Student Wellness Hub

Mental health is a vital part of who you are. It includes your thoughts, emotions, and relationships — and it affects how you think, feel, act, and connect with others.
Just like you care for your body through rest, movement, and nutrition, it's just as important to care for your mind and heart.
Good mental health helps you:

• Handle stress and pressure in healthy ways
• Build meaningful relationships
• Make thoughtful decisions
• Grow in confidence and resilience

Taking care of your mental health doesn’t mean being happy all the time — it means learning how to understand your emotions, ask for help when you need it, and know that your feelings are valid.

Common Challenges Teens Face in High School:
It’s completely normal to experience mental and emotional ups and downs. Some common struggles include:

• Academic Stress – pressure to perform, meet deadlines, or get into college
• Anxiety – social worries, overthinking, fear of failure
• Sadness or Low Mood – feeling down, unmotivated, or disconnected
• Friendship Conflicts – changes in social circles, feeling excluded
• Pressure to Be “Perfect” – high expectations from self, family, or social media
• Body Image Issues – insecurity, comparison, or disordered eating
• Family Changes – divorce, loss, or instability at home
• Identity Exploration – figuring out who you are, what you value, and where you belong

You are not weak or broken if you struggle with any of these things — you are human.

Breaking the Stigma: It’s Okay to Talk About It
Many people — especially teens — feel like they have to hide what they’re going through. But silence can make things feel heavier than they really are.
You don’t have to pretend everything’s fine.
You don’t have to go through things alone.
Talking about your mental health, reaching out for help, or checking in on a friend is a sign of strength, not weakness. The more we talk openly, the more we support each other — and the more we break the stigma around mental health.

✝️ A Catholic Perspective on Mental Health
As a Catholic school, we believe in caring for the whole person — body, mind, and spirit.
The Church teaches that every human being has dignity and worth, no matter what they’re going through. Mental health challenges don’t make you less faithful or less loved.
In fact, Jesus often met people in their pain with compassion, healing, and hope.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Seeking support — whether through prayer, counseling, or a conversation with a trusted adult — is not a lack of faith. It's an act of courage and self-care.
Faith and mental health work together. God meets you where you are — even in your struggles.


📲 In This Section, You’ll Find:

• YouTube videos explaining mental health in a teen-friendly way
• Helpful apps for mindfulness, journaling, and managing emotions
• Reflection prompts and calming strategies
• Faith-based encouragement and reminders of your worth

You deserve to feel safe, heard, and supported — and mental health is a big part of that.

• Short videos and helpful apps to guide you
• Real-life strategies you can use right away
• Faith-inspired reflections to ground your spirit
• Tools to support you through whatever you’re facing

• You don’t need to “fix” everything at once.
• This is your space — visit anytime you need clarity, comfort, or direction.
• Small steps make a big difference.

• Stay calm and focused in stressful situations
• Build strong, healthy relationships
• Bounce back from setbacks
• Feel confident in who you are
• Make thoughtful decisions
• Experience greater peace and joy in everyday life

1.) Self-Awareness
Self-awareness means being able to recognize your emotions, thoughts, and actions — and understand how they affect your behavior and relationships.
Why it matters:

• Helps you respond instead of react
• Builds emotional vocabulary (“I feel overwhelmed” vs. just “I’m not okay”)
• Increases your confidence and ability to grow
• Helps you recognize triggers so you can manage stress and conflict better
• Strengthens your ability to set healthy boundaries

2.) Self-Confidence
Self-confidence is your belief in your own value, strengths, and ability to face challenges — even when life gets tough or things don’t go as planned.
Why it matters:

• Encourages healthy risk-taking and trying new things
• Protects against peer pressure and comparison
• Reduces fear of failure or judgment
• Improves public speaking, performance, and leadership skills
• Helps you bounce back after making mistakes

3.) Empathy
Empathy is the ability to sense, understand, and care about what someone else is experiencing — even if their life looks different from yours.
Why it matters:

