troubie St. Francis High School
MAGAZINE 2011
the insider’s guide to page 10
guidance
science
under the microscope
page 26 Photo by Pinkie Pictures
inside
WHAT’S
Welcome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Perspectives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 & 36 The Pillars of St. Francis High School. . . . . . . . . . . 6 Connect with Campus Ministry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Insider’s Guide to Guidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Team Up with Academic Teams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Jump Right In: Student Activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Homecoming. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Athletics: It’s Great to be an SF Troubadour . . . . 18 The Arts: Express Yourself. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 English: The Write Stuff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Foreign Language: Hola. Ciao. Bonjour. Ave.. . . . . 23 St. Francis is on Facebook
“Like” our page to connect with people and events on campus, see photos and videos, and share your comments. It’s a glimpse into all things Troubie – catch the spirit!
Mathematics: Count on It!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Physical Education: Healthy Habits. . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Science: Under the Microscope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Social Studies: Blast from the Past. . . . . . . . . . . . 27
The square “bar codes” that you will find on some of the pages of this magazine are called QR Codes. You can “read” these codes if you have a smart phone and a “QR Code Reader” app. Search the internet for “QR Code Reader” and you will find links to a variety of QR Code Reader apps, many of which are free. Download an app to your phone, Facebook: http://on.fb.me/SFHSSAC then capture the QR Code using Page 4: http://bit.ly/sfhswelcome the app to view some messages Page 8: http://bit.ly/sfhsservice and videos created just for you! Page 14: http://bit.ly/sfhsfashion (They can also be accessed on a Page 17: http://bit.ly/pennywar computer using these URL’s.) Page 19: http://bit.ly/sfhssports Page 21: http://bit.ly/sfhsconcert
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Technology: High (School) Tech. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Library: For Your Reference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Theology: Catch the Spirit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Sisterhood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 The Tradition Continues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Troubie Timeline. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Thank you Pinkie Pictures & Pro Imgae Studio for providing many of the photographs in this magazine.
Is St. Francis the high school for you? Get a glimpse into the lives of the Troubadours through the stories and photos in this magazine. Then we hope you’ll join us on our beautiful campus for Open House (October 9) and a shadow day to really capture the SF spirit!
catch the
Spirit!
Spirit section at a Volleyball game troubie MAGAZINE 3
welcome!
open house For Prospective Students & Families October 9, 2011 • 1:00 - 4:00pm Tour the St. Francis campus and speak with administrators, teachers, students and parents about all the opportunities St. Francis has to offer.
shadow days See more with your phone
Snap this code with a QR reader on your mobile phone, and watch a video from the 2011 Student Body Officers.
During the fall, the Admissions Office arranges “shadow days” for the eighth grade girls from our diocesan Catholic schools. The eighth graders are partnered with a St. Francis “shadow buddy” who takes them to classes, introduces them to friends and answers any questions they have. Any interested 8th grade girl attending a non-diocesan school may arrange a shadow day by calling or emailing the Admissions Office.
perspectives
Students, alumnae and parents share their thoughts about St. Francis High School.
One of the best days I’ve had at St. Francis was Empty the Lot 2011. On Empty the Lot Day, Campus Ministry promotes different modes of transportation so we can literally empty the parking lot and “go green” for the day. I carpooled to school with my friends and saw others walking, taking public transportation, riding their bikes, cruising on their scooters, and rocking out on their rollerblades. We used all the extra parking lot space to have a party during community lunch; playing music, blowing bubbles, eating snow cones, playing jump rope, going down huge inflatable slides, jumping in the jump house, eating free food, drawing with chalk and so much more! The sun was shining down, and it was the perfect day. I remember looking around and thinking to myself, “Wow, only at St. Francis.” What a blessing it is to be at SFHS!
Jasmine Florentino ’13
The liturgical, retreat, and service programs here at school are more ways that the school builds a community. The retreats are amazing and life changing!
Nicole Bellini ’11
St. Francis is a school of leadership. I am part of the Muslim Student Association at St. Francis. In the MSA, a few other girls and I organize assemblies for justice, equality, and awareness. One of my favorites was when the MSA club organized a huge fundraiser for victims of the earthquake in Pakistan. The project was so inspirational and moving. It’s great to be at a school where helping and leading others is recognized as such a great gift.
Haleemah Afzal ’13
We went to great lengths for Grace’s older sister Claire to be able to come down from Tahoe to attend St. Francis High school, because I thought it would be a good fit. St. Francis has proved to be a wonderful environment for Claire, and Grace has experienced the school through summer school classes and attending school events. She has been waiting for the day that she would be able to attend St. Francis with great anticipation. I feel that St. Francis provides my daughters with an environment that allows them to discover who they are, without pressure to be a certain way or do certain things in order to belong. I’ve found the environment there to be very nurturing.
Charlotte Rosburg, Claire ’12 & Grace ’15
I chose to attend SF because of the phenomenal dance program. Although dance is great, it was the students and teachers who won me over.
Abigail Bisi ’12
Our family just loves St. Francis! It is the perfect environment for the young women that attend. The faculty and staff at St. Francis bring so much to the table for these young women, by teaching the core of strong values in a very loving environment. Attending St. Francis has been such a blessing to my oldest daughter Katheryn, we could not imagine Christen attending any place else. She is so looking forward to becoming a Troubadour! As a family, we look forward to her enjoying her next 4 years, doing well academically, spiritually, and making relationships that will last a lifetime.
Elizabeth Hughes, Katheryn ’12 & Christen ’15
I was really touched by the Every 15 Minutes program that our school took part in. Not only was it an eyeopener about the multitude of effects of drinking and driving, but it struck everyone deeply. We all realized just how important we are to each other and that one stupid mistake could take everything away in matter of seconds. I truly appreciate how our school brought that program to us because it shows how much St. Francis cares about and cherishes its students.
Taylor Semon ’13
I always hear stories about people who don’t feel like there are nice people at their school but I think SF is overflowing with them! I’ve met such funny, kindhearted girls in my two years here and I can’t wait to grow closer with them.
Bianca Dunn ’13
I chose SF because it seemed like the best fit for me. It offered many opportunities I was interested in that other school simply didn’t have.
Emily Martis ’13
I enjoy the great diversity it offers. I enjoy how open minded everyone is and the large range of classes offered at St. Francis.
Nida Ahmed ’13
I enjoy all the activities we have at SF. It is a flat out, fun place to be.
Shannon Williams ’14
The best characteristics of St. Francis are the teachers. They provide such helpful comments and they want me to succeed. I loved the individual attention that I received.
Pauline Meehan ’11
I enjoy the spirit. St. Francis never disappoints when it joins a cause or does something just for fun. I especially enjoy Halloween and the canned food drive during Homecoming.
Ellen Dahl ’13
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pillars of SFHS faith, excellence, leadership and service
How does one measure success? At St. Francis, we know that success is more than SAT scores, Section banners on the gym wall, and SRO theatre performances. The success of a Troubie is something she alone can measure as she sets her own goals and strives for personal growth in faith, excellence, leadership and service. St. Francis endeavors to provide the framework - in academic and extracurricular programs led by supportive faculty and staff - for each student to find her strength and passion, help her develop it to her fullest potential, and use her knowledge and experience for “Pax et Bonum” – peace and goodness (the SFHS motto).
Chelsea Saurer ’13 and Natasha De Sousa ’13
Sophomore Class Pillar of Service Award
Pillars of the SFHS Community
St. Francis High School prides itself as a community of faith, excellence, leadership and service. As such, we acknowledge and celebrate those who lead lives dedicated to these qualities. Each spring at the Student Awards Ceremonies, students from each grade level are honored for being role models in the areas represented by our school’s four pillars. The young women pictured here were among those who received plaques.
In 2011, Katie O’Dowd received the school’s highest honor, the Pax et Bonum Award, presented to a graduate who best exhibits the qualities of peace and goodness through faith.
Racquel Katrina Gonzales ’14 Freshman Class Pillar of Faith Award
Ashley Kyalwazi ’14
Freshman Class Pillar of Leadership Award
Martina Penalosa ’14
Freshman Class Pillar of Excellence Award
Megan Musilli ’12
Senior Class Pillar of Excellence Award
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perspective This is a place of extreme diversity where everyone can be their own person. I love that there are so many opportunities displayed at this school, to get more people involved! This school also helped to shape my values. Surrounded by great teachers, faculty, and friends, I have received a great education and opportunities. I have grown in areas that I never would have if I hadn’t moved and these are the pillars of faith, excellence, leadership, and service.
