St. Francis

Turning the heads of commuters traveling along Elvas Avenue in east Sacramento is a 52-foot tower topped by a dome and cross, making the new St. Francis Catholic High School a distinctive addition to the city’s skyline.

In its final phase of construction prior to students’ return to classes Aug. 23, the $25 million expansion will double the size of the school and settle one question for good.

“People used to ask us ‘Where is St. Francis?’ Now they know,” said principal Andreas Agos, referring to the campus’ somewhat secluded entrance for the past 35 years. “It’s a great statement of who we are and what we do.”

The expansion project includes a new performing arts complex, including a 502-seat theater with fly tower, state-of-the-art recording studio, dance studio and space for sculpting, painting, singing and instrumental music.

The new sports complex, which contains college-size basketball and volleyball courts and a fully-outfitted fitness center, will also function as a community hall appropriate for liturgies.

Other components of the project include four science classrooms, a library resource center, and a newly-located entrance plaza on Elvas Avenue with added parking.

In recent years the all-girls Catholic high school had taken a number of steps to alleviate space problems related to its expanding enrollment. Adjustments included scheduling 20 classes which met before or after school due to insufficient classroom space.

With 900 students enrolled this fall, adding the expansion to the original ivy-covered brick buildings built for 600 students significantly improves the school’s admissions opportunities.

“We took nearly every Catholic school applicant this year,” Agos said. “Our goal is to expand to 1,000 and take as many Catholic school students as possible.”

Marion Bishop, school president, said St. Francis needed to take this “giant step” to provide facilities to reflect the abilities of girls applying for admission.

“We have incredible talent here and we really need a facility to serve that talent,” she said. “It’s going to be a magnet for all those young women interested in the performing arts.”

Financial support for the project was provided from the Diocese of Sacramento, which earmarked $5 million for the St. Francis expansion project from its capital campaign in 2002. St. Francis also launched its own capital campaign which drew generous contributions from parents, school board members, the parents’ guild, and faculty and staff.

“Without the diocese supporting this project, we could never have accomplished what we have done,” Bishop said.

She added that the school is optimistic that anticipated increased enrollment over the next eight years will retire a $10.7 million debt.

“We’re trying very hard not to build these buildings with increased tuition,” she said.

With the exception of the renovation of the old gymnasium into classrooms and completion of the campus life center and teacher work room, the project will be completed by Aug. 23.

A dedication celebration is planned from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sept. 26. The special event will include a liturgical prayer service celebrated by Bishop William K. Weigand, musical entertainment and classroom demonstrations.