• Builds stronger, deeper friendships
• Helps resolve conflict with kindness and understanding
• Makes people feel seen, heard, and valued
• Encourages respect across different backgrounds and perspectives
• Strengthens your ability to be a positive leader or teammate

4.) Resilience
Resilience is your ability to bounce back from tough experiences, adapt to change, and grow through adversity.
Why it matters:

• Helps you stay hopeful during difficult times
• Encourages problem-solving and flexibility
• Builds inner strength and mental toughness
• Reduces feelings of helplessness or burnout
• Prepares you to face future challenges with courage

5.) Stress: Understanding & Managing It
Stress is your body and mind’s natural response to pressure. It can be short-term (like a test) or long-term (like ongoing family struggles). Learning to recognize and manage stress is essential for emotional and physical health.
Why it matters:

• Helps prevent burnout and anxiety
• Improves focus, sleep, and mood
• Teaches healthy habits (like asking for help, resting, or setting boundaries)
• Gives you tools to face life without feeling overwhelmed

6.) Coping Skills & Self-Regulation
Coping skills are the tools you use to handle big feelings in healthy ways. Self-regulation means being able to pause, breathe, and manage your emotional responses — even when things are hard.
Why it matters:

• Keeps conflicts from escalating
• Builds self-control and emotional maturity
• Helps you feel more in control of your reactions
• Reduces harmful coping (like yelling, avoidance, or shutting down)
• Creates space for reflection and better decision-making

• Lowers stress and anxiety
• Improves focus and memory
• Strengthens emotional regulation
• Helps you become less reactive and more thoughtful
• Increases self-awareness and self-compassion

What the Research Says:
Studies show that practicing mindfulness regularly:

• Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression
• Improves attention, emotional regulation, and academic performance
• Increases self-compassion, empathy, and overall well-being

📲 In This Section, You'll Find:

• Informational videos and tools on emotions, empathy, resilience, and regulation
• Guided breathing and mindfulness practices
• Tips for managing stress, staying grounded, and bouncing back from setbacks
• Real-life stories and science behind emotional strength
• Faith reflections on emotional growth, compassion, and courage

Breathwrk - An app that teaches breathing techniques to quickly calm the body and mind.

Your body is the home you live in — take good care of it, and it will take good care of you.
Physical wellness is about building strong habits that support your energy, focus, and emotional health — not just for today, but for the future you're growing into.

At St. Francis, we care about your whole well-being. That includes how you move, what you eat, and how well you sleep. These simple choices have a big impact on your mind, body, and spirit — and even your success in school.
Here’s how it works:

Move: The Benefits of Exercise

• Moving your body isn’t just about “fitness” — it boosts your mood, lowers stress, improves sleep, and sharpens your focus.
• Just 20–30 minutes of activity a day (like walking, stretching, dancing, or sports) can make a huge difference.
• Movement = mental clarity. It helps regulate emotions and fuels motivation.

 

Nourish: Eating Well

• What you eat affects how you think, feel, and learn. Fueling your body with whole foods gives your brain the energy it needs.
• Skipping meals or relying on junk food can lead to low energy, trouble concentrating, and mood swings.
• Choose balance — not perfection. Every small healthy choice counts.

Rest: The Importance of Sleep

• Sleep is not optional — it’s essential. Your brain and body need 8–10 hours of sleep each night to reset, recharge, and grow.
• Lack of sleep can lead to anxiety, depression, memory problems, and poor academic performance.
• Want to do better in school? Start with sleep. It’s one of the most powerful study tools you have.

Why It Matters:
When you move, nourish, and rest well:

• You think more clearly.
• You feel more balanced.
• You handle stress better.
• You do better academically.
• You’re more connected to yourself — and others.

Taking care of your body isn’t selfish — it’s how you show up for your life with strength, presence, and purpose.


