Congratulations to our 2026 8th Grade Class!

Today began with our very last school Mass of the year, and this celebration always comes with an exciting tradition: 8th Grade Graduation! Throughout the morning, these students were the spotlight of school Mass, and were also recognized and celebrated by family, friends, and peers during their annual graduation ceremony.

As part of this spotlight morning, Fr. Michael highlighted some recent conversations he’s gotten to have with the class, including having asked a number of them what they were most excited for after leaving St. Francis. Notably, despite the anticipation of a new chapter, many responded with “I don’t want to leave,” and one student in particular explained “it’s like everyone here is part of a big family.”

What makes this sentiment especially touching is it is not an anomaly. Later on, it turned out to also be the exact focus of Mr. B’s address to the class:

“Your class is special because of how connected you are and the love that you have for each other. This is a diverse class – we have academic all-stars, athletes, musicians, and a lot of kids who say and do dorky things – but no matter who you are in this class, everyone is a valued member of the group. And when every student is accepted for who they are, when every student feels free to be the person God created them to be, you end up with special years and a lot of memorable moments…this is how school should be.”

In light of this unique sentiment, Father offered encouragement to these students as they encounter the reality of leaving their St. Francis family:

“There’s a lot you could take away [the academics, the friendships,…], but if there’s one thing that I would pray that each of you 8th graders take with you from your time at St. Francis, it’s that you always have a home and a connection with your Lord.”

Looking ahead, we invite you all to join us in this prayer, asking that these students continue to seek & find comfort in the foundation of faith they’ve developed during their time here. And a special note to the class: Remember, you will always be a part of the St. Francis school family!