Kelsey James ’11
The SFHS School Profile contains information about the school’s grading system, grade point distribution, standardized test scores, college placement and more. It can be found on the SF website:
http://stfrancishs.ca.schoolwebpages.com/profile Through their Guidance Counselors, with the aid of the Naviance curriculum and college planning tool, St. Francis students are guided and encouraged in the process of researching their options to find the right “fit” college or post-secondary path. The 283 graduates of the St. Francis class of 2011 are now enrolled in the following 106 colleges, universities and study abroad programs, effectively de-bunking the myth that there is only one path to success. Albion College • American River College • Arizona State University • Azusa Pacific University • Barry University • Baylor University • Boise State University • Boston College • Boston University • Brigham Young University • Bucknell University • California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo • CSU, Chico • CSU, East Bay • CSU, Fullerton • CSU, Long Beach • CSU, Monterey Bay • CSU, Northridge • CSU, Sacramento • Calvin College • Cañada College • Carroll College (Montana) • Chapman University • Claremont McKenna College • Colgate University • Colorado State University • Columbia University • Cornish College of the Arts • Cosumnes River College • Creighton University • Dominican University of California • Folsom Lake College • Fordham University • Georgetown University • Gettysburg College • Gonzaga University • Houston Baptist University • Humboldt State University • Johnson & Wales University • Loyola Marymount University • Loyola University Chicago • Loyola University New Orleans • Menlo College • Muhlenberg College • Occidental College • Oregon State University • Palomar College • Pepperdine University • Point Loma Nazarene University • Quinnipiac University • Regis University • Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey at New Brunswick • Sacramento City College • Saint Louis University • Saint Mary’s College of California • San Diego Mesa College • San Diego State University • San Francisco State University • San Jose State University • Santa Clara University • Seattle University • Sierra College • Sonoma State University • Southern Methodist University • Southern Oregon University • St. Edwards University • Tacoma Community College • Texas Christian University • The George Washington University • The University of Arizona • The University of Iowa • Trevecca Nazarene University • University of Alabama • UC Berkeley • UC Davis • UC Irvine • UC Los Angeles • UC Merced • UC San Diego • UC Santa Barbara • UC Santa Cruz • University of Chicago • University of Delaware • University of Dubuque • University of Hawaii at Manoa • University of Kansas • University of Kentucky • University of Nevada, Las Vegas • University of Nevada, Reno • University of Oregon • University of Portland • University of Rhode Island • University of San Diego • University of San Francisco • University of South Carolina • University of Southern California • University of the Pacific • University of Utah • University of Virginia • University of Wyoming • Washington University in St. Louis • Western Oregon University • Yale University • Les Roches Marbella (Spain) • Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil • Rotary Youth Exchange to Italy
Troubies, wake up and answer me this: Did we not enter here as giggling girls plagued with pimples and filled with fears of failure and humiliation? And are we not graduating today as confident women, strong with purpose and filled with a reverence for life and the potential and capacity to serve our community? The answers are “Yes” and “Yes,” and I respectfully submit that this transformation, this creation if you will, occurred as much through the intelligent design of this school, with its talented teachers and loving leaders, as it did through the evolution which occurred in your homes with your families these past 48 months. This is your story and this is our story, a story of creation and very much a story of love.
Kate Wigginton ’11
from her Valedictory Speech, May 25, 2011
Denise Pope, PhD, a Senior Lecturer at the Stanford University School of Education, is a founder of Challenge Success. This movement challenges the conventional, high-pressure, and narrow path to success prevalent in our current educational system and offers practical alternatives to pursue a broader definition of success. Challenge Success maintains that “our culture’s current configuration of success is too narrow – focused primarily on a limited number of academic skills. In the world our students are about to enter, success comes in many forms.” The SFHS administration is working with Dr. Pope in support of a school climate that promotes student well-being and engagement with learning, allowing each student to define and achieve true success.
perspective Technical theatre and theatre in general has taught me how to interact with different organizations (like the music instructors, Campus Ministry, visiting speakers, and the SBOs) and be flexible or stern with limitations. It taught me how to handle tense situations and emergencies, as well as how to handle power tools and apply math in real-life situations. It taught me to be independent and gave me all my friends in addition to leadership skills and the ability to find my way around a computer.
Sierra “Kia” Shebert ’11 troubie MAGAZINE 7
connect with
campus ministry Prayer and Worship
Thirteen School-wide masses and prayer services mark key moments in the liturgical and school year. Students also attend Theology class masses and special liturgies and memorials as requested. In lieu of the Eucharist, non-Catholic students are encouraged to receive a blessing. Parents and grandparents are always welcome to attend. Among the cherished St. Francis traditions are the special family masses celebrated by each grade level during the year: Freshman Family Welcome Mass Sophomore Family Unity Mass and Ring Ceremony Junior Family Mass and Commissioning Ceremony Senior Baccalaureate Mass
Kairos Retreats
The retreat program offers students opportunities to explore their lives, their spirituality and their relationship with God and others. Students of all faith backgrounds attend a retreat each year while at St. Francis. Freshman Overnight Retreat Freshman “Body and Soul” one-day retreat Sophomore “Finding Strength in God” one-night, two-day retreat Junior “Celebrating the Gift” two-night, three-day retreat Senior “Kairos” three-night, four day retreat Mother-Daughter Retreat Father Daughter Spirit Day Retreat
perspective The summer before my senior year I was able to be a part of an amazing group of Troubies who traveled down south to build houses for Habitat for Humanity in New Orleans. It was the greatest feeling to work hard and know that my work was benefitting others in such a profound way, by giving them a place to live.
Kate Sullivan ’11
Learn more with your phone
Snap this code with a QR reader on your mobile phone, and watch a video about Christian Service.
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Sophomore Retreat
New Orleans
www.stfrancishs.org/ministry/welcome
Christian Service
Christian Service is based on our response to the Gospel’s call to serve and to live out St. Francis High School’s four pillars: faith, excellence, leadership, and service. It enables students to care for and serve our world and God’s people, particularly: the sick and suffering, children, the elderly, the poor, the marginalized, those with physical or developmental disabilities, the environment and animals. During the four years at St. Francis, each student is given help and support through Campus Ministry and Theology teachers to grow in their understanding, love and compassion for those in need and to respond generously with their God-given gifts and talents. It is our goal that when a young woman graduates from St. Francis High School, she leaves with a sense of justice and a passion to serve those in need locally in our community as well as throughout our nation and our world. Core Service Programs: Core Service Programs encourage students to serve in groups at local agencies serving a variety of clientele. The programs include: Boys and Girls Club Eskaton Higher Learning Academy Holy Spirit Tutoring MERC—Mercy Educational Resource Center MVP—Moral Values Program My Sister’s House Phoebe Hearst Tutoring Sayonara Center Sharing God’s Bounty St. John’s Shelter St. Patrick SUCCEED Academy Tutoring TRS (Therapeutic Recreation Services) Wellspring Women’s Center
perspective Funky attire. Delicious food. My best friends right beside me. This basically sums up my experience during St. Francis Day. St. Francis Day is a day-long celebration set aside to honor our patron saint, Francis of Assisi. During this day, there are no classes - just games, activities, and community bonding. St. Francis Day is probably one of the highlights of the year! Friends, Fun, and Photos - the best way to bond with your fellow SF Troubies.
Nicole Lau ’11
St. Francis Day
Summer Immersion Trips: New Orleans San Francisco Washington D.C. Winnebago Indian Reservation, Nebraska
perspective I must say that there is no other day like St. Francis Day. The 2010-2011 school year was the 70th anniversary of St. Francis High School and what better way to celebrate it then with a “decades” theme? It was probably the most enjoyable day of the year for me, dressing all out in 80’s style and playing the part as well. Seeing everyone in their creative and innovative outfits added excitement to this carnival-like annual event that brings the St. Francis community together.
Spirit Prayer Service
Jessica Nguyen ’12 Linda Norman
Director of Campus Ministry 916.737.5099 LNorman@stfrancishs.org
Fr. Joe Ternullo
Chaplain 916.452.3461 ext. 267 JTernullo@stfrancishs.org
Stephen Tholcke
Campus Ministry, Retreats 916.737.5065 STholcke@stfrancishs.org
Miles Foley
Campus Ministry, Christian Service Coordinator 916.737.5053 mfoley@stfrancishs.org
Stephanie Villanueva (SFHS ’98) Campus Ministry, Assistant 916.737.5027 SVillanueva@stfrancishs.org
Community
As a Catholic School, St. Francis High School embraces the teachings and traditions of the Roman Catholic Church. At the same time, St. Francis is a community of many faiths, each bringing its unique gifts to the greater community. The community is united by its commitment to “Pax et Bonum,” (Peace and Goodness) as evident in the life of its patron, St. Francis of Assisi. Each member of the community – students, teachers, staff and parents – is to respect one another’s beliefs, share in one’s spiritual journey, and pray and work together as a community of faith. Community Activities Big Sister Little Sister Program St. Francis Day Community Celebration Advent Celebration “North Pole for the Soul” Christmas Store Pax et Bonum and Catholic Schools Week Los Angeles Youth Day Lenten Experience Meet Your Parents/ Grandparents for Lunch Days Relationship with our sister school in Ghana
“North Pole for the Soul” troubie MAGAZINE 9
the insider’s guide to
guidance
The SFHS Guidance Department upholds the right and responsibility of each student to achieve her potential.
perspective The best services provided by school personnel are those offered in the guidance department. Personally, my counselor was amazing and I could come to her with academic, social, and emotional problems and she would help me to the best of her ability.