“Cheerfulness, study, and piety — a program for a happy life!”— St. John Bosco


📲 In This Section, You'll Find:

• Informative videos on the importance of exercise, healthy eating, and sleep — and how they impact your mind, mood, and motivation
• Quick workouts and fitness tips to help you stay active, even with a busy schedule
• Nutrition guides and tools to help you fuel your body and feel your best
• Sleep tips and resources to improve rest, focus, and overall well-being
• Wellness apps for movement, meals, mindfulness, and better bedtime habits
• Science-backed facts about how physical health supports mental, emotional, and academic success
• Faith-based reflections on honoring your body as a gift from God
• Encouragement to build small daily habits that strengthen your body and spirit — one step at a time

BetterSleep - This app provides a library of sleep sounds, SleepTales, music, and more to help users create a calming bedtime environment

Because we’re made for connection.

Social wellness is all about how we relate to others — how we form friendships, navigate challenges, and feel a sense of belonging. When our relationships are strong and healthy, we’re more confident, resilient, and emotionally balanced.

At St. Francis, we believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. Social wellness isn’t about being popular — it’s about finding people who bring out the best in you and learning how to do the same for others.

Learning to communicate well, listen with empathy, and set healthy boundaries are all part of growing socially and emotionally. And when you feel disconnected or alone (which many teens do), know this: it’s okay to reach out — connection is a skill you can build.

Why Social Wellness Matters:

• It helps you feel more connected, accepted, and valued.
• It builds your confidence and reduces feelings of loneliness.
• It improves your mental health and supports emotional regulation.
• It teaches lifelong skills like communication, empathy, and conflict resolution.
• It reminds you that you’re never alone — we grow through relationships.

1.) What Is Social Wellness?
Your relationships matter — a lot.
Social wellness means being able to form and maintain meaningful connections with others. It’s about feeling like you belong, knowing how to be a good friend, and learning how to give and receive support. Whether you’re introverted or outgoing, everyone needs connection — it’s part of being human.
Why it matters:

• Helps reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness
• Boosts self-esteem and emotional resilience
• Strengthens your communication and teamwork skills
• Prepares you for healthy adult relationships and careers
• Helps you experience joy, laughter, and support in daily life

2.) Loneliness: An Epidemic Among Teens
You can be surrounded by people and still feel alone.Many teens experience loneliness, even when they have friends. It's not just about being alone — it’s about feeling misunderstood or disconnected. Social media, pressure to fit in, or not having someone to talk to can all contribute to this feeling. The good news? You’re not alone, and loneliness doesn’t last forever.
Ways to work through loneliness:

• Talk to a trusted adult, counselor, or friend
• Join clubs or activities that align with your interests
• Practice self-compassion — your worth is not defined by how many friends you have
• Volunteer or help someone — connection grows through kindness
• Limit social media if it makes you feel isolated or left out

• You feel safe, supported, and accepted
• You can be yourself without fear of judgment
• You both make time and effort for each other
• You respect each other’s boundaries
• You encourage each other to grow and do the right thing

4.) Communication & Listening Skills

The way you speak and listen shapes your relationships.
Good communication isn’t just about talking — it’s also about listening. Being able to express your feelings respectfully and truly listen to others can build stronger, more honest connections. These skills take practice, but they’re worth learning.
Helpful habits:

• Use “I” statements instead of blame (e.g., “I feel...” instead of “You always...”)
• Make eye contact and put phones away when talking
• Don’t interrupt — listen to understand, not just to reply
• Ask thoughtful questions and show empathy
• Be open to feedback — it's a way to grow, not a sign of failure

5.) Catholic Perspective on Social Wellness
"Made for Connection" — Living Our Faith in Relationships

In the Catholic tradition, we believe that every person is created in the image and likeness of God — made for love, made for relationship, made for community. Social wellness isn’t just a helpful life skill — it’s a sacred part of who we are.
From the very beginning of Scripture, God says: “It is not good for man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). We are designed to grow through connection with others — in friendship, in family, in fellowship, and in service.
Jesus Himself modeled perfect social wellness. He was compassionate, a good listener, inclusive of the marginalized, and deeply present to the people in His life. He formed real friendships with His disciples and was not afraid to weep, laugh, and break bread with others. His relationships were marked by love, truth, and mercy — and we’re called to do the same.

