Web Address:
www.stfrancishighschool.com
Name & Address:
St. Francis High School
233 W. Broadway
Louisville, Kentucky 40202
(502)736-1000
Head of School:
Alexandra S. Thurstone '84
Director of Admissions:
Suzanne Gorman
502-736-1009
Type of School:
Grades 9 through 12
Size of school:
129 students
Mission Statement:
St. Francis High School prepares students academically and personally for college and life in a rigorous educational environment that
challenges them to think independently, respect individuality, and act with
integrity.
General Information:
A St. Francis High School graduate is a confident, well-rounded young person who is ready to meet the challenges of a demanding university and life beyond. Our curriculum is designed to empower students to think creatively and critically, to question and share ideas intelligently, and to express themselves honestly and articulately, both in writing and speech. More than most schools, St. Francis is truly a "school of thought" (as its motto pledges), because its policies and programs are based on the belief that every student deserves to be regarded as a capable, valuable individual with something unique to offer the world.
St. Francis is a co-ed, independent high school located in the real world of downtown Louisville. The vibrant urban setting teaches our students to move comfortably in modern society, to tap resources of museums, libraries, government agencies, and the arts. We volunteer 1,000 hours each month at a variety of community service sites and play an active role everyday in the life of the city. Naturally, the college-preparatory curriculum includes all the core subjects -- Math, Science, English, History, Art, Foreign Language, P.E. -- as well as Advanced Placement classes and specialized elective offerings. Every senior must also prepare and publicly present a special Senior Project, focused on a topic of their own choice. College coursework and independent studies are available for students who have the desire to work beyond the standard offerings.
Just as students are active in the classroom and the community, the Wyverns of St. Francis compete in seven varsity sports (field hockey, soccer, basketball, volleyball, cross-country, track and tennis) and six club sports (crew, fencing, rock climbing, ultimate frisbee, racquetball, and wallyball). Other extra-curricular activities engage students in Drama,
Newspaper and Yearbook production, Science Olympiad, Math League, Chess, French Club, Governor's Cup competition, Quick Recall, and an International Club.
Every student at St. Francis influences the direction of his or her school.
Students designed and operate the discipline system; the School Committee allows representatives from each grade to consult with and advise the Dean and Head on matters of school policy and curriculum options; all classes and instructors are anonymously evaluated at mid-year by students, so improvements can be made before the course ends. St. Francis High School trusts and respects its students and staff, while insisting they live up to their responsibilities. By encouraging expression, participation, and compassion, and operating under common-sense rules, we have created a community of learners who appreciate what true learning is all about and thrive in the futures they choose. It's not surprising to hear so many of our graduates credit their St. Francis High School experience with making the difference in their lives.