What makes Notre Dame Preparatory School stand out among Maryland’s all-girls Catholic high schools. How does NDP’s curriculum prepare young women for college and beyond. Why do parents choose Notre Dame Prep for their daughters’ education.
A Legacy of Excellence: Notre Dame Prep’s 135-Year History
Notre Dame Preparatory School, nestled on a picturesque 30-acre campus in Towson, Maryland, boasts a rich history dating back to 1873. As the oldest Catholic college preparatory school for young women in the state, NDP has consistently demonstrated its commitment to empowering girls through faith and intellect for over 135 years.
How has Notre Dame Prep maintained its relevance in modern education. Despite its long-standing traditions, the school has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of students. NDP seamlessly blends its historical roots with cutting-edge educational practices, ensuring students receive a timeless yet contemporary education.
Key Features of Notre Dame Prep’s Modern Approach:
- Research-based writing seminars
- Innovative STEM and STREAM initiatives
- Intimate student-teacher ratio for personalized attention
- Wireless 1:1 laptop program for integrated technology learning
Rigorous College-Preparatory Curriculum: Balancing Liberal Arts and STEM
Notre Dame Prep’s curriculum is carefully designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in college and beyond. The school’s approach balances a strong liberal arts foundation with rigorous STEM preparation, aligning perfectly with the demands of today’s competitive college landscape.
What core subjects form the backbone of NDP’s curriculum. Students at Notre Dame Prep are required to take courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and upper-level math, providing essential STEM building blocks. Simultaneously, they immerse themselves in English, history, world languages, visual arts, and performing arts, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience.
The INCubator Program: Interdisciplinary Learning at Its Finest
Notre Dame Prep’s innovative INCubator program takes interdisciplinary learning to new heights. This unique initiative integrates STEM and humanities into dynamic project-based units, encouraging students to think critically and creatively across subject boundaries.
How does the INCubator program work in practice. Students might analyze works of art through a mathematical lens, applying concepts of geometry and ratios. Alternatively, they could examine a novel through the chemistry of its dyes and pigments, bridging the gap between literature and science.
STEM and STREAM Focus: Preparing Young Women for the Future
Notre Dame Prep recognizes the importance of STEM education in today’s rapidly evolving world. The school goes above and beyond by offering a wide array of science, technology, engineering, and math electives, allowing students to explore their passions and develop crucial skills for the future.
Popular STEM Electives at Notre Dame Prep:
- Robotics
- Computer coding
- Environmental engineering
- Mobile app development
What sets Notre Dame Prep apart in STEM education. The school’s commitment to STREAM (STEM + Art) education demonstrates its understanding of the importance of integrating arts and design into traditional STEM fields. This approach fosters creativity and innovation alongside analytical rigor, preparing students for the multidisciplinary challenges of the modern world.
STREAM Courses at Notre Dame Prep:
- Music theory
- Studio art
- Graphic design
Fostering Creativity: Award-Winning Arts Programs
Notre Dame Prep’s commitment to the arts is evident in its diverse and robust performing and visual arts programs. Students have numerous opportunities to explore and develop their artistic talents through a wide range of classes and extracurricular activities.
Arts Offerings at Notre Dame Prep:
- Studio art
- Digital photography
- Dance
- Drama
- Vocal music
- Instrumental music
How does Notre Dame Prep nurture advanced artistic talent. The school offers advanced ensembles such as the Honors Chorus and Jazz Band, allowing students to take their musicianship to sophisticated levels. Regular theater productions and musicals provide opportunities for budding thespians to shine, while professional-caliber exhibits showcase student artwork throughout the school.
Notre Dame Preparatory School’s commitment to artistic excellence is reflected in the numerous accolades its students receive. The school consistently earns distinction at regional and state fine arts festivals, with vocalists achieving “Superior” rankings for solo and group performances. Dancers from NDP have graced the stage at the American College Dance Association, while student artwork regularly earns recognition through the prestigious Scholastic Art Awards.
Empowering Through Athletics: Championship Sports Programs
Notre Dame Prep believes in the power of athletics to challenge and empower young women. The school’s comprehensive sports program offers a wide selection of JV and Varsity teams across three seasons, providing students with ample opportunities to participate in competitive sports.
Popular Sports at Notre Dame Prep:
- Field hockey
- Soccer
- Cross country
- Tennis
- Lacrosse
- Softball
What makes Notre Dame Prep’s athletics program stand out. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, expert coaching, and a strong sense of Blazer spirit that propels teams to championships year after year. However, the benefits of participating in sports at NDP extend far beyond trophies and accolades.
How does athletics contribute to students’ personal growth. Participation in sports teaches valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, work ethic, leadership, and grace under pressure. Athletes at Notre Dame Prep gain confidence and forge sisterhood bonds that last a lifetime, becoming forces to be reckoned with both on and off the field.
Nurturing Faith and Service: Community Outreach Initiatives
Faith and service are intrinsically woven into the fabric of life at Notre Dame Prep. The school’s commitment to these values is reflected in its various spiritual and community outreach programs, which aim to nurture students’ faith while fostering a sense of social responsibility.
Key Elements of NDP’s Faith and Service Program:
- Regular retreats and prayer groups
- Social justice education
- Mandatory community service hours
- Sister-to-Sister mentorship program
How does Notre Dame Prep integrate faith and service into students’ lives. The school provides numerous opportunities for students to come together through retreats and prayer groups, deepening their spiritual understanding and fostering a sense of community. Additionally, NDP places a strong emphasis on social justice education, helping students develop a more profound understanding of societal issues and their role in creating positive change.