Stephanie Dalton ’11
Academic Guidance
The counselors inform, advise, support, and monitor each student’s academic progress through the following activities and services: Orientation to St. Francis High School’s course offerings and graduation requirements Advice on schedule choices for each student Ongoing monitoring of student’s fulfillment of graduation and college entrance requirements Facilitation of parent/teacher/student conferences as necessary Referral to tutoring Coordination of study skills sessions Administration of National Tests (PLAN, PSAT, ACT, SAT, AP) and interpretation of results Training and advising through Naviance Family Connection For students with learning difficulties, the academic counselors offer support through: Referral for diagnostic testing Provision for recommended accommodations Coordination of student study teams Completion of IEP or 504 with public school districts Assisting communication with teachers as necessary Standardized Testing Program Open to all levels: Learning Styles Inventory, Do as you Are Freshman level: PLAN (pre-ACT); studies strategies workshops Sophomore level and Junior level: PSAT (pre-SAT); Career Interest Profiler Junior & Senior level: ACT, SAT Reasoning & SAT Subject Test, Advanced Placement Exams in spring
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Debbie Austin
Emily Greene
Naomi Lee
Jan Courtney Millner ’75
Kasey Henrickson Cardinale ’99
Nancy Lynch Doyle ’77
Guidance Department Chair & College Advisor 737-5024 DAustin@stfrancishs.org College Advisor 737-5093 NLee@stfrancishs.org Wellness Counselor 737-5094 KCardinale@stfrancishs.org
Nora Wehrenberg Anderson ’83 Class of 2012 Counselor 737-5041 NAnderson@stfrancishs.org
Class of 2013 Counselor 737-5037 EGreene@stfrancishs.org Class of 2014 Counselor 737-5057 JMillner@stfrancishs.org Class of 2015 Counselor 737-5017 NDoyle@stfrancishs.org
www.stfrancishs.org/guidance/welcome
College/Career Guidance The college guidance program begins with an introduction at the ninth grade level, and increases in scope each year to culminate in extensive and individualized counseling in the 11th and 12th grades. We encourage all students and parents to take advantage of all the offerings each year. Freshman Year Registration/administration of PLAN Classroom presentations and explanations of transcript Introduction to Guidance Center I love watching peer tutoring in action! Seeing girls help each other in every subject from Calculus to Spanish; hearing the girls tell each other “Now I get it!” or “It makes so much sense now!” and knowing that both the tutor and tutee gain from the process.
Judi Brown
Math Teacher
Parent academic information presentation Small group orientation and individual academic counseling Development of a 4-year academic plan Introduction to Naviance Family Connection and Learning Styles Inventory Sophomore Year Registration/administration of PSAT Small group and individual academic and college counseling Classroom and parent college information presentation Introduction to college websites and other resources Naviance: Do What You Are Personality Inventory Junior Year Registration/administration of PSAT College, Career and Personality exploration College counseling workshops - “Just For Juniors” Individual college counseling appointments
As a college counselor, I love hearing from our alumnae and learn how they are doing. This year, I have heard from many graduates from the Class of 2010 from various colleges - emails, letters, and personal visits! It’s a pleasure and honor to hear how happy they are, how St. Francis prepared them well for college, that they are involved with campus life, and mostly that they are having fun! These girls also know that if there’s anything they ever need, even after they graduate, that we are here for them!
Naomi Lee
College Advisor
Personal Guidance
The counselors provide the following services: Short-term individual and small group counseling for personal issues Crisis intervention counseling Facilitation of programs and activities on teen issues Referral information on services available in the local community Education on mental health issues
Just For Juniors
The following workshops are offered during Community Lunch: Junior Timeline & College Entrance Tests (ACT, SAT, SAT Subject) California Colleges & Playing Sports in College College Application Process & Choosing a Major Searching for Scholarships Writing the College Essay/Personal Statement
Naviance: Career Interest Profiler and College Searches Classroom and parent college information presentation Paying for College workshop Senior Year Extensive group and individual counseling regarding the entire college application process Application Workshops for UC, CSU, private schools and community colleges Scholarship Resource Binder and Naviance Scholarship Listings Paying for College workshop Services Open To All Levels On-campus presentations by college representatives Area college fair information Troubie College Day Extensive library of college catalogs, videos, career materials, financial aid information and test preparation books PLAN, PSAT, ACT and SAT testing on campus Method Test Prep (online SAT preparation) NCAA Eligibility information Individual student and parental college counseling
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academic teams team up with
Academic Teams are a great way to learn new skills, experience team building, interact with students from other high schools, make new friends, build a resume for college admissions, and have a great time. Students apply and audition for academic teams and attend meetings, practices and competitions just as athletic team members attend their sports practices and games. You can earn academic credits on most teams, too. Academic Teams are also a great way for parents to get involved at St. Francis by sharing their expertise, mentoring students, helping with competitions, or providing healthy snacks.
Moot Court
Do you like to analyze, present arguments, and debate? Attorney coaches will teach you about constitutional law and prepare you to present arguments on an assigned case before a panel of judges in an appellate court setting.
Mock Trial
Prepare to defend and to prosecute a case as an attorney, witness, defendant, court reporter or artist. You’ll learn public speaking skills and how to think on your feet. You’ll be part of a team that prepares real cases for juvenile offenders in Sacramento County who have agreed to be sentenced by a jury of their peers.
Certamen
Academic Decathlon
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Love to read and learn? The Academic Decathlon experience lets you gain a broad understanding of a major topic which is new each year – like the French Revolution, the American Civil War, Latin America or China. Cover all the angles - literature, music, art, economics, history, science and math.
Put on your toga and join Certamen (ker-ta-men) to compete with other classical teams in the Bay Area and/or in Southern California in Roman culture and Latin language events.
www.stfrancishs.org/studentlife/teams
Robotics
The St. Francis “Fembots” are one of a few all-girls’ robotics teams in the United States. With this award winning group, you’ll get training in project engineering, program management, electronics, computer programming, animation, Web design and public relations. Plus, you’ll help build a robot to enter in one of the most respected and prestigious events offered to high school students, the F.I.R.S.T. Robotics Competition. No experience required, just a love of adventure, a willingness to try something new and a desire to show the world (and colleges) that “We Can Do It.”
Robotics team 692 (the Fembots) at Channel 10
Model United Nations Science Olympiad
Weird Science? Not for the Science Olympiad team! Science Olympiad competitions are like academic track meets, consisting of a series of 23 team events that may include genetics, earth science, chemistry, anatomy, physics, geology, mechanical engineering and technology on a rotating basis each year.
As a member of the SFHS MUN delegation, you’ll represent a United Nations country and write resolutions and discuss key issues with students from other schools in California in two-day Model United Nations conventions at UC Berkeley and UC Davis. Your team will meet one or two days each week to prepare position papers and plan strategy.
perspective One of my favorite St. Francis High School experiences has been with my Model United Nations Team. To practice our debating skills, Mr. Dodson had us all represent different people who are stuck on a ship that will sink if some people do not jump off (the point of this exercise being to argue our way into staying on board). We ended up having interesting characters on the ship, such as the Pope, Jesus, and Mahmoud Ahmedinejad! It was so much fun and we actually improved our debating!
Clarissa James ’14 Speech Team : Fiction and Fact Squads
Is drama or humor your forte? Then the “Fiction Squad” is for you. Interested in world events or advocating solutions to serious issues? Then compete with the “Fact Squad” in original oratory and international current event speeches. Flexible scheduling and one-on-one coaching make these squads a good match for busy girls.
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student activities jump right
in!
Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities allow students to develop leadership skills, pursue individual interests and just have fun! SFHS encourages its students to reach out – to explore new horizons, to get involved in global concerns and to help shape ideas and technologies of the future. Nearly all St. Francis students participate in some form of student activities.
International Night
Student government plays an important role in shaping the school calendar and channeling the efforts of classes. Organizations and clubs are plentiful, providing something for everyone: school and community service, academic competitions, cultural interests, spirit building, publications and the development of special talents. The school year is rich in activities, ranging from dances and concerts to major traditions such as the St. Francis Day Celebration and Homecoming Week (unrivaled anywhere!)
perspective Being on Student Council was the greatest choice I ever made. I became friends with a lot of new people and learned about how much work planning all the dances are. I recommend running for any positions, even if you are shy, like me! It teaches you so much about public speaking and how to work with others.
Leah Bishop Newton ’92 Director of Student Activities 916.737.5026 LNewton@stfrancishs.org
Gabriela Riegos ’14
St. Francis Day
Japanese Student Exchange See more with your phone
Snap this code with a QR reader on your mobile phone, and watch a video from the Mother Daughter Fashion Show.
