This FAQ section will continue to grow as we move along this new path, providing information and support to our community throughout the process, both here and on the ‘Co-Div’ section of the website.  Currently, our communications are focused on sharing a high-level look at this mission expansion. 

                                                           FAQs last updated 6.17.2026

Co-Divisional General FAQs

What does “co-divisional” mean?

Co-divisional is an innovative approach to learning and student development. Jesuit High School Sacramento will become one school with two academic divisions: a boys’ division and a girls’ division, both on Jesuit’s 52+ acre campus. Students will learn primarily in single-sex classrooms, with each division offering individualized retreats, including Kairos, as well as other special program opportunities.  Social and other co-curricular activities will be shared experiences. This unique model preserves the benefits of single-sex education while expanding access to Jesuit’s mission.

Is this the same as becoming coed?

No, co-divisional is not traditional coeducation. Boys and girls will have separate divisions, maintaining the integrity of single-sex learning. Students will come together for shared experiences in athletics, arts, clubs, and social activities. In contrast, coed schools have no separation of boys and girls in any area. Jesuit will have defined separation; thus, it is co-divisional.

Will boys and girls always be separated?

No. Students will interact in shared spaces before school, during passing periods, at lunch, and after school, and participate together in co-curricular activities. Some examples may include:

• Performing arts
• Athletics, as defined by the sport
• Academic Teams and Student-led clubs
• Flex Periods
• Service programs

As part of the co-divisional model, as students mature and progress through the college-preparatory curriculum, senior-year academics will be delivered in a blended classroom. There may be some exceptions for students doing work well above grade level in highly advanced or specialty coursework, and these will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

When will co-divisional begin?

The school will begin operating in a co-divisional model for the 2027-2028 school year. 

Which grade levels will be open to girls enrolling in Jesuit’s first co-divisional school year (2027–2028)?

• Girls may apply for freshman admission
• Girls may apply for transfer admission into their sophomore or junior year 

Is Jesuit the first to do this?

Jesuit will be the first co-divisional high school in California, a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in education. Other successful models, each with their own adaptations but similar core concepts, include:

• Regis Jesuit High School – Colorado
• Malden Catholic – Massachusetts
• St. Mary’s Prep – Michigan

What is Jesuit High School’s expected enrollment growth?

Jesuit High School anticipates gradual enrollment growth as it expands to serve both boys and girls, with a long-term target capacity of approximately 1,100 students.

Admissions FAQs

What grade levels are open for admission in 2027–2028?

For the 2027–2028 school year, for boys and girls, Jesuit High School will offer freshman (9th grade) admission along with transfer opportunities for sophomores (10th grade) and juniors (11th grade).

Which grade levels can girls apply to Jesuit High School starting in 2027–2028?

Girls may apply for freshman (9th grade) admission for the 2027–2028 school year. Transfer applications for sophomore (10th grade) and junior (11th grade) will also be accepted.

How can my student visit Jesuit High School and learn more about the admissions process?

Our premier admissions event is Open House on October 18, 2026, when the entire campus will be activated with activities, information, teachers, coaches, leaders, and fun for the entire family. Prospective students in 8th – 10th grade can also attend an Admissions Preview Day (previously called Shadow Day), held most Wednesdays in the fall and winter, to experience campus life, academics, and community in a small-group personalized setting. Additional admissions events, such as special sports or arts days; standard admissions, transfer admission and financial aid info nights; and personal family tours, are other ways to get to know Jesuit and meet the Admissions team, who are here to help you.

What is an Admissions Preview Day at Jesuit High School and when can I sign up?

Admissions Preview Days (APDs) offer an opportunity for prospective students in 8th-10th grades to visit our campus and experience two Jesuit classes in the co-divisional model, tour the campus, meet current students, and eat lunch on our beautiful grounds. APDs will be offered Wednesday mornings between August and February, and sign-ups will open in the Fall.