Living out Social Wellness in the Catholic spirit means:

• Seeing Christ in others, especially those who feel left out or lonely
• Building friendships rooted in respect, trust, and care
• Practicing forgiveness, humility, and patience
• Using your words to uplift, not tear down
• Listening with compassion and speaking the truth with love
• Being part of a faith community that supports you and helps you grow

In the Salesian tradition, St. John Bosco built his entire ministry on the importance of joyful, loving relationships. He believed in walking with young people not just as teachers, but as friends and companions in life.

"Kindness is the language the deaf can hear and the blind can see."— Mark Twain

“Without confidence and love, there can be no true education.”— St. John Bosco


In This Section, You’ll Find:

• Informational videos on relationships, friendships, dating, and communication
• Tools for building social confidence and handling social anxiety
• Reflection prompts to help you assess your friendships and connections
• Tips for setting boundaries and recognizing toxic behavior
• Encouragement and faith-based insights on building community and compassion
• Reminders that love — in all its forms — should be kind, respectful, and rooted in dignity

Because your mind matters — even online.

Digital wellness is about using technology in ways that support your mental health, focus, relationships, and overall well-being. It means being aware of how your screen time affects you — physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually — and learning to use tech as a tool, not a trap.

When you're online all the time, it's easy to feel distracted, anxious, or disconnected — even when you're "connected." Mindless scrolling, comparison on social media, or pressure to always be available can take a toll. The good news? You have more power than you think.

Digital wellness is not about giving up your phone — it’s about making mindful choices. It’s about learning when to plug in and when to log off, and creating space in your day for rest, focus, real-life connection, and joy.


1.) Digital Wellness Matters— and How to Practice It
Technology isn’t “bad” — it’s how we use it that matters. Your devices can help you learn, stay in touch with friends, and explore your creativity. But when screens start to dominate your time or attention, they can interfere with your sleep, mood, self-esteem, and relationships.

Digital wellness means:

• Being intentional about your screen time
• Setting boundaries that protect your peace
• Choosing content that inspires instead of drains
• Making time for offline activities that restore you

Ways to practice digital wellness:

• Set time limits for certain apps or overall screen use
• Create “tech-free” times (like during meals or before bed)
• Turn off non-essential notifications
• Follow people who uplift you — unfollow those who don’t
• Replace screen time with something creative or calming when you can
• Check in with yourself: “How do I feel after being online?”

• Feeling anxious, sad, or insecure after scrolling
• Obsessing over likes, views, or followers
• Comparing your appearance, achievements, or life to others
• Losing sleep due to late-night scrolling
• Feeling pressure to post or stay relevant

• Curate your feed to include accounts that inspire peace, joy, and authenticity
• Take breaks — even a few days off can reset your mindset
• Use time limits and phone settings to help with self-control
• Talk to someone if social media is affecting your mood or self-image
• Remember: real life isn’t lived through a screen

Protect your peace.

• Set daily screen limits on your phone settings
• Track your screen time and reflect on patterns
• Use “Do Not Disturb” during homework or quiet time
• Create “wind-down” habits before bed (no screens 30–60 minutes before sleeping)
• Have real-life moments without your phone — no pictures, no pressure, just presence

• Am I using this app, or is it using me?
• How do I feel after using my phone?
• What could I do with 20 minutes offline?

Your time is sacred — don’t give it all to a screen.

A Catholic Perspective on Digital Wellness

Technology is a gift — but it must serve the human person, not replace them.
The Catholic Church takes a balanced and wise view of technology: it recognizes the incredible good it can do — for learning, connection, and evangelization — while also warning against the dangers of a digital world used without discernment.
Here’s what the Church teaches about digital wellness, in light of our faith:


1. Use technology wisely — with purpose and virtue.
The Church urges caution against using technology in ways that harm our dignity, isolate us from real relationships, or dull our moral awareness. Not all digital content is neutral, and we are called to be intentional, discerning, and responsible in how we engage with it.