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www.stfrancishs.org/studentlife/welcome
Na Wahine ‘O ‘Olu Hula Hui
perspective When I joined the St. Francis Na Wahine ‘O ‘Olu Hula team, I had no hula experience at all and little did I know how much fun it would be. I’ve learned so much about the culture and beauty of hula dancing and made an enormous amount of new friends. Mrs. Macugay, our team coach, treats us all as if we are her own daughters and she is so passionate about hula. I could not imagine my St. Francis life without the hula team, and it’s only been one year! Unique things like this are what make St. Francis such an amazing place.
Bianca Dunn ’13
Mother Daughter Fashion Show
perspective My favorite thing to do this year was participate in the school play and musical with the Techies Anonymous club. This club allows students to work behind the scenes, building the shows that many come to see. I was the stage manager for one of these shows and I loved working with our technical director and learning all the inner workings of theatre. It is truly a magical experience and a great time for anyone involved.
Current Clubs/Organizations open to all: A.I.M High Club • A.I.R
Alex Stoffel ’11
• Alzheimer Awareness • Art Swat • Aquatics and Crew Club • Asian Pacific Islander Club • Black Latin Union • Il Circolo Italiano • Club de Espanol • Desi • Daughters of Sarah • Environmental Club • ERA • Fashion Club • French Club • Ga-Ga For A Heart • GLAM • GLOW • Go Red for Women • Gourmet Club • Guitar Club • Healthy Lifestyles • Key Club International • Latin Club • Livebettes • Muslim Student Association • Mini Life Savers • Art SWAT • Paws • Peace • Pink Ladies • Sew Useful • SF Football • SF Patriots • Spirit Club • Techies Anonymous • The Troubies of River City • Troubie Soles • Venture • Water Works • WWW.Club • Young Democrats • Young Republicans
Clubs/Organizations/School Service Groups open by application or audition: A Cappella • SF Ambassadors • Big Sisters • California Scholarship Federation • Mandolin • National Honor Society • Na Washine ‘O ‘Olu Hula Hui See the Student Life section of the SF website for descriptions
Student Activities:
Father Daughter Dinner Dance
Annual Retreats • Blood Drive • College Visits • Community Lunch • Dances • Fall Musical • Father-Daughter Dinner Dance • Grad Night • International Night • Intramural Sports • Japanese Student Exchange • Junior Commissioning Ceremony • Magazine Sale • Mother-Daughter Fashion Show • Mock Political Campaign and Elections • Multi-Cultural Week • Political Campaign Volunteering • Powder Puff Football • Rallies • St. Francis Day • Sophomore Ring Ceremony • Spirit Week • Spring Play • Student and Family Liturgies • Travel in the USA and Abroad • Troubie Week • Winter Ball
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homecoming
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Homecoming is the most treasured event and favorite time of the school year for many St. Francis students. As an all girls school without the typical football game to celebrate homecoming festivities; we Troubadours do something a little bit more exciting. For two weeks, each class works hard to create theme-based decorations, skits, and dance routines, which are displayed at a culminating, school-wide rally. This year’s theme was “Walking on...” The Seniors were “Walking on a Stage,” the Juniors were “Walking on a Dream,” the Sophomores were “Walking on the Wild Side,” and Freshmen were “Walking on the Moon.”
perspective I shadowed during Penny Wars and, even though it was hectic and crazy, I saw the school spirit and pride that everyone had. I also saw how much they loved being there. That made me decide to be part of it.
Claire Kenneally ’13
See more with your phone
Snap this code with a QR reader on your mobile phone, and watch a video from the Penny War.
Canned Food Drive and Penny War
perspective
Two other major homecoming activities, the Canned Food Drive and Penny War, earn points for class participation while fostering the St. Francis tradition of serving our greater community. In the fall 2010 Canned Food Drive, benefitting Elk Grove Food Bank and River City Food Bank, the senior class of 2011 brought in a whopping 35,230 cans, almost twice the amount of cans the entire school brought in the previous year! The total drive resulted in 66,544 cans, averaging 60 per girl - a school record. In the Penny War, pennies collected by each class count as positive points; silver coins are placed in other classes’ bins and the value subtracted from their point count. With the combined efforts of all four classes, the 2010-2011 student body raised $13,801.91 benefitting local Catholic schools in need.
Katie Roedell ’14
My favorite memory at St. Francis is Homecoming Week. That whole week I was so excited I hardly slept. From trying to keep grades up while learning the freshman dance, writing a song to ask a boy to the dance, decorating the gym and losing my voice from cheering for my class, painting my face green wearing our new jerseys, then scrambling to finish the decorations on time. This all may seem crazy but this is the Troubie life. From studying, prayer and tests to food, dances and rallies, St. Francis has it all.
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athletics Basketball
n a e b o t ! ti ’s great S F troubadour
St. Francis is well known for not only its academics, but also for the variety and quality of extra-and co-curricular possibilities it offers. For the athlete, we offer twelve interscholastic sports. Athletics enhance the positive climate and Christian experience at SFHS and help to develop young women with confidence, respect and determination. A fall 2010 realignment of leagues within the Sac-Joaquin Section made the Delta River League one of the most competitive leagues in the Section. Still, each year, St. Francis Troubadours (“Troubies”) win numerous League and Sac Joaquin Section championships. Traditionally, half of the St. Francis student body participates in one or more interscholastic sports. Win or lose, “it’s great to be an SF Troubadour!”
Volleyball Class of 2011 graduate Zoe Nightingale was named a 2010 All-American by PrepVolleyball. com, MaxPreps, AVCA Under Armour, and ESPN Rise. As the team’s middle blocker, Zoe racked up honors including League MVP and All Metro First Team in 2008, 2009, and 2010; CIF First Team All State 2009 and 2010; ESPN Rise Top 25 Senior Recruits National Ranking #8, to name a few. Having received volleyball scholarship offers from 18 universities, Zoe accepted a full athletic scholarship at UCLA. St. Francis volleyball coach Alynn Wright said of Zoe, ““We’ve been through a lot. At times, I feel like she is my second daughter, we’ve become so close.”
Track & Field
Diving
Volleyball Coach Alynn Wright was honored for 22 years of service to the school at the Booster Club’s annual Crab Feed in February 2011.
Soccer Swimming
Track and Field standout
Cekarri Nixon ’11
accepted an athletic scholarship to Arizona State University.
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The National Interscholastic Swimming Coaches Association (NISCA) ranked SFHS’s 2011 swim team 6th nationally among independent schools with 900+ students and 22nd nationally for all schools. A number of St. Francis swimmers garnered All-American status (top 100 in the nation): Sydney Johansen, Carissa Metcalf, Cora Stebbins, and Alex Rieger - 29th in the 200 Medly Relay; Sydney Johansen - 55th in the 200 IM and 27th in the 100 Back; Amy Crayne in Diving; Alex Rieger, Antionette Ranit, Jessica Poelman, and Cora Stebbins - 84th in the 200 Free Relay; and Sydney Johansen, Natalie Green, Carissa Metcalf, and AnnClaire MacArt - 47th in the 400 Free Relay.
Softball
The SFHS Lacrosse Team came in first in the Sacramento Valley Lacrosse Conference in spring 2011 and was voted the “best sportsmanship” award for the league. Five of the players received first-team all league honors, three second-team honors, and one honorable mention. Coach Dara Robbins was the runner-up for coach of the year. Three St. Francis players - Meagan Bennett ’13, Celeste Holben ’13 & Charlotte Stewart ’12 - were selected to participate in the Women’s Division National Tournament at Stony Brook University on Long Island on Memorial Day weekend. Coach Robbins was one of four NorCal coaches invited to coach a team in the tournament, which fields the top players in the nation.
www.stfrancishs.org/athletics/news
Lacrosse Stephanie Heyward ’14,
a pitching ace for the Troubie softball team, was selected to the All-League Team as a freshman.
“Lucky number 13” was the theme for the Golf Team, as they won their 13th section title in the fall of 2010. “Being on the golf team was an amazing experience. I met some of the most incredible people and I especially enjoyed practicing after school because each day was filled with laughs. From the four years I played, I took away so many memories that I will never forget. I’m so glad I was able to be a part of such a positive, supportive, and fun-loving team.”
Sarah Handy ’11,
There are 12 different sports that make up 27 total teams at SF. In 2010-2011, 458 students participated in SFHS athletics, holding 528 team positions (66 students played two sports and two students played three sports). Cross Country: 3 teams - Varsity, JV, Frosh/Soph Tennis: 2 teams - Varsity, Developmental Team Volleyball: 3 teams - Varsity, JV, Frosh Golf: 1 team - Varsity Water Polo: 2 teams - Varsity, JV Basketball: 3 teams - Varsity, JV, Frosh Swimming: 2 teams - Varsity, JV Track & Field: 2 teams - Varsity, JV Diving: 2 teams - Varsity, JV Lacrosse: 2 teams - Varsity, JV Softball: 2 teams - Varsity, JV Soccer: 3 teams - Varsity, JV, Frosh At least once during each sport’s season, the SFHS Booster Club BBQ Crew treats fans – Troubies and opponents alike - to a hot dog and burger dinner with all the trimmings. The Booster Club’s mission is to raise funds and spirit for the SFHS Athletic Program.
