About

Welcome Message from the Principal

Spartan Nation,

As we gear up for the start of the school year, I am thrilled to welcome our dedicated students, passionate educators, and supportive families to what promises to be an incredible journey of learning, growth, and collaboration.

Each new school year brings with it a sense of anticipation and excitement, and this year is no exception. Our school has always stood as a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and community, and I am confident that this upcoming year will continue to be the same.

Our commitment to academic excellence remains unwavering. We have been working diligently to implement teaching strategies that empower our students to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, and lifelong learners. With a focus on fostering creativity and nurturing curiosity, we are determined to provide an educational experience that prepares our students for success in an ever-evolving world.

I'm also excited to share that we have an array of engaging extracurricular activities and events planned for the upcoming year. From arts and athletics to clubs and community service initiatives, there will be ample opportunities for our students to explore their interests and passions beyond the classroom. These experiences not only enrich their lives but also contribute to building well-rounded individuals with a strong sense of empathy and leadership.

None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our parents, guardians, and the wider community. Your involvement, encouragement, and partnership play a vital role in creating an environment where our students can thrive and excel.

I invite you all to stay connected with us through our various communication channels. Interested parties who do not currently receive our school news can sign up on the Get Involved section of the District website. We also encourage families and community members to follow our Twitter handles @FHCPrincipal and @FHCAD. Together, we can celebrate achievements, share insights, and continue to build the strong bonds that make our community truly exceptional!

As we stand on the threshold of a new school year, I am filled with gratitude and enthusiasm. Let us embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead with open hearts and minds. Here's to a year of growth, achievement, and unforgettable moments!

Warmest Regards,

Dr. Suzanne M. Leake
Principal

Vision

FHC Vision
I. Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment At FHCHS stakeholders will work collaboratively to provide its students with educational excellence. The district curriculum and state standards will provide a baseline for academic expectations and preparing students for life. Classroom instruction will be driven by effective research-based strategies. We will monitor student learning through the PLC process of evaluating assessment data.
II. Climate FHCHS will maintain a diverse and creative learning environment that promotes a sense of mutual responsibility and respect. We will continue our commitment to maintaining the emotional and physical safety of all stakeholders. Open and ongoing communication is expected among all members of our school community. Individual and collective effort and achievement will be recognized and celebrated.
III. Community Engagement FHCHS will strive to develop a strong commitment between the community and the school by providing opportunities for students to serve and participate within the extended community. The school will serve as a learning resource to the community and will, in turn, call upon the extended community to support our mission and vision.

Values

FHC Vision
I. Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment We are committed to professional development and reflective practice. We will identify and communicate clear learning targets to both parents and students. Instruction will be creative and differentiated to meet the needs of all learners. We will ensure that assessments measure the intended learning targets and provide frequent feedback to students.
II. Climate The teachers will commit to using a variety of learning modalities to help each student reach his or her own academic potential. We will provide learning and working environment that is free from harassment and discrimination. We will maintain order and discipline through consistent enforcement of FHSD code of conduct and FHCHS policies and procedures to provide a physically safe learning environment. We value and create opportunities for input from all members of our school community. Decisions will be made based on what is best for student achievement. We will utilize all forms of communication to promote recognition of student and teacher achievement.
III. Community Engagement We will encourage students to participate in activities such as community service, cooperative work and learning programs, athletics and the arts in which they will interact within the extended community. We will recognize community support and provide an open forum for strengthening our partnerships.

History of FHC

August 21, 1997 - Francis Howell Central opened its door to 952 freshmen and sophomore students and 75 teachers. The first year, FHC offered 27 sports and activities for students to participate in. Pictured to the right are members of the FHSD Board of Education along with Mr. Don Muench, Principal.

FHC was the third high school built in the district and it was built in three phases. Upon opening, there was no stadium, theatre or library; therefore, football games were played at Hollenbeck, plays were performed in the band room and the library was in the multi-purpose room.

The second phase of construction completed the building with the exception of the theatre. The third phase of construction completed in 1999 included the theatre and the stadium. The stadium was dedicated to Mr. Don Muench who served as the first Principal of Francis Howell Central from 1997 - 2001.

To date, Francis Howell Central has been led by 5 Principals.
There are 6 staff members who have served at FHC since the building opened, and eight current staff members are alumni of FHC.
Notable alumni include Cara Mason ('00), David Karandish ('01) and Pierre Desir ('08).
In October 2010, a portion of Hwy N near the entrance to FHC was named in honor of U.S. Marine Lance Corporal Phillip Vinnedge ('09) who was killed in Afghanistan supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

School Improvement Plan

Pyramids of Intervention

Mission

Our mission is to prepare students to be productive and responsible members of a democratic society by promoting excellence through academic achievement.

School Handbook

The student handbook summarizes District policy and contains general guidelines and information. Translated copies of this Handbook are available. Contact the school office.

View the Handbook