for excellence in academics, athletics, and social activity) while supporting his faith. We know he has found a "home" at St. Francis, an atmosphere that allows him to be him, a healthy environment to grow into a well-balanced young man.
Cathy & John Price:
My hope was that Jane would meet some friends, do well academically, and play tennis. Academically, socially, and athletically, Jane has thrived at St. Francis. The community encourages kids to get involved in lots of things. It's not enough to be just an athlete, they're always pushing you to be the best you can be. They do this in a caring way. She often talks to her teachers, not necessarily about their class-maybe it's about her brother who went into the Marines or advice on colleges-they are there for her.
7. What advice do you have to families with children in grammar school beginning to consider high schools?
Debbie & Danny Mulhearn:
Encourage your child to find a place they feel comfortable growing academically, socially, and spiritually. Finding a place to nurture all three of these areas is so important in the development of our kids today. SFHS could not be outdone, in our minds, with respect to taking our child in and giving him the tools, support, and encouragement he needs to grow. WE ARE ... BALANCED AND ASSURED.
Cathy & John Price:
I would have your child shadow at more than one school. They will know the school that feels right for them. Have your child ask LOTS of questions when they shadow. Every child is different, and you need to find the best fit. We have been thrilled with the experience at St. Francis High School. We are also thankful to have met so many wonderful people. WE ARE ... THRILLED.
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Only at St. Francis High School
A Parent's Guide to Opportunity in SFHS Mathematics
"Teachers love what they do."
"Teachers are with you not against you."
"Teachers really care about their students, not just academically, but their well-being too."
Those are student comments about the SFHS math experience. Is the positivity surprising? Department teachers love math and create a path to fulfill each student's math potential. But how much does this supportive atmosphere matter academically?
Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D., author of "Mindset," the SFHS All-School Leadership study aid, explains, "In one study, high school students talked about their math teachers. Some of them said that when they were stuck, their teachers sat down with them and said things like this: 'Show me what you've done, let's try to understand how you're thinking, and then let's figure out what you should try next.' The students who were treated like this-as though understanding was of paramount importance and could be achieved with support from the teacher-were moving toward a growth mindset in math."
SFHS students describe teachers who rigorously train students in the classroom while respecting individual learning styles and developing the whole person, even in math class. Academic excellence combined with a transformative math appreciation describes one aspect of the SFHS Math Department, which offers a wide range of coursework for students at all levels and a flexible curriculum that allows students to work to their strengths without tracking.
Department Overview:
The Mathematics Department teaches mathematics not only for its intrinsic value but also, following the STEM curriculum model, to help students to learn to ask questions, define a problem, obtain and evaluate information, use appropriate tools to analyze and interpret data, and design a solution. Using ACT Readiness Standards, the Mathematics department develops each student's ability to think analytically and creatively, and improving problem solving skills as a result. The curriculum provides opportunities for our students to practice logical thinking, organization, communication, and technology skills. The Mathematics Department provides a challenging and rewarding college prep program that empowers all students to realize their mathematical potential and to appreciate the value of mathematics. The Department boasts a total of 128 years of teaching experience, six master's degrees, and one Ph.D.
Graduation requirement: 3 credits, must include Algebra and Geometry
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Freshman
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Sophomore
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Junior
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Senior
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Standard Placement Options
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Algebra Concepts & Applications |
Geometry Concepts & Applications |
Advanced Algebra |
*Precalculus I & *Finite |
| Algebra 1 |
Geometry |
Advanced Algebra |
*Precalculus I & *Trig or *Finite |
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Accelerated/
Honors Placement
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Algebra I |
Honors Geometry |
Honors Adv. Algebra Trig |
Honors Precalculus |
| Geometry |
Advanced Algebra |
*Precalculus I & *Trig |
Calculus or *Intro to Stats & *Finite |
| Honors Geometry |
Honors Adv. Algebra Trig |
Honors Precalculus or Honors
Precalculus & AP Statistics |
AP Calc AB or AP Calc BC &/or AP Statistics |
| Honors Adv. Algebra Trig |
AP Statistics |
Honors Precalculus |
AP Calculus AB or AP Calculus BC |
*Designates a one semester course
Quick Questions with Department Chair, Kristina Abbott:
1.
How does a student get placed into math class freshman year?
A student's initial placement is based on their math score on the entrance exam as well as information we receive from the middle school. If a student would like to take Geometry or Honors Geometry their freshman year, then they have to take the Placement Test in April to show proficiency in Algebra 1. We use that score for placement into Geometry or Honors Geometry typically, sometimes higher.
2.
How can a student get help when needed?
If a student needs help with math, all of the math teachers are available before or after school most days to tutor. A student should talk to their teacher to set up a time to meet. Additionally, two days a week there are Math Study Groups in the library with National Honor Society members, if a student feels more comfortable working with peers.
3.
How is technology incorporated into math lessons?
All of the math teachers use OneNote to distribute note sheets and worksheets. Students take notes on their Surface Pro devices during class, and most teachers allow students to complete their homework in OneNote as well. Additionally, the Math Department teaches students how to use a graphing calculator starting in freshmen year so that they are proficient by the time they take the ACT/SAT during junior year. The Geometry classes also use a program on the computers called Geogebra to do labs that explore the properties and formulas they are studying.
4.
Math can be a challenging subject for some learners. How do you make your lessons engaging for students and also relevant to life?