How can my school class visit Jesuit High School and learn more about the admissions process?

Middle schools may bring an entire class of 8th-grade students to an Admissions Preview Day, held for a half-day on most Wednesdays in the fall and winter, to experience campus life, academics, and community, or families can choose a date that works best for them by contacting Jesuit. The Admissions team will also be visiting many of our parochial and area private middle schools in early fall to visit with students and answer questions.

What are the admissions criteria at Jesuit High School?

Jesuit High School seeks students who demonstrate strong academic readiness and alignment with its Jesuit mission and values. The admissions process places an emphasis on mission fit, including a student’s commitment to academic excellence, personal growth, leadership, and service—hallmarks of a Jesuit Catholic college-preparatory education.

Does applying for financial aid affect admission decisions?

No. Jesuit High School follows a fair and equitable admissions process. Applying for financial aid does not change a student’s opportunity to be considered for admission. These two steps are handled separately and confidentially.

Admissions – Transfers FAQs

Will Jesuit High School accept transfer students?

Yes. Jesuit High School warmly welcomes transfer students applying to 10th and 11th grade, and looks forward to helping each student feel supported, connected, and ready to thrive from day one.

Is there a transfer admissions process for 10th and 11th grade at Jesuit High School?

Yes. Jesuit High School offers a dedicated transfer admissions process for 10th grade (sophomore) and 11th grade (junior) applicants for both the Girls Division and the Boys Division. The process aligns with Jesuit’s private Catholic college preparatory admissions standards and includes review of prior high school transcripts, academic performance, and mission fit. Our Admissions team is available to help you navigate the process and answer questions each step of the way.

Are there admissions events for transfer students at Jesuit High School?

Yes. Transfer students, both girls and boys, are encouraged and welcome to attend Open House, schedule a one-on-one tour, and attend Admissions Preview Days (APDs), campus visits, plus additional transfer-specific events to experience Jesuit High School firsthand. These events provide opportunities to meet faculty, explore academics and athletics, and learn about student life in a Jesuit, co-divisional college preparatory environment.

Is financial aid available for transfer students at Jesuit High School?

Yes. Financial aid is available to transfer students applying to 10th and 11th grade. Jesuit High School is committed to making a Catholic, college-preparatory education accessible and welcomes all families to apply for need-based tuition assistance. Transfer families can complete a confidential financial aid application at the same time as their admissions application. Each process is reviewed independently and does not impact the other.

How are transfer students welcomed and oriented at Jesuit High School?

Transfer students are warmly welcomed into the Jesuit High School community through a structured orientation program designed to support a smooth and confident transition. Students receive guidance on academic scheduling, campus life, student resources, and extracurricular opportunities, while also having opportunities to connect with peers and faculty. From the start, Jesuit is committed to helping transfer students feel supported, included, and at home as they begin their journey.

Academics FAQs

Will classes be coed or single-sex?

Jesuit High School follows a co-divisional model that combines the strengths of single-sex and coed (combined) education.

• Freshman, sophomore, and junior core academic classes are single-sex, supporting focused learning environments
• Some junior-level, AP, and elective courses may be combined when enrollment or student interest does not support separate divisional sections
• Senior year classes are intentionally all combined (boys & girls), preparing students for college and beyond

All students will have equal access to advanced and AP courses, and students with earlier placement in AP or higher-level coursework may have the opportunity to join combined classes at an upper grade level. These academically-driven placements will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to ensure the best fit and continued academic growth for the student.

Outside of the classroom, what are some of the offerings that will remain single-sex?

• Kairos and small-group retreats
• Physical Education classes

Will there be opportunities for learning together?

As preparation for life after high school, a key component is coming together as a student progresses for some electives or advanced coursework, especially during the senior year in combined classrooms.  Additionally, there are opportunities to learn together in many of the performing arts programs, student-led clubs, academic clubs, and more.

Outside the classroom, during flex periods, passing periods, lunch, and before/after school, students connect in a fully coed community.

