History

Welcoming All — Building Foundations For A Lifetime Of Fulfillment.

In September 1988, the Order of Union-Chrétienne de Saint Chaumond sent a small group of Sisters from France to California; with the mission of opening a school in America. Although these Sisters taught in France, they needed time to comprehend the Californian Education system – as well as the vastly contrasting culture.

Over the following fifteen years, teaching high school in Southern California, the Sisters were afforded the opportunity to become experts in both! During this time, the Sisters spent years looking and praying for the perfect school site. When finally, in March 2003, their prayers were answered. Sister Agnes Clisson and Sister Anne Perrin traveled to San Diego to meet with the Pastor of St. Therese of Carmel, Father Nicholas Dempsey, about opening a private Catholic school on the grounds of St. Therese of Carmel Parish. Father Nick had been hoping to add a school to the Parish so he was thrilled with the Sisters’ proposal. Two years later, in the Fall of 2005, Notre Dame Academy was opened, soon becoming one of the most respected Carmel Valley Schools. 

The Academy commenced at its temporary location at University of San Diego High School for grades K-8 while construction was completed on the St. Therese grounds. There were 82 students enrolled. In January of 2006, Sr. Marie Pascale (NDA's current Principal/President), joined Sister Gabriel Marie and Sister Marie Carmen, as the school opened at its current and permanent location. In 2016 Sister Angelique Therese joined NDA to help instruct the 300 plus students attending the Academy, from Preschool through 8th grade. Every year we proudly graduate approximately 50 8th grade students, who attend their top choice of high school.

Founded by the Sisters, and now under the governance of St. Therese of Carmel Parish, Notre Dame Academy continually provides its’ students with the necessary foundation to build a lifetime of fulfillment.