We try and show the students how different lessons connect to each other and how content they learned in previous classes is applicable later on. We do ACT/SAT prep in our junior level classes so they see how all of the material they have been learning throughout high school will come together for college. We use word problems and projects to show students where math is used in everyday life. For example, the Pre-Calculus classes do a dream car project when they are working on interest and exponential equations to see how car financing works. In Honors Pre-Calculus, we also introduce check writing and balancing a check book.
A Sample of Experiences that Complement the Department
- Math Team - Open to students with a special interest or talent in mathematics.
*Math Team has placed in the top 10 at State 22 times in the last 25 years.
- Junior High Math Contest--Hosts middle school competitors each year.
*This year's contest is Saturday, January 11, 2020.
- Peer Tutoring - Both National Honor Society and Math Team members are available for tutoring weekly and upon request.
*No charge to students.
- Pi Day - March 14 is celebrated as Pi Day, as it falls on the 14th day of the 3rd month, or 3.14, the first three digits of pi.
*Pi is the ratio of the circumference of a circle to the diameter of the circle.
More from the Classroom
Student Becca W., '20
: "If any student has a question, the teachers will actually take time to stop to make sure everyone understands before moving on. The teachers really care about their students, not just academically, but their well-being too."
Student Eddie M., '21:
"They (the teachers) are with you not against you. People always think math teachers are trying to trick their students, but not at St. Francis! This year especially I always go to my teacher and she helps every time. They want you to succeed and are willing to always go over test; willing to put in time before school, after school, anytime."
Student Darlene Z., '20:
"They love what they do. Plus, they are energetic about the subject, which motivates us students."
Red Ribbon Week Theme "Flourish" Makes a Difference in Drug Awareness
Sharing in national Reb Ribbon Week efforts to raise awareness of destruction decisions, SFHS participated with the theme "Flourish: Make a Difference in Your Life & the Life of Others." From October 28 to November 1, SFHS emphasized the importance of making positive and healthy personal decisions. Each day's activity provided opportunity for education, fun, and service.
Sponsored by Students Against Destructive Decisions, the Counseling Department, and faculty volunteers, the week's highlights included lunchtime Cookie Decorating & Cider for a Cause (donations to Advocate Hospice), After-School Blanket Making for Advocate Hospice, Therapy Dogs to "Relax after a RUFF Day" with Naperville Humane Society, "Too Smart to Start" Vaping Information by Nurse Schmidt, Mix-It-Up Lunchtime Seating, and "Make Someone Smile This Halloween" thank you card writing to a student or faculty member who has made a positive difference.
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Beyond Admissions Events - You're Invited
St. Francis Speaker Series Invites Prospective Parents
Each year, SFHS Counseling and College Prep offers powerful speakers on relevant topics and welcome prospective parents to attend the events. Scan the list and see what topics may make an impact with your family. All events free of charge.
"Exploring Ways to Restore, Replenish, and Refocus Our Hearts and Mind."
Wednesday, November 20, 2019 8:00-9:30 a.m.
Presenter: Dr. Diane Mercadante, Pastoral Minister at St. Francis High School
Our world is restless, and it never ceases. We run from one thing to another. Even in moments of rest and silence, our minds race. We habitually turn to email, texting, and Twitter. We quickly feel uneasy, unquiet, agitated. What is the antidote? Come and explore ways to allow God to restore, replenish, and refocus our hearts and minds.
"The Critical Voice: To Whom Are You Listening?"
Wednesday, January 29, 2020 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Presenter: Dr. Ann Letourneau from the Central DuPage Pastoral Counseling Center
Do you ever find yourself thinking, "I can't do this?" While many of us have such inner dialogue, do we ever consider what life might be like without that critical voice? This workshop will help participants begin to find a self-acceptance that leads to freedom. Participants will also practice skills and integrate faith to find a more balanced inner voice.
"Motivation"
Tuesday, March 4, 2020 at 8:30-10:00 a.m.
Presenter: Nicole Burmingham from Nurturing Wisdom
It's not uncommon for teens to lose their spark when it comes to school. While it's easy to chalk it up to disinterest or laziness, that's usually not the case. Students thrive when we take a more nuanced approach. This talk will unpack the complex psychology behind motivation and share tips to help children rediscover their passion for learning.
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Upcoming Events
Campus Tours
November 9
Rise Up, Leadership Conference for 8th grade students
November 13
Info Session for Prospective Parents, 9:00 a.m.
December 7
January 11
Boys Basketball Middle School Night
January 11
Pep Band Middle School Night
Click here to register
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2019 Viewbook
Admissions Video
Feast of St. Francis
We hope you enjoy our talented choir singing the prayer of St. Francis
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Thanks for reading
Maureen
Isphording
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St. Francis High School Fast Facts
COLLEGE PREPARATORY:
Enrollment: 685
CLASS OF 2019-
100% of graduates were accepted to colleges or universities
Earned $27 million in college scholarships
ACADEMIC
74% of faculty have advanced degrees
Class of 2019 average ACT score = 27
123 Full year and semester course offerings
21 Honors courses
16 Advanced Placement (A.P.) courses
CO-CURRICULAR: ACTIVITIES & ATHLETICS
98% student participation in at least one activity
24 sports programs
10th Place Division 2A State Math Team
65% of students participate in the performing arts
73% 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.
For more information, fees, route schedules or questions, please contact Bob Gorski at (630) 668-5800 x1138 or at
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