Saint Frances Academy: A Legacy of Education and Empowerment

Saint Frances Academy stands as a landmark in American educational history. It holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating African American Catholic educational institution in the United States. Founded on the principles of providing education to those historically denied it, the academy has evolved into a beacon of opportunity and academic excellence.

Historical Roots and Founding Principles

The academy's story began in 1828 with a courageous mission: to teach "children of color to read the Bible." In an era defined by American slavery, this act was not only revolutionary but also illegal. This bold initiative was spearheaded by Mother Mary Lange and the Oblate Sisters of Providence, the first Catholic order of women of African descent. Mother Lange, along with Maria Balas, started teaching local African American children in their home in early 1828.

Father James Hector Joubert, a French-born priest, connected with Lange and Balas, seeking to educate Haitian refugee children in reading and religious studies. This collaboration led to the establishment of The Oblate School for Colored Girls on June 13, 1828, situated on St. Mary’s Court in Baltimore City.

The school's early years involved several relocations, including a rented home on George Street and later a home on Richmond Street, which served as the motherhouse for 31 years. By 1832, The Oblate School celebrated its first graduating class.

In 1853, the institution was renamed Saint Frances School for Girls, in honor of St. Frances of Rome, who shared a similar commitment to religiously educating women. The name was subsequently shortened to St. Frances Academy. Following the Civil War, the academy moved to its current location on East Chase Street in East Baltimore in 1871, driven by increasing enrollment demands.

While initially established to educate African American girls, St. Frances Academy embraced co-education in June 1974. Today, it remains the oldest African American Catholic school in continuous operation in the United States, dedicated to serving Baltimore's Black community.

Academic Excellence and Curriculum

Today, Saint Frances Academy offers a traditional, co-educational, college-preparatory curriculum for students in grades nine through twelve. The academy is approved by the Maryland State Department of Education and accredited by the Commission on Secondary Schools of the Middle States Association.

The school emphasizes a rigorous academic environment, fostering critical thinking, and preparing students for higher education. An honors program is available for select students, providing an enriched learning experience. Additionally, all students are required to complete a community service component, instilling a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement.

Saint Frances Academy maintains a formal dress code, requiring students to wear blazers, khaki pants, and black or brown shoes.

A Focus on Values and Discipline

Rooted in its founding mission, Saint Frances Academy emphasizes instilling in its students pride in their African-American heritage and reinforcing essential values such as attendance, homework completion, and disciplined study habits, all aimed at building self-esteem.

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The academy fosters an environment of honor and respect. Students are expected to conduct themselves as Christian young men and women, both within the school and in the broader community. The school's disciplinary rules are designed to create a harmonious atmosphere where students can work together toward common goals.

The Academic Honor Code reinforces honesty, responsibility, and intellectual integrity. Students pledge not to lie, cheat, or steal, and to uphold the principles of academic honesty.

Athletics

Saint Frances Academy offers a variety of sports programs for its students. The school's athletic teams are known as the Panthers, and their colors are blue, white, black, and gold.

In recent years, the football program has gained significant attention. Under the leadership of coach Biff Poggi, the program experienced a period of rapid growth in terms of talent acquisition and competitiveness. However, this also led to controversy, with some schools refusing to play against St. Frances due to safety concerns related to the size and skill of the recruited players. Despite the challenges, the football team achieved remarkable success, including winning the MIAA championship.

The academy also boasts championship basketball teams, despite not having its own gymnasium. The Lady Panthers basketball team won the IAAMS “A” Conference Championship in 2025-2026.

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Location and Facilities

Saint Frances Academy is located at 501 East Chase Street in the Johnston Square neighborhood of Baltimore, MD. The campus spans 2.96 acres in an urban setting.

Key Statistics

Grades: 9-12
Enrollment: Approximately 208 students
Yearly Tuition: \$11,300 (with no additional student or technology fees)
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Average Class Size: 18 students
Student to Teacher Ratio: 15:1
Application Deadline: December 17 / February 24 / rolling

Notable Alumni

Saint Frances Academy has produced numerous accomplished individuals across various fields, including:

Carlton "Bub" Carrington: NBA Lottery pick
Adrian "Ace" Baldwin Jr.: College basketball player
Michael Van Buren Jr.: College football player

The academy's alumni network serves as a testament to its commitment to nurturing talent and fostering success.

Financial Aid and Affordability

Saint Frances Academy is committed to making education accessible to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. The average financial aid grant is \$2,200.

A "Miracle on East Chase Street"

Despite its location in an inner-city neighborhood and the challenges faced by its students, Saint Frances Academy has consistently achieved remarkable outcomes. With a diverse student body, many of whom come from single-parent households and face economic hardship, the academy maintains a low dropout rate and a high college attendance rate. This success is attributed to the school's focus on instilling pride, promoting basic values, and creating a supportive learning environment.

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