“Technology should never reduce people to mere data or objects.” — Pope Francis


2. The digital world is a “lived environment.”
We don’t just use the internet — we live on it. The Church recognizes that digital culture is now an integral part of modern life. The question isn’t whether we should engage, but how to do so virtuously — with integrity, presence, and compassion.

Be digital citizens who foster meaningful encounters, not superficial ones.


3. True joy is not found in likes or followers.
Technology can never replace the deeper joy that comes from a relationship with God and others. The Church reminds us: our identity is not based on our digital image, but on our dignity as beloved children of God.

"You are precious in my eyes… and I love you.” — Isaiah 43:4


4. Prioritize real-life relationships.
The Church warns that excessive social media use can weaken family bonds, reduce face-to-face interaction, and create "social hermits." We’re called to build a culture of encounter — one that values real presence over virtual performance.

A Eucharistic community — the Church — can never be replaced by a digital one.


5. Silence, prayer, and attention are sacred.

In a world of constant notifications, the Church teaches that we must intentionally cultivate silence — to think deeply, pray sincerely, and become more attentive to God and to others. Our attention is not something to be bought and sold.

“We need to be able to stop and be silent to hear God’s voice.” — Pope Benedict XVI


6. Practice prudence and responsibility online.
Digital platforms can spread misinformation, hatred, or uncharitable behavior. The Church calls the faithful to fact-check, avoid gossip or division, and resist the temptation to hide behind online anonymity.

“Use the internet as a place of truth and love, not harm.” — Pope Francis


7. Technology must serve the human person.
Even with emerging tools like AI, the Church reminds us that technology should enhance — not replace — human dignity, compassion, and moral responsibility. We must never let machines or platforms replace what only God can be.

“Do not be afraid of new technologies — but do not idolize them either.” — Vatican teaching on AI and humanity

“The digital world can be an environment rich in humanity — a network not of wires, but of people.” — Pope Francis


In Summary:
The Church encourages us to be wise, intentional, and prayerful in our use of technology. Like all tools, it should be used in a way that supports human dignity, fosters real relationships, and helps us grow in truth and love.
Let your digital life reflect your values, your faith, and your humanity.

📌 In This Section, You’ll Find:

• Tips for healthy screen time habits
• Reflection tools to assess your relationship with technology
• Research-based insights on social media and mental health
• Journaling prompts for mindful tech use
• Catholic teachings on digital virtue and responsibility
• Videos and articles on managing digital stress
• Printable resources for a digital detox or screen-free challenge

 

At St. Francis High School, Spiritual Wellness is an essential part of who we are. Rooted in the Salesian tradition of reason, religion, and loving kindness, this aspect of wellness helps students grow in their relationship with God, explore life’s deeper questions, and discover what gives them meaning, peace, and purpose.

Spiritual Wellness is not only about religious practice — it’s also about becoming more grounded, reflective, and compassionate. Whether through prayer, acts of service, quiet reflection, or exploring your values, nurturing your spirit helps you become the best version of yourself — a person of faith, integrity, and love.

Living the Values of St. John Bosco

St. John Bosco believed in guiding young people with reason, religion, and loving kindness — not with fear or punishment, but with trust, encouragement, and heart. His example teaches us how to live with purpose, compassion, and joy — even in the small moments of everyday life.

