St. Francis School in Thunder Bay is inviting the community to mark its 50th anniversary during a special celebration on May 6, 2026. The event will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the school, located at 600 Redwood Ave. W.
The school is part of the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board, which manages 20 schools throughout the region. Since its doors first opened in 1976, the school has functioned as a local landmark and a place for families to connect. Current principal Silvana Marchese and the school community are welcoming former and current students, staff, and friends to join them in commemorating five decades of faith, learning, and community.
Those attending the anniversary celebration will have the opportunity to tour the building and share memories of their time at the school. Organizers are encouraging guests to reflect on the institution’s history, including its early days as an open concept school and its long-standing identity as home to the Lions.
In addition to its role as a neighbourhood hub, the school has also been recognized for academic achievement, having previously ranked among the top 50 elementary schools in Ontario according to the Fraser Institute.