Gospel Values, Strong Academics, Essential Skills
St. Francis of Assisi (SFA) School first opened its doors on Feb. 13, 1951. The pastor, Msgr. Joseph Schaeffner, along with the principal, Sister Mary Diana, and her staff of the Sisters of St. Dominic began their work of growing a new school. Within a short time, a strong foundation for Catholic identity and educational achievement in the vibrant and culturally diverse area of Astoria was established.
Now almost 66 years later, St. Francis of Assisi School is very proud to be celebrating the spirit of its founders as it seeks to develop its mission: a “way of life” rooted in Christ and a Catholic vision that provides inspiration and identity to all in the school community. SFA has embraced the Catholic Schools Week theme by enriching its “Community of Faith, Knowledge, and Service,” and is firmly committed to its personal CARE Program.
Instruction has been designed so that students are engaged in cognitively challenging tasks and are actively involved in gaining mastery and proficiency of required skills necessary for success in post-secondary education and in the global arena.
The goal is to teach so that the curriculum supports students’ strengths and helps them develop to their highest potential. SFA wants its students to have true intellectual grit with qualities like diligence, hard work, sustained effort and the ability to focus without getting discouraged by setbacks. The goal is to convince students that they can succeed, and then help them do just that!
For all 21st-century learners, technology tools are crucial to success. Therefore, SFA has developed a technology plan that will keep the school evolving in a modern WiFi environment as competent and responsible users of innovative technology.
In honor of CSW and SFA’s CARE Program, students are partnering with City Harvest and food donors around the city to help New Yorkers facing hunger each day. The school community will also enjoy a Big Apple Breakfast, and show appreciation for its many blessings at a Mass celebrating the school and parish community.
Today’s SFA graduates receive rich Gospel values, extensive knowledge and essential skills that can enable them to become productive and influential Catholic citizens in the worldwide community.