• Loving Kindness in Action

• Living Don Bosco’s values means being someone who chooses kindness — not just in big gestures, but in everyday interactions. It means:

• Greeting people with warmth, even if you're having a tough day
• Reaching out to someone who seems left out or discouraged
• Being patient with others (and yourself), especially during stressful times
• Forgiving mistakes and giving second chances

• Using Reason to Make Good Choices

• St. John Bosco taught that we should treat others fairly, explain our actions, and guide with understanding. At school, this could mean:
• Taking a moment to think before reacting
• Being honest about how you feel, without putting others down
• Working through disagreements calmly and respectfully
• Understanding that mistakes are part of learning, not reasons to give up

• Bringing Faith into Daily Life

• Don Bosco believed faith should be part of everyday life — joyful, lived out with hope and energy. You can live this by:
• Taking time each day for prayer, gratitude, or reflection
• Trusting in God during stressful times (like before a test, game, or tough conversation)
• Being a light to others — through your attitude, actions, and example
• Celebrating Mass or faith events as ways to reconnect with your purpose

• Creating a Home Where Everyone Belongs

• St. John Bosco’s schools were known as places of home, school, church, and playground. You live his legacy by helping create a community that feels safe, fun, and meaningful. This includes:
• Welcoming others, especially new or younger students
• Taking school seriously while still enjoying the journey
• Building friendships rooted in respect and care
• Knowing that your presence, words, and energy matter

The Power of Prayer

Prayer is more than just reciting words — it’s a way to talk to God, reflect on your life, and find peace in the middle of a busy world. Whether you're asking for help, saying thank you, or just sitting in silence with God, prayer is a personal connection that helps you feel supported, grounded, and loved.

• Why Prayer Matters:

• Gives you space to be honest — with God and with yourself
• Reduces stress and anxiety by helping you pause and breathe
• Clears your mind so you can face challenges with strength and focus
• Brings comfort and hope, especially when life feels overwhelming
• Deepens your relationship with God and reminds you that you’re never alone

Personal and Communal Prayer

Prayer is one of the most personal ways we can connect with God — and it looks different for everyone. It can be structured or spontaneous, silent or spoken, joyful or full of questions.

• Personal prayer is your one-on-one time with God. It might happen at home, in a chapel, or quietly during a walk. You might pray for guidance, say thank you, or just sit in God’s presence.
• Communal prayer brings us together — in Mass, school-wide prayer, retreats, or classroom blessings. These shared moments help us feel connected, supported, and grounded in faith as a school family.

 "Prayer is the key of the morning and the bolt of the evening." – Mahatma Gandhi

Meditation, Journaling, and Moments of Silence

Taking time for stillness helps you slow down, breathe deeply, and hear what’s going on inside you.

• Meditation can be spiritual (like repeating a prayer phrase or Scripture verse) or mindful (focusing on your breath and letting go of stress). It’s not about “emptying” your mind — it’s about creating space for peace and awareness.
• Journaling is a powerful way to talk to God, reflect on your thoughts, or express gratitude. It’s private and pressure-free — there’s no right way to do it.
• Moments of silence don’t have to be long to be meaningful. Even 30 seconds of quiet before class or at the end of the day can center you.

 “Be still and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10

Purpose & Vocation: Discovering Who You’re Meant to Be

At St. Francis High School, we believe that every person is created with a unique purpose. Your vocation isn’t just about your future job — it’s about discovering who you are, what you’re passionate about, and how you can use your gifts to make the world better. St. John Bosco taught that holiness means becoming your truest, best self — full of joy, courage, and love. This section helps you reflect on your path and the person you're becoming, both spiritually and personally.

Exploring Your Unique Gifts and Calling

Each of us has strengths, interests, and talents that make us who we are. Whether you're artistic, good with people, a strong leader, or a deep thinker — these are all signs of your unique gifts.

• Discovering your gifts takes time, but you can start by asking:
  What brings me joy? What do others say I’m good at? What gives me energy?
• Your calling is where your gifts meet the world’s needs — a way of living that helps others and gives your life meaning.
• God may call you to a profession, but also to be a loving friend, a peacemaker, or a voice for justice.

“God has created me to do Him some definite service.” – St. John Henry Newman

Seeing Education as Part of Your Spiritual Journey

School isn’t just about tests and grades — it’s a key part of discovering your purpose.

