St. Francis Episcopal School
General Information
About (Overview)
St. Francis Episcopal School is an independent, co-educational, college-preparatory school in Houston, Texas, serving learners from early childhood through grade 12. The institution was founded in 1952 as a parish school and has since grown into a prominent Episcopal day school with two campuses—Piney Point for lower and middle grades, and Couper campus for primary and upper school. Throughout its evolution, St. Francis has remained grounded in its Anglican identity and commitment to nurturing students as “people for others,” integrating faith, character, and excellence in education.
The school provides a learning environment that encourages inquiry, creativity, intellectual risk-taking, and reflective spirituality. Students engage across academics, arts, and athletics, while service and community remain central to its ethos. With small classes, a broad curriculum, and strong community bonds, St. Francis aims to produce graduates who are compassionate leaders, critical thinkers, and lifelong learners.
Contact Information
Piney Point / Lower & Middle Campus Address: 335 Piney Point Road, Houston, TX 77024
Couper / Upper & Primary Campus Address: 2300 South Piney Point Road, Houston, TX 77063
Phone Number: 713-458-6100
Head of School: Dr. Chelsea Collins
School Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1952 |
| Type | Independent Episcopal Day School |
| Grades Served | Ages 2 through 12 (PK to Grade 12) |
| Enrollment | Over 900 students |
| Mascot / Team Name | Wolves |
| School Colors | Blue and Gray |
| Athletics Conference | Houston Junior Preparatory Conference / TAPPS (upper school) |
| Motto / Ethos | “People for Others” (reflecting service orientation) |
| Accreditation / Membership | Accredited by independent and Episcopal school associations |
St. Francis Episcopal School Rankings
| Category | Ranking / Recognition |
|---|---|
| Niche Overall Grade | A+ (top among private K–12 schools in Houston) |
| Best Christian / Episcopal Schools | Among top in Greater Houston area |
| Best Private K–12 Schools (Texas) | Ranked in top tiers |
| College Readiness / Graduation | 100% graduation and college acceptance rate |
St. Francis Episcopal School Academics
St. Francis Episcopal School Faculties / Departments
- English / Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science / Engineering
- Social Studies / History
- World Languages
- Fine & Performing Arts
- Physical Education / Athletics
- Technology & Digital Learning
- Religion / Spiritual Life
- College Counseling
St. Francis Episcopal School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) courses in upper school
- Honors and accelerated tracks in core subjects
- Inquiry-based curriculum in lower and middle years
- STEAM integration across curriculum
- Visual arts, music, theatre, dance electives
- World language instruction (Spanish, possibly others)
- Leadership & service-learning initiatives
- Athletics, clubs, and extracurricular opportunities
Online Learning
St. Francis Episcopal School primarily delivers its education in-person across its two campuses. However, it uses digital tools and technology-integrated instruction, allowing students to access assignments, collaborate, and use educational platforms. In periods of disruption or special circumstances, remote or hybrid learning options may be enabled to maintain continuity of instruction.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score / Benchmark |
|---|---|
| SAT | ~1260 (average as reported in surveys) |
| ACT | ~26 (average among respondents) |
| AP Exams | Many exam scores of 4 or 5 in offered courses |
Retention and Graduation Rates
St. Francis Episcopal School boasts a 100% graduation rate for its upper school, with all graduates typically matriculating to four-year colleges and universities. Student retention is strong across grade levels, bolstered by the school’s emphasis on community, continuity, and long-term relationships with families and learners.
St. Francis Episcopal School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
St. Francis considers academic record, standardized test scores, recommendations, and holistic fit. While there is no single fixed cutoff, many admitted upper school students present GPA averages in the A/B+ range and competitive SAT/ACT scores aligning with the school averages.
St. Francis Episcopal School Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate / Admission Mode |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Selective admissions with required interview and placement review |
St. Francis Episcopal School Application Requirements
Applicants submit an enrollment application, prior school transcripts or reports, standardized test or assessment results (for upper grades), letters of recommendation, and often a personal essay. An admissions interview is typically required to assess alignment with the school’s values and educational approach. The process is selective and seeks students who will thrive in a rigorous, faith-informed environment.