Golf
who competed in the Section meet for the first time as a senior and shot her personal best score.
Cross Country
Chris Borasi coached the SFHS Water Polo
Team to 2nd place in Division I of the Sac-Joaquin Section in fall 2010. He was nominated for the 2010-11 Sac-Joaquin Section Model Coach Award, which honors coaches who are positive role models within their schools and the community at-large.
Water Polo Kolleen Kassis McNamee (SFHS ’91) Athletic Director 916.737.5023 KMcnamee@stfrancishs.org
Molly Hanrahan (SFHS ’97) Assistant Athletic Director 916.452.3461 ext. 278 MHanrahan@stfrancishs.org
Ken McGuire
Assistant Athletic Director 916.452.3461 ext. 277 KMcguire@stfrancishs.org
Tennis Learn more with your phone
Snap this code with a QR reader on your mobile phone, and watch a video about trying out for an SF sports team.
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the arts
The Arts at St. Francis go well beyond the course offerings, with extensive extra-curricular opportunities available. The main theatre and the small black box performance space afford wonderful options for St. Francis students. Interested students can go behind the scenes and work with the technical director, hammering out the theatre sets, designing the stage lighting, and creating sound effects. Others help co-direct as the “Stage Managers” or “Assistant Stage Managers.” The annual school musical and play are extracurricular, so students need not be enrolled in an arts course to audition or work on the crew. Students in drawing, painting and sculpture classes, along with Tech Club and Art Club members are busy throughout the year making the SF campus an exciting visual place. In music, the student-directed A Cappella group performs in concerts all over Sacramento and on campus. The beginning through advanced choirs and orchestras earn high scores in the Golden Empire Festival and other state and national competitions. For even more fun, they perform for events, local gatherings, hospitals during the Christmas season, and look forward to the Catholic High Schools Choral Festival. Troubies definitely love the arts!
express yourself Christmas Concert
Winterfest
The St. Francis Dance Company and Apprentice Company present the “Senior Choreography Showcase” each May. This end of the year performance is completely student created. Seniors choreograph dances for fellow company members, design costumes, sets and lighting, and create programs and posters. Students experience the fun and challenge of developing a choreographic work and collaborating to create a performance.
Christy Costales
Dance Teacher
Adan Romo
Department Chair: Visual Arts 916.452.3461, ext. 207 ARomo@stfrancishs.org
perspective At St. Francis I enjoy the extra art classes that they offer. Choir is one of my favorite classes and in it I am not afraid to express myself through singing.
Elizabeth Campbell ’14
Cheryl Watson
Department Chair: Performing Arts 916.452.3461, ext. 127 CWatson@stfrancishs.org
Elizabeth Danielson
Arts Executive Director/Producer 916.737.5002 EDanielson@stfrancishs.org
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“If you are looking to find something to be brave about consider the fine arts.” -Robert Frost, poet
www.stfrancishs.org/arts/
Arts Courses Visual Arts Art 1 Drawing 1 Drawing 2 Painting 1 Painting 2 Painting 3 Figure Sculpture 1 Figure Sculpture 2 AP Studio Art* AP Art History* Dramatic Arts Acting 1 Theater Arts 1* SF Players (Advanced Theatre Arts) Dance Arts Intermediate Dance Technique SF Apprentice Dance Company* SF Dance Company* Musical Arts Troubadour Choir Concert Choir* Chamber Singers* Jazz Ensemble* Concert Orchestra* Chamber Orchestra* Solo & Ensembles* Essentials of Music* Honors Essentials of Music*
Charlie and his Grandpa Joe are “fizzy lifted” up a bubbly chamber in the fall 2010 production of Willy Wonka, The Musical. Since the opening of the modern St. Francis theatre in 2004, actors have been flying and tornados whirling (Peter Pan 2005, Wizard of Oz, 2006), thanks to the “full fly” capability of the school’s stage equipment - and a team of trusty, adult volunteer crew members!
The 2011-2012 season promises to be exciting for anyone interested in the Arts. All are welcome to enjoy the following Arts performances and events. Art Show - State Fair Winners & Summer School Artwork: Aug 29 - Oct 24 Art Show - AP Summer Work, Itsy Bitsy Show: Sept 12 - Oct 24 Season Sampler: Sept 20 Art Show - Women’s Social Justice: Oct 31 - Dec 9 Musical: Thoroughly Modern Millie: Nov 3-12 Christmas Music Concert: Dec 2-3 Art Show - Mrs. Carlisle’s Photography Class Show & Mrs. Stember’s Art Class Show: Jan 6-27 SF Players One Acts: Jan 11-12
* Year long class
Young at Art Show: Feb 1 (Middle School Art Show) Winterfest Dance Concert: Feb 10-11
Spring Concert
Art Show - Mr. Marko’s Art Class Show: Feb 6 - Mar 1 Solos and Ensembles Recital: Feb 29 Art Show - 2nd Saturday Show: Mar 10 - Apr 16 Spring Play: Anne of Green Gables: Mar 16-24 Henriette Doglietto Art Exhibition: Apr 18 - May 11 Spring Music Concert: Apr 20
SF Players
perspective One of my favorite experiences at St. Francis was participating in the yearly musical. It was fun to perform, but it also helped me meet a lot of people and make new friends who shared similar interests with me. Getting to perform on the beautiful stage was also a really exciting opportunity!
Clara Shader-Seave ’12
Show Choir/Jazz Show: May 2 Dance Showcase: May 9
Information is available at 916.737.5002, or on the St. Francis website. Tickets are sold online through our website.
See more with your phone
Snap this code with a QR reader on your mobile phone, and watch a video of the “Blue Skirts” A Cappella group performing at a Christmas Concert.
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english
the write stuff
The overall goal of the English program at St. Francis is effective communication, reached through close examination of literature and regular practice in written and verbal communication. The core of this four-year program is literature, on which every facet is based. Students analyze works, relying on shared inquiry methods for discussions and formal writing assignments. Writing assignments (both formal and creative), verbal skills (in both discussions and presentations) and vocabulary skills all stem from the literature. Grammar is taught in the context of the writing assignments. The classes contain a wide variety of genres, styles and periods in order to help students develop an appreciation for the subject.
English Course Sequence English 9 English 10: Great Books, Honors Great Books English 11: American Literature, Honors American Literature Seniors must take at least one full year of English, but may take more if they wish to do so. All of the courses which fulfill the requirement are literaturebased and require students to continue to develop skills in literary interpretation and analysis, seminar discussion, writing and effective study habits. English 12: Philosophy in Literature
In the 12th grade Lit & Film class, students create their own short films based on a work we’ve studied-they write the screenplay, develop storyboards, film/act/pick out costumes, etc. This year in my H block, the girls went crazy over this activity. We had Oscar awards in class, where the students voted on “best picture,” etc. I included a new category, “best use of relatives” since one group used her dad and cousin as actors in the film! One group produced a DVD jacket that looks like something you’d get at Blockbuster.
Deborah Pansius
AP English Literature and Composition
English Teacher
Heroes and Villains Literature and Film The Canticle (Yearbook) may be taken by sophomores, juniors or seniors in addition to the above, but does not satisfy graduation requirements.
perspective In Literature and Film Class, we read books like To Kill a Mockingbird, Frankenstein, and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, and then watch movies based on those books. My favorite part of this class was the Alfred Hitchcock section, when we got to pick and analyze one of his films. We also got to watch The Birds!
Katie Ponta ’11
After enacting and studying MacBeth in Honors Great Books, the students worked on a creative project in groups. They had the option to write a condensed version of the play, to create a parody or to write a new scene. The students then enacted their scenes with costumes, props and sound effects – and they had a blast! I saw some of the most creative, inspiring, hilarious scenes, and it was clear they had an amazing time doing it.
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Jenny Borasi
English Teacher
foreign language c a l ho
j n o b iao
e v a our
Studying a second language provides the cognitive and intellectual preparation necessary to succeed in the academic and social environment the St. Francis graduate will encounter. Learning a second language allows her to understand other people and their cultures. Most faculty members teaching in the Foreign Language Department are native speakers and/or have lived extensively in countries where the language is spoken. Although the graduation requirement for St. Francis is two years, most students complete 3 or 4 years of one language and many take more than one language concurrently.
Foreign Language Courses Sequence Level 1: French 1, Italian 1, Latin 1, Spanish 1 Level 2: French 2, Italian 2, Latin 2, Spanish 2 Level 3: French 3, Italian 3, Latin 3-Cicero, Spanish 3, Honors French 3, Honors Spanish 3 Level 4: French 4, Spanish 4, Honors Italian 4, Latin 4-Virgil, AP French 4, AP French 5 Literature, AP Spanish 4, AP Spanish 5 Literature
International Night is a celebration of cultures and heritage values of the SF community. In 2011 we celebrated the 20th annual International Night and 250 students performed and participated.