• Every subject you study, every challenge you face, and every success you earn is shaping the person you're becoming.
• Learning teaches discipline, curiosity, resilience, and empathy — all important for your vocation and your faith.
• St. John Bosco believed that education should not only form the mind, but also the heart and soul.

 “Without confidence and love, there can be no true education.” – St. John Bosco

Asking: What Kind of Person Am I Becoming?

This is one of the most important questions you can ask. It’s not just about your future job or achievements — it’s about who you are when no one is watching.

• Are you growing in compassion?
• Are you learning from your mistakes?
• Are you becoming more patient, honest, and hopeful?

Checking in with yourself regularly helps you stay aligned with your values, faith, and long-term goals. You don’t have to have it all figured out — just be open to growing.

 “Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.” – St. Catherine of Siena

Living with Gratitude: A Heart That Sees the Good

Gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you” — it’s about seeing life through the eyes of love. It helps you notice the blessings around you, big or small, and remember that you’re never alone.

Why Gratitude Matters

• It helps reduce stress and anxiety.

• It shifts your focus from what's missing to what's meaningful.

• It improves your relationships, mood, and even sleep.

• It deepens your connection to God and others.

How to Practice Gratitude at School

• Be thankful for your health, your friends, or even a moment of laughter between classes.

• Say “thank you” to a teacher who supports you or challenges you to grow.

• Write down three things you're grateful for at the end of each day — even simple things, like sunshine or your favorite lunch.

• Pray with gratitude, thanking God not just for the big moments, but for daily gifts you might overlook.

Gratitude is Spiritual

• When you’re grateful, you recognize that life is a gift.

• Gratitude opens your heart to joy, generosity, and peace.

• It helps you see God’s hand in the everyday — in people, moments, and even challenges.

 “The best way to show gratitude to God is to accept everything, even my problems, with joy.”
– St. Teresa of Calcutta

Compassion, Service & Justice: Putting Faith into Motion

Spiritual wellness isn’t just about what you believe — it’s about how you live it out. Compassion, service, and justice are ways of putting your faith into motion. Inspired by Jesus and the Salesian tradition of St. John Bosco, we’re called to love with action, serve with empathy, and stand up for what’s right. This part of your spiritual journey is about becoming a person who sees the needs of others — and responds with heart, courage, and kindness.

Putting Love Into Action

Love isn’t just a feeling — it’s something we do. It shows up in the way we treat others, the choices we make, and how we show up for our community.

• Helping a classmate, standing up for someone who’s hurting, checking in with a friend — these are all ways to love like Jesus did.
• True love is selfless, not performative. It doesn’t need to be noticed or rewarded.
• St. John Bosco believed in meeting young people where they were and walking with them in friendship, not judgment — that’s love in action.

“Let us strive to do good while we still have time.” – St. John Bosco

Engaging in Service Rooted in Empathy and Dignity

Service becomes sacred when we see others through the eyes of compassion and love.

• Empathy means putting yourself in someone else’s shoes. It asks, What might they be feeling? What do they need most?
• Dignity means treating every person as valuable, no matter their background or circumstances. That includes classmates, staff, and especially your teachers.
• When you serve others with empathy and dignity, you’re not just offering help — you’re offering respect, presence, and love.

 Real service listens. It honors the person, not just the problem.

Building Peace and Seeking Justice in Daily Life

You don’t need to wait until you’re older to fight for what’s right. You can live for justice right now by choosing peace, fairness, and respect — even in small everyday moments.

• Avoid gossip. Speak up when someone’s being excluded. Treat others with fairness.
• Justice means creating a world where everyone has what they need to thrive — safety, dignity, and opportunity.
• As a Catholic school, we’re called to work for peace, care for creation, and stand in solidarity with those on the margins.

 “If you want peace, work for justice.” – Pope Paul VI

In Summary:

Living with compassion and justice means asking each day:

How can I use my voice, my time, and my heart to make the world better for someone else?

Whether through big service projects or small acts of kindness, your everyday actions have the power to bring light, healing, and hope.

