St. Francis Preparatory School

History

St. Francis Preparatory School, commonly referred to as St. Francis Prep, is a private, coeducational, Catholic college preparatory school located in Fresh Meadows, Queens, New York City. It was founded in 1858 by the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn, originally as a boys' school. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the largest and most prestigious Catholic high schools in the United States.

The school was initially established in Brooklyn, New York, and was known as St. Francis Academy. In 1974, the school relocated to its current site in Fresh Meadows, Queens. The move was driven by the need for a larger campus to accommodate the growing student body and to provide enhanced facilities.

Campus

The St. Francis Preparatory School campus spans approximately 10 acres and includes several buildings dedicated to academic, athletic, and extracurricular activities. The main building houses classrooms, science labs, computer labs, and administrative offices. The campus also features a state-of-the-art library, a chapel, and various specialized facilities for the arts and sciences.

The athletic complex includes a gymnasium, fitness center, and outdoor fields for sports such as soccer, baseball, and track and field. The school also has a performing arts center, which hosts various events, including theater productions, concerts, and assemblies.

Academics

St. Francis Prep offers a rigorous academic program designed to prepare students for higher education and beyond. The curriculum includes a wide range of courses in the humanities, sciences, mathematics, and social sciences. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are available in numerous subjects, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school.

The school emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating religious studies and ethical teachings into the curriculum. This approach aims to develop well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also morally and socially responsible.

Departments

The academic structure of St. Francis Prep is organized into several departments, each specializing in a specific area of study:

**English**: Focuses on literature, composition, and critical thinking skills.
**Mathematics**: Offers courses ranging from algebra to calculus and statistics.
**Science**: Includes biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science.
**Social Studies**: Covers history, economics, government, and psychology.
**World Languages**: Provides instruction in languages such as Spanish, French, Italian, and Latin.
**Fine Arts**: Encompasses visual arts, music, theater, and dance.
**Physical Education**: Promotes physical fitness and wellness through various sports and activities.

Extracurricular Activities

St. Francis Prep offers a diverse array of extracurricular activities, catering to a wide range of interests and talents. These activities are designed to complement the academic program and provide students with opportunities for personal growth and development.

Athletics

The school's athletic program is extensive, with teams competing in various sports at the junior varsity and varsity levels. St. Francis Prep is a member of the Catholic High School Athletic Association (CHSAA), and its teams have achieved significant success in regional and state competitions.

Sports offered include:

Basketball
Soccer
Baseball
Softball
Track and Field
Cross Country
Volleyball
Tennis
Swimming
Wrestling

Clubs and Organizations

In addition to athletics, St. Francis Prep has numerous clubs and organizations that cater to a wide range of interests. Some of the most popular clubs include:

**National Honor Society**: Recognizes academic excellence and promotes leadership and service.
**Student Government**: Provides students with a voice in school affairs and fosters leadership skills.
**Debate Team**: Competes in local, regional, and national debate tournaments.
**Drama Club**: Produces several theatrical performances each year.
**Music Ensembles**: Includes choir, band, and orchestra, offering students opportunities to perform in various settings.
**Science Club**: Engages students in scientific exploration and experimentation.
**Art Club**: Provides a space for students to express their creativity through various mediums.

Notable Alumni

St. Francis Prep has a long history of producing successful and influential alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Some notable alumni include:

Joe Torre: Former Major League Baseball player and manager.
Donald Trump: 45th President of the United States.
Peter King: Former U.S. Congressman.
Vincent Piazza: Actor known for his roles in "Boardwalk Empire" and "Jersey Boys."
John Franco: Former Major League Baseball pitcher.

Community Service

Community service is a core component of the St. Francis Prep experience. The school encourages students to engage in service projects and volunteer work, both locally and globally. These activities are designed to foster a sense of social responsibility and to instill the values of compassion and empathy.

Students participate in various service initiatives, including food drives, tutoring programs, and environmental conservation projects. The school also organizes mission trips, where students travel to underserved communities to provide assistance and support.

Admissions

Admission to St. Francis Preparatory School is competitive, with a selective application process. Prospective students are required to submit an application, academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation. The school also conducts interviews to assess the applicant's suitability for the rigorous academic program and their alignment with the school's values and mission.

Financial aid and scholarships are available to qualified students, ensuring that a St. Francis Prep education is accessible to those from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.