St. Francis De Sales High School offers a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on the principles of faith, excellence in Mathematics and Sciences, and a diverse range of Literature and Writing education. Additionally, students choose electives and also participate in our Work Study Program.
Academics
Graduation Requirements
St. Francis de Sales graduation requirements align with the Illinois Board of Higher Education's standards for preparing students for admission to state universities and colleges. These updated requirements enable students to fulfill and surpass the standards set by higher education institutions.
Failure to meet all graduation criteria will result in students being unable to take part in the Baccalaureate Mass or Graduation Exercises.
English | 4 credits |
Math* | *3 or 4 credits |
Science* | *3 or 4 credits |
History | 3 credits |
Physical Ed. | Health | 1 credit |
Foreign Language | 2 credits |
Fine Arts | 1 credit |
Electives | 2 credits |
Theology | 4 credits |
Work Study | 4 credits |
Students must complete a total of 28 credits to graduate. Coursework must include the following:
*Students must take 7 credits total between math and science (i.e. 3 math and 4 science or 4 math and 3 science).
Academic Highlights
Student Assistant
Team
Since 1958, the school’s mission has been to provide a high-quality Catholic education to all who sought it.
Even today, after more than 80 years, we remain committed to upholding this mission. Our Student Assistance Team (SAT) is comprised of teachers who handle referrals for students facing academic and socio-emotional challenges. This team identifies the student's difficulties and collaborates with classroom teachers to establish the necessary support systems to ensure access to the curriculum and academic success. Through the SAT team, we embrace a diverse range of abilities and celebrate the unique strengths that each student brings to our school.
College
Preparation
Our curriculum is designed with college preparation in mind. We have a unique and healthy combination of rigorous course offerings and small class sizes, which affords teachers the opportunity to teach to individual learners, even in very challenging classes.
Additionally, our faculty is comprised of experienced educators who are passionate about their subjects and dedicated to student success. By fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment, we encourage students to take intellectual risks and develop critical thinking skills that are essential for higher education and beyond.
Work Study
Program
The Southside Experience Incubator (SSEi) Work Study Program has been implemented since the fall of 2020. In this program, many sophomores, juniors and seniors go to school four days per week and then go to work in the business world one day per week. Students will earn a 1.0 credit grade for their work performance, based on a five-point rating scale, completed by their corporate supervisor and reviewed by our Work Study Director. Through Work Study, students will gain invaluable work and career experience while enrolled in full-time, college-bound courses. All students attend a work force development class to develop and strengthen their technology, communication and executive functioning skills. Learn more about our SSEi program by clicking the link below!
Co-Curriculars
Programming
We offer a variety of co-curricular opportunities that will develop our students intellectually, spiritually, and physically. We view our clubs and athletic programs as pathways for growth, where students develop leadership skills and discover the full potential of their talents.
Co -Curricular activities vary from year to year depending on student interest and faculty skills. We are committed to continually expanding our offerings to meet the changing needs and interests of our student body. From the arts to sciences, our diverse array of activities ensures that every student finds a niche where they can thrive.