Application Process
- Submit application during open enrollment window
- Provide transcripts, assessment data, and recommendations
- Schedule and complete admissions interview
- Receive acceptance decision
- Complete enrollment paperwork and orientation
St. Francis Episcopal School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | December (for next academic year) |
| Interview Period | Following application submissions |
| Decision Notification | Early spring |
| Enrollment Confirmation | Late spring |
Essay Prompt
Upper school applicants may be asked to submit a personal statement reflecting on their motivations, interests, or how they expect to contribute to the St. Francis community. The prompt changes periodically to align with the school’s values and vision.
St. Francis Episcopal School Scholarships
Though independent and tuition-based, St. Francis offers financial aid and merit-based scholarships to families demonstrating need or exceptional ability. These aid awards aim to increase access and diversity in the student body.
St. Francis Episcopal School Tuition and Fees
| Grade / Division | Annual Tuition (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Primary & Lower School | ~$30,000–32,000 |
| Middle School | ~$33,000–34,000 |
| Upper School (High School) | ~$34,900+ |
Note: These tuition figures are approximate and based on recent published data; actual costs may vary.
St. Francis Episcopal School Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The student population spans early learners (age 2) through grade 12, with a relatively balanced gender distribution. Students come from a range of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, reflecting the greater Houston area. This diversity enriches classroom dynamics and fosters cross-cultural understanding among learners.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
A portion of the student body receives financial aid or need-based assistance, enabling families of varying economic circumstances to enroll. Students with learning differences or challenges are supported with accommodations and differentiated instruction to help them flourish in the academic and spiritual environment.
Student Body
| Category | Value / Approximation |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | Over 900 students |
| International Students | Limited, depending on family relocation |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | Low ratio to support personalized learning |
University Diversity
St. Francis Episcopal School cultivates a community that values inclusivity, respect, and empathy. The school intentionally integrates diverse perspectives into its curriculum, chapel, service programs, and student life activities. Embracing faith traditions, cultural backgrounds, and differing viewpoints, St. Francis encourages students to learn from one another, engage in civic responsibility, and act as citizens of a pluralistic world. The school fosters belonging—through mentoring, advisory systems, affinity groups, and service oriented initiatives. By weaving diversity and inclusion into the fabric of its institutional identity, St. Francis strives to prepare students not just academically, but socially and morally, to engage respectfully in a diverse society.
Average Earnings
As a K–12 institution, St. Francis does not track alumni earnings directly. However, its graduates historically matriculate at highly selective colleges and universities, which often correlate with strong career outcomes. The rigorous academics, values-based education, and strong college counseling suggest that alumni are well-prepared to pursue meaningful careers in fields such as business, academia, healthcare, arts, and public service. Through its holistic approach, the school gives students the intellectual, ethical, and relational tools that contribute to long-term success.
St. Francis Episcopal School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
St. Francis employs experienced educators, clergy staff, counselors, and support personnel committed to its mission. Teachers typically hold advanced degrees and are selected both for academic expertise and alignment with the school’s Episcopal identity and values. Staff includes experts in admissions, college counseling, chapel, student life, and operations.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Many faculty have specialized training in inquiry-based learning, arts integration, faith-based education, and differentiated instruction. Some have published works, led curricular innovation, or served as leaders in independent school associations. Faculty engagement in the local and national educational community enhances the school’s reputation for excellence.
St. Francis Episcopal School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
St. Francis is a day school and does not provide on-campus housing. Its campuses offer state-of-the-art facilities: libraries, art studios, performance halls, science labs, athletic fields, and chapel spaces. Students engage in robust student life—clubs, arts, athletics, service opportunities, retreats, and community events. The school’s culture emphasizes faith, leadership, and service, giving students many avenues to belong, lead, and serve.
Transportation
Transportation is provided by families or private means; the school does not operate a widespread bussing system. Students travel to either the Piney Point or Couper campus depending on grade level. Drop-off and pickup protocols, safe pathways, and clear campus access support commuting families. Given Houston traffic, parents coordinate schedules to ensure punctual and safe arrival.