We appreciate you taking the time to learn more about our school. We hope the following information will be beneficial in learning more about St. Francis of Assisi School in West Des Moines, Iowa. If we can be of any further assistance please contact us at 515-457-7167.

At St. Francis of Assisi School, we promote the spiritual and academic growth of our students in a manner designed to uphold the charisma and spirit of St. Francis.  We honor his simple spirit, his love of brother/sisterhood, and his awareness of God's Presence in all creatures.
 

Organization
In order to best serve our students with our existing facilities and faculty, we've established a phased-in approach to the opening of our school.  Grades kindergarten through eight were divided into a kindergarten through second primary unit (beginning Fall 2000), a third through fifth grade intermediate unit (beginning Fall 2001), and a sixth through eighth grade middle school unit (beginning Fall 2004 with completion of Phase III Building Plan).

A registration is held each year in late winter/early spring for students who will be attending or returning to St. Francis of Assisi School the following year.
 

Spiritual Growth
St. Francis of Assisi School provides for the education of the whole child by integrating religious principles into its learning curriculum.  Students grow both in their Catholic faith and beliefs, as well as academically, in a nurturing and safe environment.

	Strong Catholic identity
	Diocesan-certified catechists as teachers
	Warm atmosphere where each student develops his or her unique God-given gifts
	Faculty committed to value-oriented education
	Religion taught daily
	Daily prayer, weekly liturgy, rosary and prayer services
	Sacramental preparation programs
	Gospel teachings integrated into the curriculum
	Diocesan-approved instructional materials
	Christmas, Easter, and other religious seasons celebrated
	Peace and justice issues experiences through school service

FAMILY VALUES
At St. Francis of Assisi School, we believe that parents and families are the primary educators of their children, and we support the work of families to develop and nurture Catholic values.  As in the home, St. Francis fosters a loving, Christian atmosphere in which students can excel.

	Traditional philosophy in homework, dress code, and discipline
	Regular communication with families
	Active parent involvement and volunteer opportunities
	Safe and secure environment
	Application of Christian values through community service
	Fellowship developed through faith community
	School-sponsored family activities
	Hot lunch program staffed by parents and grandparents

Personalized Academics
Academic excellence is a goal of St. Francis of Assisi School and is achieved by focusing on the special learning needs of each student.  Our beliefs in quality education and varied learning opportunities allow each child to develop to his or her full potential. Fully accredited programming that meets or exceeds State of Iowa Standards

	State-certified teachers
	Small class sizes (26 student maximum)
	Teaching associates in primary classrooms
	Music, art, physical education, and guidance programs
	Growing library/media center
	Growing computer lab and classroom mini-labs, with a computer teacher on staff Reading resource program
	Enrichment program
	Access to special education services and testing
	Iowa Test of Basic Skills utilized by appropriate grade levels
	Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program
	Plans for various additional fine arts and athletic programs

Additional Information Upon Request

	Tuition and fee information for Catholic and non-Catholic students
	Diocesan and local tuition assistance information
	Home and School parent organization
	Before and after school care program (Kids Care)

Family Handbook
Please click on the link to access the current Family Handbook.
 

Kids Care Program
Before and after school care program (Kids Care). Click here to learn more.

SFA Preschool Program
*The SFA Preschool program is not affiliated with the day school at St. Francis of Assisi. If you have questions regarding the preschool program, please contact: Tammy Meyers @ 515-223-4577  ext.116 or view the preschool information on the St. Francis of Assisi Church website www.saintfrancischurch.org

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