Will the curriculum change at Jesuit High School?

Jesuit High School’s rigorous, college preparatory curriculum will remain consistent, rooted in its Jesuit educational philosophy and academic excellence.

The curriculum will continue to offer challenging coursework, honors and advanced pathways, and a strong foundation across core subjects. Thoughtful updates may be made to ensure the curriculum remains inclusive, relevant, and responsive to all students, while preserving the high academic standards that define a Jesuit education.

Will freshmen in the Girls Division have access to honors or advanced (XL) classes at Jesuit High School?

Yes—absolutely. The Girls Division and Boys Division will offer the same course offerings for freshmen, including Honors and XL (advanced) courses.

All freshman students have access to leveled academic pathways in key subject areas, including: 

• English (e.g., English 1 and English 1 XL)    
• Mathematics (e.g., Algebra 1 through higher-level courses such as Algebra 2 Honors)    
• Science (Biology XL)     
• World Language  (Spanish XL)

Jesuit High School is committed to providing equitable academic opportunities for all students, ensuring that both girls and boys can pursue rigorous, college preparatory coursework from their first year.

Will additional faculty be hired?

As enrollment grows, Jesuit High School will add faculty and staff to support new programs and maintain small class sizes and strong student support.
This planned growth ensures that all students continue to benefit from personalized instruction, rigorous academics, and the high-quality learning environment that defines a Jesuit, college preparatory education.

Arts FAQs

What arts classes are available for girls at Jesuit High School?

Jesuit High School offers a comprehensive Visual & Performing Arts (VPA) program open to both girls and boys, ensuring all students have equal access to a wide range of creative opportunities.

Courses include studio art, film, digital media, music, and theater, all within a college preparatory curriculum designed to support every skill level—from introductory classes to advanced and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

For the 2027–2028 school year, Jesuit will continue to maintain and enhance its current arts offerings, while thoughtfully exploring new opportunities as student interest and facilities evolve. Students are encouraged to develop their creativity, technical skills, and artistic voice in a collaborative and supportive environment.

What are examples of co-curricular activities that will be combined–both boys and girls?

Performing arts, instrumental music (orchestra, jazz and band), marching band, competitive academic teams (mock trial, speech and debate, robotics, etc) and many student-led clubs will be combined.

Athletics FAQs

What will athletics look like?

Jesuit will offer athletic programs for boys’ and girls’ sports at multiple levels. Our 53-acre campus and a lighted stadium provide ample space for all teams to practice and compete.

Will Jesuit High School offer girls’ athletics?

Yes. Jesuit High School will offer a comprehensive girls’ athletics program aligned with CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) standards, supporting competitive and well-rounded student-athlete development.

The school is working to have its full lineup of experienced head coaches in place by Open House 2026, ensuring strong leadership and program development from the start

Which sports and levels will be offered at Jesuit High School Sacramento?

Jesuit High School currently offers 14 athletic programs for boys and will expand to include a full range of girls’ sports beginning in Fall 2027.

Building on its strong tradition of CIF-aligned athletics, Jesuit will offer multiple team levels (varsity, junior varsity, and developmental levels). Just as the school has always done for boys’ athletics, team levels for girls will be determined by student interest and tryouts, ensuring the best fit and competitive experience for each athlete.

The Athletic Department is committed to providing equivalent opportunities, coaching, facilities, and support for both boys and girls.

Planned girls’ sports offerings include:

• Fall Sports:
  • Cross Country
  • Flag Football
  • Golf
  • Tennis
  • Volleyball
  • Water Polo
• Winter Sports:
  • Basketball
  • Soccer
  • Wrestling
• Spring Sports:
  • Lacrosse
  • Softball
  • Swimming & Diving
  • Track & Field

Jesuit will also offer Competitive Cheer (CIF Traditional) and Sideline Cheer, with participation spanning multiple seasons.

