Principal's Perspective

As we close out another school year at St. Francis, my heart is filled with gratitude, joy, and anticipation for what lies ahead. What a beautiful way to celebrate the season with our Spring Program! The students lit up the stage with their talent, energy, and spirit, and it was truly a joy to watch.

As I sit down to write this, I’m still taking in the incredible generosity and support shown to our school community during Gala Week on April 12. The current net total raised is over $127,000—and gifts are still coming in. That number represents more than just dollars; it’s a clear statement of your belief in our mission and your commitment to our students and staff.

Last month, our 4th-grade class had a special visitor—Ben Bauer—who stopped by to personally thank Ms. Brenner and her students for their generous donation to his recovery fund. In November, Ben suffered a devastating accident that resulted in the loss of one hand and severe injuries to the other. He shared with the students that their donation will help cover the cost of his prosthetic, a gift that will make a meaningful impact on his journey to recovery.

Catholic schools have long been a vital part of our Church’s mission, providing not just academic excellence but also spiritual formation rooted in faith. At their core, Catholic schools nurture the whole child—mind, body, and soul—through education that integrates Gospel values into everyday learning. But why do Catholic schools matter so much today?

I hope everyone had a joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year! In my family, one of our cherished Christmas traditions is watching the classic film It’s a Wonderful Life. If you haven’t seen it yet, I highly recommend watching the original version—not the abridged one on Amazon Prime! Every year, I’m reminded of the similarities between Bailey’s Building and Loan Association and our beloved St. Francis School.