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Dear Parents, Staff, Alumni, and SFDS Community, 

It is with great pride and excitement that I write this letter of introduction to you as the Principal/CEO of Saint Francis de Sales High School. As an alumna, I am honored to lead a school that has given me so much.  Laura Marney said, “No matter who you are or where you are, instinct tells you to go home.” And I am so happy I am home.

Since graduating from SFDS, I have earned a B.A in secondary education from St. Xavier University, a Masters in Education Leadership from Aurora University, and I am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Aurora University. I am a first-generation South Chicago kid that was blessed to have been raised to believe that the only limitations that exist are the ones that you set for yourself. This is what I want to instill in our students, a sincere belief that with hard work they can rise to any height. 

I am convinced that we are in one of the most exciting times in education. We are facing many challenges, yet we have some of the best opportunities to engage learners, the community, and each other to continue to shape what teaching and learning can look like at SFDS. 

I know I want us to be great. What does greatness mean? Greatness is neither a destination, nor a moment in time, but it is a journey towards a consistent pattern of behavior that results in constant progress and achievement. This road will inevitably be difficult and we will face challenges but what I can promise is that we will also experience moments of growth and joy. 

To our new kiddos, I cannot wait to meet each of you! To our returning ones, I am so happy to see you. I hope that you all are excited for this coming school year!

In closing, please know that my door is always open to you. I wholeheartedly welcome your conversation and positive input throughout this year.

Together, we will make this a great year. Excellence happens on purpose!

Sincerely, 

Roni Facen 

rfacen@sfdshs.org 

Principal/CEO Saint Francis de Sales High School