A Notre Dame Education is more than just academics; it’s a holistic approach that nurtures intellectual growth, faith formation, and real-world preparedness. Rooted in Catholic values, students are empowered to excel academically while developing moral character, leadership skills, and a strong sense of service.
Academic Excellence: Meeting and Exceeding NYS Diploma Requirements
Students at Notre Dame receive a rigorous academic experience that aligns with the New York State (NYS) diploma requirements, ensuring they graduate with the skills and knowledge necessary for success. These requirements include:
All students are required to carry a minimum of 6 credits per a year and must successfully complete 26 credits (versus NYS' 22) to earn a Notre Dame High School Diploma. Notre Dame students complete at least one religious studies course per year and are required to complete at least three credits of world language.
Faith-Based Learning and Religious Studies
A Notre Dame Education is rooted in Catholic teachings. Students participate in religious studies courses including Catholic Citizenship, The Bible, World Religions, Catholic Social Teaching, and LEAD in Faith. This curriculum helps students develop a strong moral compass, guiding them in making ethical decisions throughout their lives.
Christian Service and Community Engagement
Faith in action is a key component of the Notre Dame education. Students are encouraged to live out their beliefs through Christian service projects, volunteering in their communities, and participating in mission-driven activities. These experiences foster empathy, social responsibility, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Class Retreats: A Time for Reflection and Growth
All Notre Dame students participate in spiritual retreats that provide an opportunity for self-reflection, personal growth, and deepening of their faith. These retreats help students strengthen their relationship with God and build strong bonds with their peers in a supportive, faith-filled environment.
Real-World Life Skills for Future Success
Beyond academics and faith formation, a Notre Dame education includes essential real-world life skills such as:
Why Choose a Notre Dame Education?
A Notre Dame Education prepares students not only for academic success but also for a life of faith, service, and leadership. By combining strong academics, faith-based learning, service opportunities, retreats, and essential life skills, Notre Dame cultivates well-rounded individuals ready to make a difference in the world.
Whether pursuing higher education, entering the workforce, or engaging in service-based careers, Notre Dame graduates leave with the confidence, knowledge, and moral foundation to navigate life’s challenges with faith and purpose.
Academic Excellence: Meeting and Exceeding NYS Diploma Requirements
Students at Notre Dame receive a rigorous academic experience that aligns with the New York State (NYS) diploma requirements, ensuring they graduate with the skills and knowledge necessary for success. These requirements include:
- English (4 Credits)
- Mathematics (3 Credits)
- Science (3 Credits)
- Social Studies (4 Credits)
- World Languages (1 Credit)
- Health (0.5 Credit)
- Arts (1 Credit)
- Physical Education (2 Credits)
- Electives (3.5 Credits)
- Completion of Regents Exams in English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and one additional subject
All students are required to carry a minimum of 6 credits per a year and must successfully complete 26 credits (versus NYS' 22) to earn a Notre Dame High School Diploma. Notre Dame students complete at least one religious studies course per year and are required to complete at least three credits of world language.
Faith-Based Learning and Religious Studies
A Notre Dame Education is rooted in Catholic teachings. Students participate in religious studies courses including Catholic Citizenship, The Bible, World Religions, Catholic Social Teaching, and LEAD in Faith. This curriculum helps students develop a strong moral compass, guiding them in making ethical decisions throughout their lives.
Christian Service and Community Engagement
Faith in action is a key component of the Notre Dame education. Students are encouraged to live out their beliefs through Christian service projects, volunteering in their communities, and participating in mission-driven activities. These experiences foster empathy, social responsibility, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Class Retreats: A Time for Reflection and Growth
All Notre Dame students participate in spiritual retreats that provide an opportunity for self-reflection, personal growth, and deepening of their faith. These retreats help students strengthen their relationship with God and build strong bonds with their peers in a supportive, faith-filled environment.
Real-World Life Skills for Future Success
Beyond academics and faith formation, a Notre Dame education includes essential real-world life skills such as:
- Financial literacy – Budgeting, saving, and responsible money management
- Public speaking and communication – Developing confidence in expressing ideas effectively
- Leadership and teamwork – Preparing students to take on leadership roles in college and beyond
- Independent Living Skills – Including sewing, preparing taxes, changing a tire, and making a meal! Our seniors help us determine the curriculum for their final course- Senior Skills- so no one leaves saying, "I wish I learned that in high school!"
Why Choose a Notre Dame Education?
A Notre Dame Education prepares students not only for academic success but also for a life of faith, service, and leadership. By combining strong academics, faith-based learning, service opportunities, retreats, and essential life skills, Notre Dame cultivates well-rounded individuals ready to make a difference in the world.
Whether pursuing higher education, entering the workforce, or engaging in service-based careers, Notre Dame graduates leave with the confidence, knowledge, and moral foundation to navigate life’s challenges with faith and purpose.
