Answers to Common Questions
Is St. Francis School Accredited?
Our school is accredited through the Western Catholic Education Association (WCEA) with co-accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). St. Francis School goes through a continuous six-year review cycle that focuses on the academic growth of the institution. We follow the Protocol to Improving Student Learning. These Protocols are criteria-based and lead the school to do a comprehensive examination of data/evidence related to the areas of:
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Catholic Identity
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Organization
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Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
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Support Services
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Resources (Enrollment, Finance, Development)
Does St. Francis School prepare students for success in the future economy?
Catholic schools have been on the forefront of innovation for decades with their focus on developing the whole person in Christ. Our school doesn't look at the success of a student by just a grade point average. Instead, we have always developed the entire student in the person of Jesus Christ. This means creating leaders who will go out to change the world. We strive for educating creative, collaborative, and critically thinking students with a wide range of programs and opportunities that drive the necessary skills to lead in the next generation workforce.
What standards are used at St. Francis?
Students are assessed using the Diocesan Standards which include Common Core State Standards (CCSS). When CCSS doesn’t exist, we follow the national standards. Our school meets and exceeds the Common Core Standards in fully developing each individual student’s potential.
Can I afford to send my child to St. Francis School?
We have made a commitment to supporting all families who desire a Catholic education. Financial assistance is available to students, which may be applied for online through FACTS. Comparatively, St. Francis School is one of the most affordable in the diocese. Families seeking financial assistance must apply through FACTS.
Is Catholic school welcoming to all students?
St. Francis School celebrates diversity and understands that we can only grow from understanding each other. Students from all faiths, backgrounds, and cultures are represented in our school. The word “Catholic” means universal, and we strive to make our school communities welcoming to all. Each year, students celebrate Multicultural Day in which classes honor different countries and cultures with performances, informational booths, artifacts and food.
Does St. Francis School offer learning assistance?
St. Francis School takes great pride in meeting the individual learning needs of every student. Our Learning Support Program offers many opportunities for students to receive additional instruction to support them in meeting grade level standards - at no additional cost to parents. Our LSP teachers offer in-class support, as well as specialized instruction for limited periods of time in the area of reading, writing and mathematics.
