Parent Testimonials

When we first learned our former school had closed our family was devasted.  Joining a new school at the start of 6^th grade during a pandemic is NOT EASY.  But several families, as well as the Archdiocese, mentioned to our family that Notre Dame Academy was the best option for our son, and they were right!  From the moment we called the school for a tour we saw the passion, energy and pride Notre Dame offered.   My son smiled during the tour and before we left, he knew it was the school for him and so did we.  We registered our son and it was the best decision we could have made. 

Our son is thriving.  Notre Dame Academy teaches the whole student.  It provides a family atmosphere where it educates, the body, mind, and soul.   Our son has been very engaged with his ‘’new” NDA family and he is both academically stimulated and challenged every day.  The Academy offers a plethora of after school clubs and activities and does not subscribe to a one size fits all atmosphere but rather recognizes the diversity in all children.  The communication with the Administration has been organized and transparent and the faculty is caring and supportive. 

As the saying goes, when God closes one door, he opens a window.  Notre Dame Academy has been our window to a beautiful educational journey where the Administration and staff are fully committed, and we know our son will be well prepared for his future.     

-Melissa Schnipp, Mother of Antonello '23
 

"When I was first looking at schools in 2008... I visited many!  Notre Dame was the only place I felt at home and felt they cared about my child.  There was an open door policy and most importantly, the values of the school appealed to me.  I believe in a diverse community, acceptance, kindness, and loving environment. Through the years, Notre Dame has ALWAYS had my child’s best interest.  They put children first!  Great education and always going the extra step to help any child that may be struggling.  

I guess what makes me feel love for this school is the love my children have for the school.  My oldest just graduated last year and she was well prepared for high school.  She is doing extremely well and has already made a ton of friends. She was prepared educationally, spiritually and socially.  Her last year at Norte Dame was very emotional as she would be leaving her second home.  She grew up with the Notre Dame family.  They always supported her and guided her in the right direction.  During her last week she was a mess knowing she would be leaving a school she loved and some of the best teachers.  To my surprise she wrote cards to each teacher she had during her 11 years at Notre Dame Academy.  She wanted them to know how they each affected her life and made her the person she is today.

The princpial Mr. Valvano is a wonderful human being.  He understands children and is very compassionate with all families. He goes above and beyond to make sure his Notre Dame Family feels at home and is always willing to listen. He is always making sure that his students are where they need to be in order to have a bright future, at the same time instilling valuable virtues.   

Bottom line WE LOVE NOTRE DAME and feel very fortunate to be part of this family! "
-Peggy Flynn, Mother of McKenzie '19 & Kaila '22

"Our mission as parents was to find a school community supporting academics and developing hobbies and talents through arts and activities in small classroom setting. My Christian faith being challenged by the stresses of life, steered us to a Christian based school. Finding an academic environment that provided the activities to develop as a well-rounded individual, our choices were dime a dozen. With time, I realized that the most important thing I could give my kids was not only to be challenged academically and extra-circularly, but to be surrounded by kindness. Notre Dame stood out in the crowd as it provides a support system to its faculty, parents and kids to learn, grow, share and care in a Peace based community thriving on open communication and use of all resources available. The Administration and HSA both work tirelessly to exceed the needs, shoot for the wants, and provide a sense that there are no limits on where they can go for the kids and parents, year after year. We are proud to have an alumnus (who returns every few weeks as a sophomore in high school to “visit” ND) and a current 7^th grader. Both my kids (who couldn’t be more unalike academically or in personality) have flourished as they have Walked, Talked and Lived in the Peace of Christ."
- Lynn Sheridan-Davis, Mother of Olivia '18 & Fiona '21
 

"Change is an inevitable part of life, and so it is for our family. An unexpected job opportunity is taking us to Connecticut. For this reason, Anthony won't be returning to Notre Dame next school year. 

That said, we wanted to express how grateful we are for Anthony's time at Notre Dame. The positive impact that you and your staff have had on him cannot be overstated. In a very short time, we've watched the boy we love so much grow as both a student and a person. He's more confident, thoughtful, and focused. Indeed, the most difficult part of moving is knowing that Anthony won't be in the nurturing atmosphere at Notre Dame. Thanks for all you do."

Jim & Chung Foster