70 Years of SFHS

70 Years of St. Francis High School

Seventy years ago, founding families came together to build something distinctive: a Catholic high school rooted in faith, formed by community, and dedicated to educating the whole student. Today, that vision continues to set St. Francis High School apart. Our national recognition, state accolades and deep local legacy reflect a tradition of excellence in helping shape young people with character, faith, and an exceptional education. A significant part of who we are is The Francis Way: Serving Others, Encouraging Peace, Seeking Wisdom and Nurturing Relationships. These are four commitments we work diligently to live and model daily, and you can see it in action the moment you step in the door.

Today, we have nearly 700 students from 65 ZIP codes: students who come to us from both private and public middle schools because they see St Francis H.S. as a place to belong, grow and thrive. We have alumni who continue to return to share their knowledge with current students, cheer on teams and send their own children to St. Francis. We have engaged donors who share our belief that it is in giving that we receive and help us build opportunities for our students. We have a building where 96 percent of our students are involved in at least one club or activity and are consistently seeking opportunities to grow in their faith and their service. Athletics and performing arts are second to none.

For the 70 years since breaking ground on this school, SFHS has grown and changed with the times, earning awards for technology while remaining rooted in our original mission. The Francis Way – and all the things we do to reflect those commitments – continues to shape who we are and who we will become. Welcome to Year 70!

Our History

Since classes first began in 1957, St. Francis High School has fostered student achievement and spiritual growth, all in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, our patron.

With the deep dedication of families, alumni, teachers, coaches, faculty, and staff, St. Francis High School continues to develop and thrive.

Timeline Photos

St. Francis High School Timeline

1955 – Bishop McNamara appeals to local parishes to make SFHS a reality
1956 – A groundbreaking ceremony was held on November 11
1957 – First classes were held with freshman and sophomore students, with an enrollment of 390. Faculty comprised of 3 religious orders (Christian Brothers, Franciscan and IBVM Sisters)
1958 – Cafeteria opened to students
1959 – Enrollment increased to 922
1960 – Brother Pius Kamphefner, F.S.C., athletic director, started the sports program
1963 – The East Wing was added to the school
1965 – Mascot was changed from the Knights to the Spartans
1969 – The first coeducational classes began
1974-1982 – SF Prep High (7th & 8th grade) was established to boost enrollment
1986 – New bleachers installed at the football field
1987 – Wood floor installed in the Slantdome
1991 – First Kairos Retreat
2001 – Addition of Spyglass Athletic Center and Kuhn Cultural Arts Center
2004 – Moved from a 7-period to an 8-period day to allow for more electives and fine arts
2009 – The Chapel was remodeled and dedicated to Saint Clare
2011 – Mary J. Feltes Science Suite and Robinson Family Learning Center wing was constructed
2013 – Kuhn Memorial Stadium and Coach Scott Nelson Memorial Track were dedicated
2015 – Lacy Family Gateway building was built to provide home to wrestling and dance teams
2017 – SFHS officially named a Microsoft Showcase School
2022 – SFHS celebrates 65 Years since classes started
2023 – SFHS named a National Blue Ribbon School
2023 – Loughman Family Tennis Center Dedication
2025 – Progress Can’t Wait Capital Campaign: North Hallway Classrooms Updated
2026 – SFHS Celebrates 70 Years Since Breaking Ground
2026 – Progress Can’t Wait Campaign: South Hallway Classrooms Updated
2026 – Project Park Safely. $2.15M Project Adding 105 New Parking Spaces
2026 – SFHS named a Microsoft Showcase School for the 10th Consecutive Year