Evelyn Vargas
Spanish Teacher
perspective My Italian 3 class read the story of Pinocchio - in Italian. Each day we would read a chapter together in class. As we read aloud, our teacher, Signora Bertini, would act out the part of Pinocchio. Our class laughed so hard as Signora pretended that her nose was growing to twice its size and that she was turning into a donkey!
Brayden Weninger ’12
In Spanish 2, we create a travel brochure for a Spanish speaking country. Students research a country that interests them in class using our mobile netbook lab. Most students create their brochures using Microsoft Publisher. In Italian 2, students become world famous fashion designers. They design a new “look” for an eccentric pop singer, an actor or a movie director. Students make a visual of their clothing and write a paragraph in Italian describing it. It’s a great opportunity to reinforce our clothing/style vocabulary.
Ray Poncini
Spanish and Italian Teacher
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mathematics
count on it
The study of mathematics can benefit each and every student at St. Francis in two major areas. One benefit that is easily demonstrated and evaluated is the increase in the student’s repertoire of computational skills and problem-solving abilities. The second benefit, equally important but less easily measured, is the realization on the part of the student that the problem-solving skills developed in the math class are applicable to all areas of life, including the moral and spiritual. The SFHS Math department strives to promote a curriculum and classroom atmosphere that maximize the development of each student’s innate mathematical abilities and enhance her appreciation of the value of a study of mathematics.
Mathematics Course Sequence Algebra 1: 1A/1B, Regular, or XL Honors or Regular Geometry Algebra 2: 2A/2B, Regular, or Honors Honors or Regular Precalculus Regular Calculus AP Calculus AB Statistics AP Computer Science
Disco was popularized by the movie “Saturday Night Fever” and its star John Travolta. In my Precalculus classes, I point out that Travolta’s classic pose on all the movie posters models the graph of a trigonometric function. I play the Bee Gee’s soundtrack and strike the famous pose to introduce the lesson.
Susan Campbell
Mathematics Teacher
Uh oh! Emperor Zurg attacked and has made the solar system fall apart- and you are needed (because of your superb polar coordinate skills, of course) to put everything back in order! Please put the Sun at the origin. Please place Mercury at (1, �/6). Please place Venus at (2, 5�/3)… Thus begins Ms. Kore Zimmerman’s Precalculus activity on Polar Coordinates. Groups of students were given a case file with magnetic versions of the planets in our solar system and the “mission” to put them back in their orbits.
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perspective I love the St. Francis teachers. They are all so friendly and really show that they want to be here. I also enjoy the many clubs and activities that are available here.
Jamie Leatherby ’12
physical education healthy habits
The Physical Education Department at St. Francis High School strives to enrich the mental, physical and the moral development of all students by promoting spiritual, creative, and healthy lifestyles through high quality programs. The department identifies the components of successful health-related physical education and implements these into all classes. Through the practice of dance, weight training, recreational fitness, yoga and other physical activities students improve their physical coordination, body alignment, awareness, agility, balance and strength. In addition, the breathing, meditation, and instruction on healthy nutritional and life-style choices assist students in dealing with the stresses associated with adolescence. Teachers emphasize participation in developmentally appropriate and enjoyable physical activities while providing students with the skills to assess their progress.
Physical Education Courses Cardio & Weight Training Recreational Fitness Dance Styles Yoga
Performance Objectives for Cardio & Weight Training, Dance Styles, Yoga and Recreational Fitness Calculate and monitor training heart rate while exercising Perform various weight training exercises using proper technique Properly stretch before exercising Rehearse and execute a variety of dance routines that cover many styles and decades Relax and focus on stress reduction while participating in meditation/ yoga exercises Learn skills and drills associated with recreational sports
The P.E. requirement may also be fulfilled through: Intermediate Dance Technique Apprentice or Dance Company Participation on a St. Francis Sports Team Participation in an approved team sport that is not offered at SFHS Na Wahine ‘O ‘Olu Hula Class Cheerleading
perspective I love the variety of options when it comes to PE. Each girl can find the perfect balance for herself, mind and body. Yoga is my favorite. The teachers understand that we have some stresses in our lives and they help us relax, decompress, and focus, all while getting our heart rates up. PE at SF is as well rounded as academics.
Grace Savinovich ’12
Provide education for your patients and they will make the right decisions for their health. That is what my nursing career has taught me, and that is what I bring to my health classes at St. Francis High School. We enjoy a variety of projects that range from humorous to the more serious aspects of health. One of my students’ favorite units is Nutrition, where they create online food diaries. Playing the role of nutritionists, my students then analyze their diets, which can be a real eye opener for a few. In most cases, sugar, salt, fat, and incomprehensible ingredients on the food labels are the culprits. By analyzing their diets, participating in class discussions, sampling healthy foods, and viewing models of the heart with clogged arteries and baggies filled with the amount of sugar found in one can of soda, my students learn first-hand about the importance of good nutrition.
Eve Benson
Health Teacher
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science
under the microscope
The SFHS Science Department promotes an understanding of the basic principles of science. After four years, the student will have an understanding of the basic order in nature and have an appreciation of the laws of the universe. Science courses are designed to meet the state standards and UC requirements. Courses starting with the freshman year are developed in a sequential fashion to encourage upper level courses in the future.
Kathy Keller’s Biology II class made Eco-Columns from liter bottles, depicting three different habitats. Students observed different organisms, such as fish, spiders, ants, and lady bugs, and their feeding habits. The class also studied Climate Change in a symposium format where each group researched a particular facet of the subject and became “experts” on that subject, then presented their findings to the rest if the class.
Science Course Sequence Integrated Science Biology Honors Biology Advanced Placement Biology Biotechnology Biology II Anatomy and Physiology Chemistry Honors Chemistry Advanced Placement Chemistry Physics
In Biotechnology class we made DNA earrings – very cute! We also conducted some “genetic engineering,” taking a jelly fish gene that codes for a florescent protein and putting it into E. coli bacteria, making the bacteria glow in the dark.
Teri Stone
Honors Physics
Science Teacher
perspective I love the fact that there are so many wonderful science classes available to take. Science is one of my main interests and there are so many classes I would love to still take.
Rachel Cerkleski ’13
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social studies
blast from the past
The Social Studies Department of St. Francis High School believes that an understanding of the human condition in the past and throughout the world today is the best preparation for concerned, responsible and active citizenship in a society of rapid change and high technology. Through the examination of other cultures, historical time periods, the changing role of government and economic development, students understand the importance of past events in relationship to future decisions. We believe that strong Christian values will help our students evaluate issues on the local, national and international levels. We urge students to foster a critical sense of what is permanent and meaningful, and reject superficial and transient values, through participating in the political process, government forums and volunteer service within their community. We promote sympathy, justice and peace in all human relations so that our students will act from a basis of love and conviction to make our world a better place to live.
Social Studies Course Sequence World Geography and Non-Western Cultures World History Honors World History - Sophomore year
Every other year we organize a school wide Mock Election and I am always impressed with the students’ organizational skills, their understanding of the candidates and political issues, and the knowledge they gain. To watch how their ideals change and develop is amazing. Some students have told me they learned more from this activity than anything else and that they came to an understanding of the importance of voting.
Bonnie Roman
United States History
Social Studies Teacher
Honors United States History – Junior year AP U.S. History – Senior year Civics AP American Government and Politics – Senior year Economics
Arguably, one of the most important goals of social studies involves the skill of research. The ability to gather data from a balanced array of sources (hardcopy, digital, primary), sift that data, and present a coherent, well documented analytical argument; is an essential one for success in college or any vocation. This is what we do in every social studies course.
Wally Wootton
Social Studies Teacher
As sophomores the students are required to write an individual research paper. To help teach the skills necessary to accomplish this, my classes are divided into small groups. Each small group is assigned the responsibility of drafting a component of the paper. The components are than combined, producing a class research paper. The paper is assessed and copies are distributed to each student in class. These efforts are a great aid for the students in writing their individual research papers.
Vic Pitton
Social Studies Teacher
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technology
www.stfrancishs.org/academics/tech
high [ school] tech
Technology is an integral part of the high school experience. At St. Francis High School, our mission is to prepare our students for 21st Century learning by mastering skills of locating, analyzing, and creatively communicating information effectively. Our technology courses focus on preparing students to become independent users of technology, for academic and artistic purposes. Technology is all about change; building confidence allows our students to adapt and grow with the software over time, preparing them for lifelong learning.
Technology Course Sequence Computer Essentials 1 Computer Essentials II Multimedia Design CS AP Computer Science A* (Year long class) Although I teach (and love) math, my degree is in computer science. I am excited to share this knowledge with the students at St. Francis. There is a huge gender gap in this field, so being able to offer this course at an all-girls’ school is a truly amazing opportunity. I am impressed at how much interest there has been in this course, and I know my students will do great!
Aimee Staats
Math and Computer Science Teacher
“If we teach today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow.”
