Admissions Policy
Student Admissions Policy For Grades 1-8
Purpose
St. Francis of Assisi School is committed to providing an educational environment that supports the academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth of each student. Our admissions process is designed to help determine whether SFA can appropriately meet a prospective student’s educational needs and support a successful transition into our school community.
Recommended First Step: School Tour
Families are encouraged to schedule a tour of St. Francis of Assisi School before beginning the formal admissions process. A tour provides an opportunity to become familiar with our school, learn about our academic programs and Catholic identity, and ask questions about the expectations and opportunities available to students.
Admissions Requirements
- Student Shadow Days and Academic Assessments
Prospective students are required to participate in one shadow day for incoming grades 1-3 and two shadow days for incoming grades 4-8 at SFA. During this time, students will experience the school environment, participate in classroom activities, and complete written language arts and mathematics assessments. These assessments help the school evaluate the student’s current academic performance and readiness for the grade level being considered.
- Teacher Recommendation
A teacher recommendation form will be requested from the student’s current or most recent teacher. This information helps the admissions team better understand the student’s academic performance, classroom participation, work habits, behavior, and educational needs.
3. Previous School Records
Official records will be requested from the student’s current or most recent school. Records should include, as applicable:
- Report cards and academic progress reports
- State standardized testing results
- Records of disciplinary incidents, including detentions, suspensions, or expulsions
- Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Section 504 Plans, and any other formal educational plans
- Documentation of accommodations, modifications, interventions, related services, and other supports currently provided to the student
- Relevant evaluations or assessments that help the school understand the student’s academic, behavioral, developmental, or learning needs
- Birth Certificate and Baptismal Certificate (if Baptized)
Parents or guardians are expected to share information regarding any existing educational plans, accommodations, or support services to help the school understand the student’s needs and plan for a successful transition.
4. Family Meeting
A meeting with the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) is required as part of the admissions process. The meeting provides an opportunity to discuss the student’s educational history, academic strengths, areas of need, behavioral and social-emotional considerations, and the family’s expectations for the student’s experience at SFA.
If the student has an IEP, Section 504 Plan, or other educational support plan, the meeting will also include a discussion of the student’s current accommodations, interventions, related services, and educational goals, as applicable. This conversation will help the school understand the student’s needs and determine what supports may be available within its programs and resources.
5. Enrollment Timeline and Deadline
Enrollment for the upcoming school year closes in mid-May. Families are encouraged to begin the admissions process well in advance of the enrollment deadline to allow sufficient time to complete all required assessments, submit records and recommendations, and participate in the family meeting.
Completion of the admissions process and submission of all required documentation must occur within the timeline established by the school. Enrollment after the mid-May deadline will be considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to administrative approval and space availability.
6. Admissions Review and Decision
Upon completion of the admissions requirements, the school’s admissions team will review the information collected, including the student’s academic assessments, teacher recommendation, previous school records, educational plans and accommodations, and family meeting.
The review will consider the student’s academic readiness, individual learning needs, and the school’s ability to provide appropriate educational programming and support. Admission decisions will be made in accordance with school policies, applicable diocesan requirements, and applicable law.
Students (new or returning) will be considered registered when all requirements have been met, the tuition contract has been signed and all fees have been paid.
Commitment to Partnership
St. Francis of Assisi School values a strong partnership between school and family. We seek to work collaboratively with parents and guardians to support each student’s growth and to ensure that families understand the expectations, mission, and educational approach of our school.
Our mission is to be a community where we learn, love, and serve like Jesus.