Student Life

Co-Curriculars

Get Involved! Co-curricular activities are an integral part of making our students well-rounded individuals who are prepared not only for college but for the real world as well.

The high school experience is far from complete without some participation in a co-curricular club or activity. This involvement enhances and supports what is learned in the classroom, helping our students understand the importance of giving back to their community. It is for this reason that student activities exist.

One of the central tenets of an SFHS education is care for the whole person, which comes alive through a myriad of student activities. Students are encouraged to pursue their individual interests, develop their diverse talents, and remain open to growth as they become lifelong learners.

While the list of clubs varies each year based on current students’ interests, here’s a sample of some of the clubs you’ll find at SFHS:

List of 5 items.

  • Academic & Competition* Clubs

    Chinese Culture Club

    Chinese Culture Club introduces students to Chinese traditions, language, and customs through engaging hands-on activities and events. Learn about Chinese festivals, cuisine, and history while connecting with others who share an interest in exploring this vibrant culture.

    Engineering Club

    Engineering Club is for anyone who loves to discover the excitement of learning engineering and problem-solving skills. Each meeting is a different topic and project, with an emphasis on teamwork, collaboration, and an iterative design process.

    Esports*/Coding Club

    Students play and compete in digital games, like Smash Bros., and participate in contests and competitions. Meet new people and climb the leaderboard!

    HOSA

    HOSA stands for Health Occupations Students of America. It is a global student organization dedicated to promoting career opportunities in the healthcare industry. It provides students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, participate in competitive events, and gain hands-on experience in various health-related fields. The organization aims to prepare students for future careers by enhancing their knowledge, skills, and abilities in healthcare.

    Math Team*

    In addition to weekly practices, there are seven math contests each year with nine events to compete in: Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Precalculus, Fr/So 2-person, Jr/Sr 2-person, Fr/So 8-person, Jr/Sr 8-person, Calculator Team, and Orals. The SFHS Math Team has placed in the Top Ten 26 times in the last 29 state competitions!

    Model UN

    Participate in simulations of the United Nations General Assembly. Students argue real-world issues while developing their public speaking, writing, and research skills.

    Robotics Club*

    The Robotics Club is dedicated to designing, building, and programming robots to compete in the prestigious FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC). Through teamwork, innovation, and hands-on learning, members develop problem solving skills and essential STEM skills while fostering a spirit of collaboration and creativity in a competitive environment.

    Scholastic Bowl*

    Scholastic Bowl is a fast-paced, Jeopardy-style academic competition where two teams of students from different schools compete against each other to answer questions about a variety of subjects. The team that answers the most questions wins. Scholastic Bowl is a recognized IHSA team.
  • Athletics & Rec. Activities

    Blue Crew

    Blue Crew generates school spirit and organizes students at home games. All grade levels are invited to cheer on the Spartans!

    Intramurals

    The intramural program runs throughout the entire year. Each season, over 200 students form teams and compete for championships in tennis, volleyball, dodgeball, and pickleball.

    Ping Pong Club

    The Ping Pong Club builds community through the fun of playing ping pong. Anyone at any skill level can come and play.
  • Language Honor Societies

    The Chinese, French, and Spanish Honor Societies are part of national organizations that recognizes students for their dedication and academic achievement in the study of the Chinese, French, and/or Spanish languages. Students who are currently in an honors-level class for their language (Honors III or higher) may apply for this academic honor. The induction ceremony is in April.
  • Leadership Clubs

    Captains & Chaplains

    Captains & Chaplains brings together student-athletes, from across every sport, to take a class focused on discovery and development of personal leadership skills, empowerment of the student-athlete voice, and engagement with the SFHS community.

    NHS

    The National Honor Society recognizes students for their academic success, outstanding character, and dedication to service. This group celebrates and promotes its four pillars: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character. More than a club of academic recognition, NHS members harness these principles to unlock potential, enhancing a student's educational journey, and ultimately empowering them to make profound, enduring contributions to our world. The selection process for NHS is the spring semester each year for sophomores and juniors with a cumulative 4.0 GPA.