Community & Belonging: A Place Where You Are Known and Loved

At St. Francis High School, we believe that everyone deserves to feel like they belong — not just as a student, but as a whole person. Inspired by St. John Bosco’s dream of creating a school that felt like a second home, we work to build a community rooted in faith, friendship, joy, and care. When you feel safe, supported, and valued, you can grow into the best version of yourself — academically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Creating a Family Spirit at School

St. John Bosco often said, “Education is a matter of the heart.” He knew that students learn best in a place where they are loved, respected, and welcomed.

• A “family spirit” at school means everyone looks out for each other — no one is left behind.
• It means your teachers, classmates, and mentors care about your success and your wellbeing.
• It also means taking responsibility for your part in building a positive, kind, and inclusive school culture.

Finding Support in Friendships and Mentorship

We were never meant to go through life alone.

• Friendships offer laughter, loyalty, and someone to walk through the highs and lows with.
• Mentors — like teachers, coaches, counselors, or older students — can guide you, encourage you, and remind you of your worth.
• Whether you're looking for advice, a shoulder to lean on, or just someone who gets you, supportive relationships are key to your emotional and spiritual growth.

 A good friend reminds you who you are — and helps you become who you're meant to be.

Have Compassion for Your Teachers. 

Behind every lesson is someone who has spent time, energy, and heart preparing to help you grow. Teachers show up every day — not just to teach, but to care, guide, and walk with you.

• A kind word, a respectful attitude, or a simple “thank you” can go a long way.
• Be especially welcoming and supportive toward new teachers. Remember, they’re still getting to know the community and may feel nervous or overwhelmed. Your kindness can make a lasting difference.

 Growing in a Church That Celebrates Life and Love

Our Catholic and Salesian faith reminds us that God is present — not just in Church, but in community, relationships, and daily life.

Church Is Something You Live, Not Just Somewhere You Go
At St. Francis, we follow St. John Bosco’s dream of a school that feels like:

• A home where you belong
• A school where you grow
• A church where your spirit deepens
• A playground where joy and friendship thrive

This is what it means to live Salesian Spirituality — where faith is personal, practical, and full of heart.

Growing Through Faith, Friendship, and Joy

• Faith comes alive in Mass, retreats, and prayer — but also in kindness, laughter, and everyday choices.
• Being part of the Church means walking together, lifting each other up, and celebrating life as a gift.
• We grow closer to God by recognizing His presence in one another — especially those who feel unheard or unseen.

Loving Like Jesus Did

• Salesian spirituality teaches us to live with reason, religion, and loving kindness.
• It’s about being people of hope, compassion, and purpose — in and out of the classroom.
• Every act of care and inclusion becomes a way to live the Gospel.

In a community of faith and joy, your heart grows wider — and your spirit grows stronger.

In Summary:

Faith isn’t just part of your life at St. Francis — it’s the heart of it. Through the Salesian way of living, we grow in joy, connection, and love. Whether in the chapel, the classroom, or the courtyard, you are invited to be part of something bigger: a Church that celebrates life, lifts others up, and walks with you every step of the way.

“Run, jump, shout, but do not sin. Let nothing disturb you.”
– St. John Bosco

 

You’re Not Alone-Reach Out Anytime

Confidentiality: What You Share Stays Between Us—With a Few Exceptions

One of the most common questions students ask is, “Are you going to tell my parents?” It’s a great question—and the answer depends on something called confidentiality.

Confidentiality means that what you talk about with a wellness counselor is kept private. Our goal is to create a safe, trusting space where you can speak openly. In most cases, everything shared in a counseling session stays just between you and the counselor.

However, there are important exceptions—times when we are legally and ethically required to share certain information to protect your safety or the safety of others. These include:

In these cases, we may need to involve parents, guardians, or appropriate school staff to make sure everyone stays safe. But even then, we’ll talk with you about what’s happening and work together to support you.

Remember: Reaching out is a sign of strength, and we’re here to help you feel supported, safe, and heard.