Nurturing the Whole Person

Physical Environment

From the beginning on Washington Street, the Sisters of St. Francis make their private chapel available for student prayer and reflection.

When the Eggertsville campus opens in 1930, it features a beautifully designed chapel to which students may retreat for private prayer and meditation throughout the day.

The statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus enjoys a prominent place in the main foyer, greeting all who enter through the front doors.

Spiritual Celebrations

SHA celebrates the Feast of Christ the King each November. Seniors design this special event that encourages all students to strengthen their commitment to Jesus as the center of their lives.

The SHA community gathers for monthly celebrations of the Eucharist, with different classes and groups planning the liturgies.

Prayer services occur throughout the year, offering students the opportunity to deepen their spiritual lives.

Students participate in yearly retreats for self-reflection and personal growth.

As it did at SHA’s founding, the school’s motto, Christus Super Omnia — Christ Above All — continues to inspire the Academy community to live as Jesus would.

Religious Curriculum

Religious studies are required each year. Courses include Scripture, Sacraments, Christology, Morality, World Religions, Social Justice, Christian Life Choices, and Spirituality of Womanhood.

Highlights from the lives of Jesus, Saint Francis and Saint Clare, as well as Franciscan values, are prominent themes throughout religious studies.

Attention to the Body

Physical education classes are held as early as 1907.

The Academy’s basketball team begins to compete in the 1930s.

Students may participate in 16 varsity sports to strengthen their bodies and minds while developing a healthy spirit of competition.

To maintain healthy bodies, SHA offers students a fully equipped weight and workout room featuring cardiovascular and strength building equipment. It also offers students a diverse range of extracurricular activities and classes designed to promote a healthy lifestyle.