    Student Government

    Student Government plays a vital role in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment by organizing events like school dances, homecoming week festivities, Spartan Olympics, and festive student weeks that foster school spirit and community engagement. For a new student, these events provide opportunities to socialize, get involved, and feel a sense of belonging, making their transition into the school community smoother and more enjoyable. New students can get involved in Student Government as a Homeroom Representative.

    SALT (Student Ambassador Leadership Team)

    SALT students are leaders and role models on campus, introducing prospective students and parents to life at SFHS. As SFHS representatives, they share with our prospective students and families their positive, inclusive, and dynamic learning experiences. Being a SALT member is a tremendous privilege and responsibility.

    SMT (Student Ministry Team)

    Student Ministry Team works to organize and lead retreats and other ministry activities. Students represent different grades, teams, and groups through the school, and they work to bring the spirit of Saint Francis and "the Francis Way" to life. The Student Ministry Team participates in a start-of-school retreat each year. Freshman and Sophomore retreats are almost entirely led by Student Ministers. A new team begins every January for the coming year.
  • Special Interest Clubs

    Arts & Crafts Club

    The Arts & Crafts Club is an opportunity to have fun, get creative, and make new Spartan friends! A new project is featured each meeting, ranging from pottery to tie dye and so much more. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert artisan, there is a project for you!

    Chess Club

    A club for those who enjoy playing chess. All experience levels welcome!

    Culinary Club

    Each meeting features a different culinary activity. From making popcorn seasoning and energy bites to taste-testing different types of food.

    D & D Club

    The Dungeons & Dragons Club invites students to embark on epic adventures in a world of imagination, where they can collaborate as heroes, strategize in quests, and develop storytelling skills. Students engage in campaigns, character building in a welcoming community that celebrates creativity and teamwork.

    Fishing Club

    Enjoy nature, learn new fishing techniques, and catch different kinds of fish. An adventure is scheduled for every outing and different styles of fishing are taught (i.e. bow fishing, fly fishing, ice fishing, and more).

    Photography Club

    Embark on a captivating journey through the world of photography! Students of all experience levels engage in activities that enhance skills and foster friendships. From outdoor photo walks to themed photoshoots that challenge artistic perspective, this club promises a wide range of opportunities to express artistry through the lens. Learning, sharing, and collaboration are encouraged. Students will develop their portfolio and showcase photographs at the Art Show in April.

    Pop Culture Club

    Pop Culture Club pursues events and sites that focus on popular elements in popular culture, including entertainment, film museum exhibitions, etc. Students will attend C2E2 (Comicon and Entertainment Exposition) and participate in Cosplay.

    SADD

    SADD stands for Students Against Destructive Decision Making – it’s the HAPPIEST Club at St. Francis High School! Make a difference and take a stand on important topics that affect most high schoolers. This club implements lots of great events in our school community including Red Ribbon Week in October and Mental Health Awareness Week in March.

    Spartan TV

    Spartan TV provides students with the opportunity to produce and broadcast programs to the SFHS community.

    Spirituality Groups (Men’s & Women’s)

    The Men’s and Women’s Spirituality Groups provide a supportive space for students to explore their faith, engage in meaningful discussions, and foster personal growth through shared experiences.

UNIQUE TO SFHS: ACTIVITY PERIOD

The school day ends at 2:30 p.m. That’s when Activity Period starts. During this optional but unique time, SFHS students join clubs, meet with teachers, make up tests, study, or just relax.

PERFORMING ARTS ACTIVITIES – COMING SOON

Upcoming Activities

Co-Curriculars & Clubs Team

List of 2 members.

  • Photo of Maureen Isphording

    Maureen Isphording 

    Assistant Principal of Student Life
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  • Photo of Kathleen Michel '92 Kowalski

    Kathleen Michel '92 Kowalski 

    Teacher/Co-Director of Activities
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St. Francis High School