With a 53-acre campus and lighted stadium, Jesuit provides ample space for practices and competition, ensuring a robust, equitable, and high-quality athletic experience for all student-athletes.

Will Jesuit High School have enough athletic facilities for all sports programs?

Yes. Jesuit High School has more than 52 acres of campus, providing ample space to support a full range of athletic programs for both boys and girls.

Facility planning is already underway, including training spaces and a dedicated girls’ locker room, with additional long-term improvements—such as fields and gym space—being evaluated through a phased approach.

By maximizing its existing facilities, including multiple practice fields and competition spaces, and using efficient scheduling, Jesuit will ensure all teams have access to high-quality practice environments and excellent facility support.

Will Jesuit offer girls’ sports when the co-divisional model begins in Fall 2027?

Yes. Jesuit High School is committed to offering the full range of athletic opportunities for all students beginning in Fall 2027. Our Athletic Department is prepared to ensure facilities needs, coaches, equipment, and administrative support will be ready for girls to have access to a robust, equitable athletic experience.

Are the number of girls sports offered contingent on the number of girls who attend in the fall of 2027?

Yes. Some programs may begin with only a frosh or junior varsity team, and some programs will offer both junior varsity and varsity based on student interest. Girls’ sports programs will be introduced in alignment with California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) guidelines. The goal is to offer an equal number of sports and team levels for girls and boys over time, with competitive opportunities at the highest levels.

Has Jesuit hosted girls’ sports before?

Yes. Jesuit has a long history of hosting competitive girls’ teams’ practices and contests in:

• Cross Country
• Track & Field
• Swim & Dive
• Water Polo

Since joining the Sierra Foothill League (SFL), Jesuit has also hosted girls:

• Flag Football
• Basketball

These experiences provide a strong foundation for expanding our girls’ Marauder athletic offerings.

What California Interscholastic Federation San Joaquin Section (CIF SJS) league will Jesuit’s girls’ teams compete in?

For the 2027-28 school year we are working with the CIF SJS Office to determine league placement to not disrupt the current Sierra Foothill League (SFL) alignment which will be in the final year of the four year cycle for 2027-28 school year. The next realignment cycle will take effect for the 2028-29 school year and both our girls and boys teams will be placed in the same league at that time. 

What CIF SJS division will Jesuit’s teams compete in?

The CIF SJS has implemented a new plus one/minus one policy in regards to divisional placement for all team sports for playoffs. This means that when you are placed in a Division 1 league (like the SFL) you can only move down to division 2 no matter how small your enrollment is.

For CIF Regional and State play, division placement is based on competitive equity, not solely on school enrollment. This ensures that teams compete against others of similar performance levels, regardless of school size.[CIF]

Will girls’ teams compete at the same level as boys’ teams?

Yes. Jesuit is committed to competitive excellence for all student-athletes. Both boys’ and girls’ teams will compete at the highest levels within Jesuit’s designated CIF sections and divisions (Sac-Joaquin Section and Sierra Foothill League).

How will cheerleading be structured at Jesuit High School? Will it be part of athletics or student activities?

Jesuit plans to host Competitive Cheer and Sideline Cheer. Jesuit High School will offer two distinct cheer experiences, plus the Galley Crew’s Cheerleaders (“yell leaders”), each serving an important role in student life:

• Competitive Cheer will be part of the athletics program, aligned with CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) traditional competitive cheer, with opportunities for structured training, competition, and multi-season participation
• Sideline Cheer and Galley Crew’s yell leaders will continue as part of student activities, supporting school spirit, game-day energy, and Jesuit Sacramento’s longstanding traditions

The Galley Crew tradition of cheerleaders/yell leaders will remain a vibrant and visible part of the Jesuit community, helping to lead school spirit and foster connection across campus.

Together, these programs provide opportunities for students to participate in both competitive athletics and spirit leadership, contributing to a well-rounded, engaged student experience.

How can students and families stay informed about girls’ athletics at Jesuit?

We will continue to provide updates on the Co-Div section of the website, and also, when appropriate, through:

• The Jesuit Marauders Athletics website GoJesuit.com
• Open House and Admissions events
• Social media channels
• Parent/Student Newsletters

We encourage families to reach out to our Athletic Department with any questions or to express interest in specific sports.

Will Jesuit continue to share athletic facilities with St. Francis, such as the pool, football field, and track?

Yes! The shared use of facilities, including the pool, football field, and track, will continue as it has for many years, through at least the 2026–27 school year. Beyond that, future facility-sharing arrangements are still being discussed. Today and in the future, Jesuit remains committed to supporting St. Francis and our entire Catholic education community.

Campus Ministry FAQs

Will retreats and faith formation programs change?

No. Retreats and faith formation programs will not change. These experiences are a core part of the Jesuit Catholic student experience. All retreats, including Kairos, will remain single-sex, with equal, grade-level-specific opportunities for both the Boys and Girls Divisions.

Facilities and Campus FAQs

Will Jesuit be doubling in size?

No. Jesuit High School anticipates gradual enrollment growth as it expands to serve both boys and girls, with a long-term target capacity of approximately 1,100 students.

Is Jesuit planning to build new buildings or purchase land for the girls division to open in 2027?

No. Jesuit has no plans to add buildings or acquire land. Instead, we can comfortably accommodate the Co-Divisional model of education by remodeling or repurposing underutilized areas and spaces to ensure equal opportunities for all students and be ready to welcome all students to campus in fall 2027.

Will there be major construction leading up to the start of co-divisional?

No. The first phase of Jesuit’s co-divisional model will repurpose existing spaces in exciting ways to increase the overall number of classrooms, repurpose underutilized common gathering areas, improve infrastructure, and remodel interior spaces. 

Will facility renovations impact daily campus operations?

Jesuit High School is committed to minimizing disruption to daily campus life during upcoming facility renovations. Most Phase One renovations are inside and scheduled between February and April 2027, with careful planning to reduce any impact on the student experience. The most disruptive work will be scheduled during mid-semester and Easter breaks, as well as during afternoon and evening hours (beginning at 3:00 PM) whenever possible. All renovation activity will be proactively communicated to families, ensuring a smooth, well-managed campus environment.

How will the transition be managed?

Jesuit will follow a phased strategy to shape a future where innovation and tradition unite. Updates will be shared online at JesuitHighSchool.org/next and through direct communications with the community as they progress through:

• Transition: 2025 – 2026   Prepare campus and community
• Renew: 2026-2027   Align resources, redesign, and refresh existing environments
• Aspire: 2027 and beyond. Launch and grow the co-divisional model and facilities

Faculty and Staff FAQs

Will Jesuit High School need to double its teaching staff with the addition of the Girls Division?

No. Jesuit High School will not need to double its faculty. All full-time Jesuit teachers will teach both boys and girls, rather than being assigned to only one division. This integrated approach ensures a consistent, high-quality academic experience for all students within the same college preparatory curriculum. As enrollment grows, Jesuit will thoughtfully add faculty and staff to support new programs and maintain small class sizes and strong student support, but growth will be strategic, not duplicated.

Why is Jesuit High School hiring a Dean for the Girls Division before students are on campus?

Jesuit High School is committed to thoughtful planning and strong student support from day one. Hiring a Dean for the Girls Division in advance allows time to build relationships, systems, and a foundation of trust before students arrive.

The work of the Dean’s Office begins well before the school year—focusing on connection, preparation, and community building, which are essential to effectively supporting students throughout their high school experience.

Bringing this leadership role on early reflects Jesuit’s commitment to a welcoming, well-prepared, and mission-centered environment, ensuring the Dean’s Office is fully ready to support both girls and boys when the co-divisional model begins.

History FAQs

Why is Jesuit making this change?

This decision reflects a mission-driven evolution to serve more families while preserving Jesuit’s core identity, rooted in 500 years of Ignatian education. It allows Jesuit to educate both young men and women as “Men and Women for Others,” strengthening our community and ensuring the school’s long-term financial and enrollment sustainability. This change will position Jesuit to serve future generations with strength, integrity, and vision. 

How was the decision made?

As the governing body responsible for policy, financial oversight, and the strategic direction of the school, the Board of Trustees engaged in a discernment process guided by Jesuit values, and a comprehensive organizational review. The process included:

• Analysis of enrollment trends, tuition data, and financial Key Performance Indicators.
• Review of strategic frameworks and SWOT analyses from previous strategic planning done by the Board of Trustees
• Analysis of various financial models, cost-cutting measures, and alternative educational structures—many of which mirrored the comprehensive strategic planning conducted in 2021–2022
• Consideration of community interest  from Catholic families seeking a Jesuit (Ignatian) education for daughters
• Consultation with the Jesuits West Provincial 

Although the Board’s decision-making process was not public, it was guided by alignment with Jesuit’s mission and values, and a focus on ensuring the school’s long-term health and success.

Why was this change considered now in fall 2025?

Board actions focus on the organization’s future. They acted now to:

• Provide long-term financial sustainability
• Expand mission richness
• Firmly position Jesuit for the future

Did Jesuit make this decision without input from donors, alumni, and parent groups?

While the discernment process and the Board of Trustees’ final decision required confidential board-level discussions, Jesuit’s leadership carefully considered previous alumni, student, parent, and supporter perspectives gathered through surveys, studies, listening sessions, and informal conversations, along with demographic, socioeconomic, and community-interest analytics in our region.

Will the Board’s decision change?

The Board’s decision is final and is a testament to Jesuit Sacramento’s unwavering commitment to this direction. Jesuit is now focused on thoughtful implementation and on preparing to welcome young women for the 2027–2028 school year.

Who should I talk to if I have concerns?

We continue to welcome families to contact us directly to engage in an open and respectful conversation with the school through appropriate channels using the Chain of Care policies and guided by the 7 Principles of Constructive Dialogue. We are always here to listen and engage thoughtfully and intentionally with factual information in a productive manner that follows our shared values and cura personalis.

Student Life

Does Jesuit High School have a dress code?

Yes. Jesuit High School maintains a Dress Code & Personal Appearance Policy that reflects its values as a Catholic, college preparatory school. The dress code is outlined in the Student-Parent Handbook and is clearly communicated to families. It establishes standards that support a welcoming, respectful, and mission-centered learning environment, while helping to unify the student body and foster a sense of pride and belonging within the Jesuit High School community. With the addition of the Girls Division, the dress code will include thoughtful adjustments to provide flexibility for both girls and boys, while remaining grounded in Jesuit’s current expectations and standards.

What are examples of co-curricular activities that will be combined–both boys and girls?

Performing arts, instrumental music (orchestra, jazz and band), marching band, competitive academic teams (mock trial, speech and debate, robotics, etc) and many student-led clubs will be combined.

Will cheerleading and the Galley Crew leaders be part of athletics or student activities?

The Galley Crew tradition of cheerleaders (“yell leaders”) will remain a vibrant and visible part of the Jesuit High School community, helping to lead school spirit and foster connection across campus. 

Additionally, Jesuit plans to host Competitive Cheer and Sideline Cheer.

All will serve an important role in student life:

• Competitive Cheer will be part of the athletics program, aligned with CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) traditional competitive cheer, with opportunities for structured training, competition, and multi-season participation
• Sideline Cheer and Galley Crew’s cheerleaders/yell leaders will continue as part of student activities, supporting school spirit, game-day energy, and Jesuit Sacramento’s longstanding traditions

Together, these programs provide opportunities for students to participate in both competitive athletics and spirit leadership, contributing to a well-rounded, engaged student experience.

last updated 06.17.2026