John Dewey
Using Microsoft’s Office Suite today is analogous to what pen and paper were to education over the past century. Computer Essentials I is geared towards students seamlessly integrating technology into their academics. Computer Essentials II and Multimedia Design CS take the skill set further. These classes empower students to use their creative talents through image, video, audio creation and manipulation, and Web design. For students who are considering careers in math, science or computer programming, AP Computer Science A is a great choice. I am very excited about our new Computer Essentials I online course for freshmen this fall.
Eve Benson
Technology Teacher
Multimedia Design CS is on its third year of creating READ posters. This is a fun and exciting project as students storyboard, coordinate and set up photo-shoots with our teachers. Using Photoshop CS5, the posters come alive with their message to READ. They are put on display in our library.
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perspective Through the technology program at St. Francis, I found my career. I was so excited to learn Photoshop Elements in Computer Essentials II, that it led me to consider a career in Graphic Design. I continued with Multimedia Design CS, Yearbook and the school newspaper. The READ poster project in Multimedia Design CS provided “real life” experience – working with a client (the teachers and librarians), coming up with the concept, and creating a product - that paralleled the job of a Graphic Designer.
Melissa Kelly ’09
Currently Studying at the Academy of Arts in San Francisco
library
for your reference
The mission of the library staff is to teach students to develop the research and technology skills necessary to find, analyze and communicate information effectively. Through books, media, and technology, students are encouraged to be lifelong readers and learners.
In the library, Troubies can find the best Young Adult Fiction in town along with a comfy place to read and do homework. Surrounded by displays of class projects and student art, students enjoy a peaceful setting in which to conduct research from top notch online and print sources, use laptops for class instruction, and learn about the world around them. The library is also a great place for tutoring sessions with a teacher or fellow student and to get help from the outstanding library staff.
Library Media Program The library media program engages students in the world of research and communication as an extension of the classroom curriculum through:
Judy Walker
Librarian 916.737.5019 JWalker@stfrancishs.org
Jean More
Library Assistant 916.737.5051 JMore@stfrancishs.org
student research skills instruction
Last year in the SFHS Library…
thousands of books were checked out and returned on time hundreds of term papers benefitted from research instruction database usage soared new floor cushions were thoroughly sat on popular magazines gathered no dust countless assignments were completed in peace colorful bookmarks held many pages the Top Fifty Readers List continued to climb over 200 books were sold to benefit Catholic Relief Services no librarians died of boredom
collaborative planning with faculty meaningful and timely teaching of information skills curriculum support information resources
See the list of online resources on the SF website www.stfrancishs.org/academics/library
Lucky me - I had a mother who read to me and took me to the library every two weeks; I always had a book under my pillow! In the SF Library, engaging students in reading for pleasure is a habit we promote to bring them joy, lifelong learning, and a wide perspective on the world.
Jean More
Library Assistant Information is power. Connecting students with the power of books, media and technology is a great adventure each day in the SF library.
Judy Walker Librarian
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theology
catch the spirit
The Theology Department is a central and integral part of St. Francis High School. We believe that people encounter God in their everyday activities; it is our goal as religious educators to promote the awareness of God’s presence and encourage the interaction of God’s grace and our free response. The Theology Department prepares the students to go forth as living examples of service, community building and faith. There is an ecumenical spirit in our Catholic school which serves those of different Christian denominations, the Jewish, the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and Islamic faiths and the Orthodox traditions. The eight semesters of theology Present the core beliefs and practices of Roman Catholicism Foster an appreciation of: Spirituality, especially prayer and worship Ethical behavior Christian Service Reverence for the mystery of life Respect for people and religions
Theology Course Sequence Freshman Courses: Hebrew Scriptures, Prayer and Sacraments Sophomore Courses: Christian Identity, The Gospels Junior Courses: Religious Philosophy, Church History Senior Courses: Ethics, World Religions
Juniors loved doing a research project on Religious Communities. Many have not had the experience of being taught by a Religious Sister. This opportunity and project opened and advanced our discussions regarding our Catholic Church and the significant role the people of God have in our Church.
Sister Rosemarie Carvalho Theology Teacher
Junior Theology Students in Action
Campus Ministry and the Theology Department work hand in hand to keep the Spirit alive on our campus. At the end of their junior year, students are commissioned to be the senior leaders in the fall. A commissioning ceremony celebrates this transition and new responsibility.
Mr. Joe Poggi is known for
creative projects in his classes. His sophomore Gospels course and his freshman Prayer and Sacraments course are favorites on the SF Campus. Mr. Poggi, also known as the P g Man, is positive energy incarnate!
I really enjoy the way service is incorporated into our activities. Spirit Week, S.F. Day, Christmas, Lent all touch the local, national and international community. We are not just a school in Sacramento County. We are part of The Global Village – The Body of Christ. We know how to work, play and pray. We are first class in academics but we also know how to throw a party: St. Francis Day, Halloween, Spirit Week, Christmas. There is a prayerful celebratory dimension to all of these activities.
Rick Norman
Theology Teacher
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perspective In my Gospels class, we had the opportunity to make our own “treasure” boxes, filled with items special to us. I decorated my box with pictures of my family and pets and filled it with symbols of my friends, achievements, and goals. It was by far my favorite project because I really had the chance to be myself and to let my classmates see who I am outside of school.
Eleanor Ferguson ’13
sisterhood I love SF because of the strong community bond and the amazing ways we serve others. I have learned many valuable things at SF that I will use in my life forever. I have made friendships that will last forever! Plus I can’t forget my secret love for the cafeteria.
Mollie Babich ’13
Student life is absolutely amazing at St. Francis. While reflecting on these past four years, I can honestly say I am so thankful for our tight-knit community. I love how girls are able to come to school and not have to worry about their appearance. Female academic excellence is also something I really treasure about SF. The student population is motivated to do well and everyone utilizes her talents to the fullest potential.
Nicole Lau ’11
St. Francis has a way of making the school feel like a community. All the students feel like family and that is something I would not have been able to find at any other high school.
Nicole Bellini ’11
I enjoy the community and how we are more like sisters than friends. I also love the opportunities that we are given academically and socially.
At St. Francis I feel a close bond with all of my classmates. I love how everyone can be their true selves without feeling pressure to fit in. The teachers are great too; they care about their students.
Emily Macias ’14
I enjoy the friendly atmosphere at St. Francis. Being able to walk down the halls and always have a friendly wave and smile by someone.
Meridith Wynn ’12
I chose to attend SF because of the environment and curriculum. SF just has such a loving community and the teachers are wonderful. I also love the freedom and options we have when choosing classes. SF has so much to offer!
Selena Shannon ’14
I enjoy feeling as at home on this campus and around my fellow Troubies as I do in my own home with my family. I love the support and sense of community. As an eighth grader I had only a slight inkling of how great SF was. I mostly chose SF to be with my friends, but had I known what a great place this is, I would’ve chosen to come here regardless of where my friends were going.
Brayden Weninger ’12
Jaitika Singh ’14
St. Francis has a welcoming, friendly vibe, which greets students at the gates and permeates every inch of the campus, so students feel comfortable and relaxed while at school.
Kate Ely ’12
I enjoy the sense of sisterhood and community that makes SF so unique. I also love that we are constantly pushed to do our best and the constant support of the staff, teachers, and friends.
Ashley Jones ’13
I chose SF because I wanted to be a part of a school that put so much importance on sisterhood.
Natalia Caprile ’14
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tradition continues
the
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Graduates of St. Francis carry their education, confidence, spirit, and passion to their colleges, careers and communities knowing they can make a difference. You are invited to enter the class of 2016 and join St. Francis High School’s “legacy of extraordinary women.” On these pages we share just a few of their many stories. Following two years in the “Echo” service-masters program at Notre Dame and two years of ministry with Nativity Catholic Church in Indianapolis (serving as the youth minister, Confirmation coordinator, RCIA teacher, and a 2nd grade catechist) Natalie Helfrick ’04 took exams for a Theology M.A. in July 2011. Natalie then committed to 18 months of service in Bangkok, Thailand with an international Catholic organization called Heart’s Home beginning in October 2011. This group is dedicated to spreading compassion to those who suffer most, including children and the most isolated in deprived areas of the world. Natalie will live in a contemplative prayer community with three other women and spend her time primarily with children of the streets and their families; the very sick in a nearby hospital; children at a day care center; adults with disabilities at a day activity center; elderly people of the neighborhood; and inmates of the immigration detention center. 1
Natalie (right) in her role as Youth Minister at Nativity Catholic Church in Indianapolis.
Heidi Montgomery ’08 spent a month in Australia in 2011 studying the Dynamics of Tourism and International Special Event Management. While there, she climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge, toured the Sydney Opera House, and cuddled with koalas. Heidi is now in her final year of college at Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, North Carolina. 2 Catherine McKenzie ’65, after 10 years of teaching and
24 years of experience in the telecommunications industry working in the private sector, joined the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office in 1998 as Director of the Technology Unit. She oversees several system wide projects such as 3C Media Solutions, e-conferencing, data and video networking, California Virtual Campus, and CCCApply (to name a few), and the distribution of technology related funds to 112 California community colleges. 3
Have you heard about Dishwashermate? It’s a new product on the market that was invented by SF alumna Gina Jackson ’87.
