What is a Franciscan Schools?
Franciscan Schools are Catholic schools founded and shaped by the Franciscan orders, a Catholic religious order. Founded in the tradition of Saint Francis of Assisi, they emphasize humility, service to the poor, peacemaking, and reverence for creation. Like other Catholic schools, they pair a full college-preparatory education with Catholic faith formation, distinguished by the order's particular charism (spiritual character): simplicity, peace, service, and care for creation.
History & origins
The Franciscan orders has a long tradition in education, founding schools that carry its spirituality and mission. Today franciscan schools continue that heritage, often led by lay educators who steward the order's charism.
Philosophy & approach
These schools are animated by the Franciscan orders's charism — simplicity, peace, service, and care for creation — shaping their culture, values, and approach to forming students intellectually, spiritually, and morally.
Curriculum & academics
Academics are typically rigorous and college-preparatory, combining the core curriculum with religious studies and formation. Offerings (honors, AP, IB) vary by school.
The classroom & school day
School life reflects the order's values and traditions — with worship, service, and community central — alongside strong academics and, often, athletics and the arts.
Grade levels & structure
Most are high schools (grades 9–12), some single-sex; the order may also sponsor elementary or PreK–12 schools.
Admissions & enrollment
Admission is by application (records, sometimes placement testing), generally open to students of all faiths who respect the school's mission. Selectivity varies.
Costs & financial aid
These schools charge tuition (often moderate for Catholic schools), with financial aid and, in some states, vouchers or ESAs.
Accreditation & governance
They are Catholic schools overseen by the order and/or diocese, typically accredited and meeting state private-school requirements.
Is a Franciscan Schools right for your child?
Franciscan Schools suit families drawn to a Catholic, college-preparatory education shaped by the Franciscan orders's particular charism and community — including families of other faiths comfortable with the environment.
How it compares to other schools
Franciscan Schools are Catholic schools of a specific order. They share Catholic identity with parish/diocesan and other order-run schools (Jesuit, Benedictine, Dominican, and more), while each order brings its own distinctive charism.
Finding Franciscan Schools
Ready to explore specific schools? K12 Academics lists franciscan schools and other Catholic schools across the country.
Key facts
- TypeCatholic schools of the Franciscan orders
- CharismSimplicity, peace, service, and care for creation
- LevelsOften high school (9–12); some elementary/PreK–12
- WelcomesStudents of all faiths who respect the mission
- CostTuition, with aid and (in some states) vouchers/ESAs. Inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi.
Where to learn more
To learn more and find specific schools: