DeSales is a self-sufficient Archdiocesan-sponsored Catholic high school for boys, serving families in and around the Louisville area.
DeSales is a learning community made up of its students and their families; its faculty, staff and administration; its alumni; and, community supporters.
The mission of St. Francis DeSales High School is to provide each student a unique learning experience that daily recognizes his God-given dignity; promotes his spiritual, academic and personal growth; guides him to more fully live a Christian values-based life; challenges him to achieve high standards in pursuit of ever higher goals; and instills confidence in his ability to successfully face the future.
The DeSales learning community seeks to nurture the unique talents and abilities of its members by providing a variety of learning experiences both in and out of the classroom.
It sets standards in all areas and holds each member accountable for meeting these standards.
It continues to be an educational leader by encouraging and promoting best practice and by proactively addressing the ever-changing needs of the community.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked KY School
- Grades: 9-12
- Enrollment: 350 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
De Sales High School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Kentucky for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
Sports offered
Extracurriculars
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 9-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Most
Year Founded
1956
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
350 students
Student Body Type
% Students of Color
19%
State avg.: 12%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
33 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
11:1
National avg.: 13:1
List of Courses Offered
Average ACT score
23
(Out of 36)
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Khaki pants, tie, dress shirt, polo shirt
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Admissions Director
Justin Lewis
Sports
Total Sports Offered
15 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
14 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Academic Team, Ambassadors Club, CABO, Chemistry Club, Chess Club, Environmental Club, Key Club, KUNA, Math Team, National Honor Society, Peer Leaders, Student Government, Technology Leaders, Yearbook Club
Academic Team, Ambassadors Club, CABO, Chemistry Club, Chess Club, Environmental Club, Key Club, KUNA, Math Team, National Honor Society, Peer Leaders, Student Government, Technology Leaders, Yearbook Club
School Notes
- DeSales is a self-sufficient Archdiocesan-sponsored Catholic high school for boys, serving families in and around the Louisville area. DeSales is a learning community made up of its students and their families; its faculty, staff and administration; its alumni; and, community supporters. The mission of St. Francis DeSales High School is to provide each student a unique learning experience that daily recognizes his God-given dignity; promotes his spiritual, academic and personal growth; guides him to more fully live a Christian values-based life; challenges him to achieve high standards in pursuit of ever higher goals; and instills confidence in his ability to successfully face the future. The DeSales learning community seeks to nurture the unique talents and abilities of its members by providing a variety of learning experiences both in and out of the classroom. It sets standards in all areas and holds each member accountable for meeting these standards. It continues to be an educational leader by encouraging and promoting best practice and by proactively addressing the ever-changing needs of the community.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What schools are De Sales High School often compared to?
De Sales High School is often viewed alongside schools like Trinity High School, St. Xavier High School by visitors of our site.
What sports does De Sales High School offer?
De Sales High School offers 15 interscholastic sports: Archery, Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cross Country, Diving, Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball and Wrestling. De Sales High School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Kentucky for most sports offered.
What is De Sales High School's ranking?
De Sales High School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Kentucky for: Largest student body, Most sports offered and Most extracurriculars offered.
When is the application deadline for De Sales High School?
The application deadline for De Sales High School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is De Sales High School located?
De Sales High School is located in the Southside neighborhood of Louisville, KY.
School Reviews
5 7/19/2017
I had an excellent experience at DeSales. I was academically and socially prepared for college and still use the life lessons I learned in high school today. A wonderful school and community.
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