Greta Gerwig ’02 is a founding member of the SF Players, SFHS’s advanced dramatic arts course.
After work in several well-received independent films, Greta earned a starring role in the remake of “Arthur” with Russell Brand. Greta was a “best female lead” nominee (along with Natalie Portman, Nicole Kidman, Annette Benning, Michelle Williams, and Jennifer Lawerence) in the 2011 Spirit Awards, honoring excellence in independent films, for her work in “Greenberg” with Ben Stiller. (See www.spiritawards.com) 4
In 2010, Mary Beth Upjohn Prendergast ’98 was named Puget Sound Employee Volunteer of the year and selected for honorable mention for the Boeing Exceptional Volunteer Service Award. Mary Beth has been an energetic supporter of the St. Francis robotics team since she graduated in 1998. She has mentored the team from afar through electronic communications with the team and the coaches. She has also made many trips back to Sacramento to work with the team members in person over holidays, summer and throughout the year whenever the team sponsored a major event. 5
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Class of 1950
History of St. Francis High School St. Francis High School was founded in 1940 with a class of twelve young women on the top floor of St. Francis elementary school on K Street. The current campus opened in 1965 and underwent a major expansion in 2003-2004. Now, with an enrollment of over 1,100 and alumnae numbering over 8,000, St. Francis High School continues its legacy of spirit-filled community and educational excellence; of athletic merit and artistic accomplishment; of peace and goodness (Pax et Bonum). At St. Francis, young women integrate their faith, knowledge, and experience of community to become effective Christian witnesses in our global society. This special mission makes St. Francis much more than an outstanding college preparatory school in the Sacramento region. St. Francis graduates understand that they can make a difference in today’s world – and make it! For more about us, visit: www.stfrancishs.org/school/welcome
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troubie timeline
Follow these steps to join the ranks of St. Francis High School Troubadours
September 2011 - January 2012
Register for the Placement Test Use the enclosed Placement Test registration card, sign up at Open House on October 9th, or register online at www.stfrancishs.org. See the website for additional Placement Test information. All prospective students, including transfer applicants, must take the Placement Test.
October 9, 2011 from 1:00 to 4:00pm
Open House for Prospective Students & Families Tour the St. Francis campus and speak with administrators, teachers, students and parents about all the opportunities St. Francis has to offer.
October 2011 - January 2012
Spend the Day as a Future Troubie Eighth grade students are welcome to spend a day at St. Francis High School “shadowing” a St. Francis student and experiencing a slice of campus life.
• For eighth graders attending Sacramento-area Catholic elementary schools, shadow days will be arranged by their teachers. • Students attending other schools can arrange a shadow day by contacting the St. Francis Admissions Office at 916.737.5095.
January 21, 2012
Placement Test Administered at St. Francis High School Students should arrive at 7:45am with two #2 pencils. Calculators are not allowed. Refreshments are provided during a testing break.
Enrollment Stats: We expect to enroll a class of 290 freshmen in 2012-2013. In the Class of 2015, 57% came from Catholic elementary schools, 28% from public schools and 15% from private schools.
Tuition: Tuition for the 2011-2012 school year is $11,500 plus a registration fee of $600.
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www.stfrancishs.org/admissions/welcome October 1, 2011 - January 23, 2012
Submit an online application to St. Francis High School Please submit applications electronically. Go to www.stfrancishs.org/apply and follow the steps. If you need assistance with the online application, contact the Admissions Office at 916.737.5095. Applications may be submitted at any time prior to the due date. Required forms include: Application - information about the applicant and her family Recommendations from principal or 8th grade teacher, mathematics teacher, language arts teacher & clergy Request for records from current school
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Applications & recommendations for the Class of 2016 are due January 23, 2012. Applications for transfer students are due April 16, 2012.
February 12, 2012 from 11:00am to 4:00pm
Incoming Class of 2015 Interviews Students who took the Placement Test will receive letters providing a scheduled interview time.
March 12, 2012
Letters of Decision Mailed Financial Aid application information will be mailed with letters of notification.
March 24-29, 2012
Challenge Exams, Auditions & Try-outs Class of 2016 Academic Challenge Tests Saturday, March 24 at 9:00am - 1:00pm Choir & Orchestra Auditions (A-L) Monday, March 26 at 4:00pm (M-Z) Tuesday, March 27 at 4:00pm Dance Company Auditions Wednesday, March 28 at 4:00pm Callbacks: Thursday, March 29 at 4:00pm
Details will be mailed with letters of notification.
March 29, 2012
Class of 2016 Registration Fee Due April 24, 2012 from 4:00 to 7:30pm
Class of 2016 Course Registration Information will be included with notification letters.
1st Week of July 2012
“Back to School” Information Mailed Student schedules and information regarding the start of classes will be included.
Moira O’Brien
Director of Admissions 916.737.5095 mobrien@stfrancishs.org
Molly O’Connor Emslie (SFHS ’81) Associate Director of Admissions 916.737.5040 memslie@stfrancishs.org
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perspectives
Students, alumnae and parents share their thoughts about St. Francis High School.
I chose SF because I enjoy the variety it has to offer. I have the opportunity and freedom to venture out and explore different areas. I can tap into the arts but focus on athletics and academics at the same time.
Aliska Berry ’12
I enjoy the St. Francis environment. It has the feeling of both a high school and college campus. We’re given both guidance and independence.
Alexa Harris ’12
St. Francis has a long tradition in the community and, as an alumna, I know this will be a tremendous experience for Catie - like it was for me. She will be academically challenged and supported by the faculty and staff at St. Francis. It is a positive environment that will help her grow into the kind of young woman we know will contribute to the community.
Rick & Margo Reid Brown ’81, Carolina ’13 & Catie ’15
What I enjoy most about SF are the teachers and the beautiful campus. All of the teachers try their best to help every student succeed. I also love walking around SF taking in the beautiful chapel, the shady trees, and the friendly atmosphere.
Alexis Ortiz ’13
I would say the general spirit on the campus is the best characteristic of St. Francis. There is a spirit at the school, exemplified by the decibel level of Homecoming. There is a spirit of community and faith, thanks to the outreach of Campus Ministry. There is also a spirit of striving for the greater good, shown through the Renaissance education they provide, not just in the classroom, but with school activities. Every 15 Minutes was probably the best experience I’ve had at St. Francis. It demonstrated the importance of respect for life, but also demonstrated how close the St. Francis community is. I am grateful for this experience.
Sarah Mahan ’11
I am very passionate about the arts and St. Francis really supports that. But I also really appreciate the diversity represented here both in the people and the classes/activities provided. When I visited St. Francis, I was immediately drawn to the warm, friendly atmosphere on campus. I also was excited to take advantage of the wide variety of classes.
Clara Shader-Seave ’12
SFHS’s academic program is definitely fitting for a college preparatory school. I feel I will be much more prepared going into university studies from St. Francis than any other high school. Most of the teachers here are very knowledgeable and passionate about the subjects they teach.
Jennifer Fong ’11
I enjoy the community that an all-girls environment fosters. Everyone is friendly, laid-back, and fun. Most of all we are all united. I absolutely love this school.
Bianca Velez ’12
I laugh so much at school you would think I wouldn’t get anything done. The laughter helps me enjoy every moment of learning at SF.
Olivia Godby ’12
We are encouraging our daughter to apply to St. Francis High School because we have seen firsthand that it is a wonderful school. Our eldest daughter is a Junior this year and has flourished academically, spiritually and emotionally. I am also an alum of St. Francis. The education that I received at St. Francis has enhanced my life and still benefits my family today. We also believe that it is spiritually beneficial to our children to receive a Catholic Christian education. Our Catholic faith is central in our lives so we feel strongly that continuing a Catholic education through high school is a priority.
Dave & Debra Kiernan Daly ’84, Megan ’12 & Emma ’15
I chose to attend SF because when I shadowed and went to Open House the love and care everyone had for me was amazing. I was instantly drawn in and was excited to be part of the same community.
Julia Stone ’14
My favorite part of SF is our community. I can’t think of any other school with such spirit and enthusiasm for homecoming, friends, and birthdays. I chose SF because it had always been my dream school.
Chelsea Saurer ’13
I enjoy that St. Francis offers a wide range of different opportunities whether it’s sports, academics, theatre, or the ability to start your own club.
Julia Peterson ’13
Coming from a large public middle school I wanted more of a personal and friendly environment. SF also offered so many programs that I was interested in, including Model United Nations and orchestra.
Sarah Cornett ’12
Expect the impossible to occur at Community Lunch. Sometimes you’ll see the lunch line stretch all the way to the St. Claire building or you’ll see student council members blasting on a megaphone, encouraging you to buy tickets to the next dance or to go to the next game. When it’s sunny, you’ll hear music either from the speakers or Mr. Gracyk strumming on his guitar. Anything can happen during those 40 minutes of free time.
Camille Dyer ’12