What is the impact of Notre Dame Prep’s community service requirement. Each student at NDP is required to complete a certain number of community service hours. This requirement not only benefits the local community but also helps students build empathy, develop a sense of social responsibility, and create meaningful change in the world around them.
Preparing Young Women for Success: Notre Dame Prep’s Unique Approach
Notre Dame Preparatory School’s comprehensive approach to education sets it apart as a premier institution for young women in Maryland. By combining rigorous academics, strong STEM and arts programs, championship athletics, and a commitment to faith and service, NDP provides a truly unique high school experience.
Key Factors Contributing to Notre Dame Prep’s Success:
- Balanced curriculum integrating liberal arts and STEM
- Innovative programs like INCubator and STREAM initiatives
- Award-winning arts and athletics programs
- Emphasis on faith, service, and personal growth
- Supportive, all-girls environment fostering confidence and leadership
How does Notre Dame Prep prepare students for college and beyond. The school’s rigorous academic program, coupled with its focus on developing well-rounded individuals, ensures that graduates are fully prepared for the challenges of higher education and future careers. NDP alumnae consistently report feeling more confident, capable, and prepared for college life compared to their peers from other high schools.
Why do parents choose Notre Dame Prep for their daughters. Parents recognize the unique value proposition offered by Notre Dame Preparatory School. The combination of academic excellence, personal growth opportunities, and a supportive all-girls environment makes NDP an attractive choice for families seeking a high-quality Catholic education for their daughters.
In conclusion, Notre Dame Preparatory School stands out as a beacon of excellence in girls’ education in Maryland. With its rich history, innovative curriculum, and commitment to nurturing the whole person, NDP continues to empower young women to reach their full potential and become leaders in their chosen fields.
As a parent, few decisions feel more monumental than choosing the right high school for your daughter. You want an environment that will nurture her growth into a confident, capable young woman ready to take on the world. A place where her unique talents and interests can thrive, where she’ll be challenged academically while feeling supported every step of the way. Most of all, you want a school that will help shape the person she dreams of becoming.
If this sounds familiar, you owe it to yourself—and your daughter—to take a close look at Notre Dame Preparatory School. Located on a beautiful 30-acre campus in the heart of Towson, Maryland, “Notre Dame Prep” offers a one-of-a-kind high school experience tailored to help girls reach their full potential.
Over 135 Years of Academic Excellence
Notre Dame Prep first opened its doors in 1873, making it the oldest Catholic college preparatory school for young women in the state. Over the past century and a half, generations of students have walked its tree-lined paths and graced its classrooms. Such longevity speaks volumes about NDP’s unwavering commitment to empowering young women through faith and intellect.
But don’t mistake “tradition” for “stuck in the past.” While honoring its rich history, Notre Dame Prep has continually evolved to stay on the cutting edge. Rigorous academics lay the foundation, from research-based writing seminars to innovative STEM and STREAM initiatives. An intimate student-teacher ratio enables personalized attention. And a wireless 1:1 laptop program integrates technology into daily learning.
Challenging College-Prep Curriculum
Notre Dame Prep’s curriculum balances a liberal arts foundation with rigorous STEM preparation, aligning with today’s competitive college landscape. Required courses like biology, chemistry, physics, and upper-level math provide essential STEM building blocks. At the same time, students immerse themselves in English, history, world languages, visual arts, and performing arts.
The school’s INCubator program takes interdisciplinary learning to the next level, integrating STEM and humanities into dynamic project-based units. Students might analyze works of art through a mathematical lens, using geometry and ratios, or examine a novel through the chemistry of its dyes and pigments.
STEM and STREAM Focus
In addition to infusing STEM across the curriculum, Notre Dame Prep offers multiple stand-alone science, technology, engineering, and math electives. Courses range from forensic chemistry to engineering design, enabling students to explore passions like:
- Robotics
- Computer coding
- Environmental engineering
- Mobile app development
Notre Dame Prep also embraces the importance of integrating arts and design into STEM education, reflected in its designation as a STREAM (STEM + Art) school. Music theory, studio art, graphic design, and more allow students to unlock their creativity in tandem with analytical rigor.
Award-Winning Arts Programs
The performing and visual arts thrive at Notre Dame Prep. Students channel their artistic voices through classes in studio art, digital photography, dance, drama, vocal music, and instrumental music. Advanced ensembles, like the Honors Chorus and Jazz Band, take musicianship to sophisticated levels. Theater productions and musicals grace the stage every year, while professional-caliber exhibits line the halls.
Proof lies in the accolades. Notre Dame Preparatory School consistently earns distinction at regional and state fine arts festivals. Vocalists achieve “Superior” rankings for solo and group performances. Dancers grace the stage at the American College Dance Association. Student artwork earns recognition through the Scholastic Art Awards.
Championship Athletics Program
Notre Dame Prep encourages young women to challenge and empower themselves through athletics. The school offers an impressive selection of JV and Varsity sports teams across three seasons. Standouts include field hockey, soccer, cross country, tennis, lacrosse, softball, and more. State-of-the-art facilities, expert coaching, and fierce Blazer spirit propel teams to championships year after year.
But the benefits run far deeper than trophies in a case. Sports teach teamwork, discipline, work ethic, leadership, and grace under pressure. Athletes gain confidence and forge sisterhood bonds to last a lifetime. At Notre Dame Prep, young women become forces to be reckoned with both on the field and off.
Service Learning and Community Outreach
Faith and service weave intrinsically through life at Notre Dame Prep. Students come together through retreats and prayer groups while gaining a more profound understanding of social justice. Each girl completes community service hours, which build empathy while creating meaningful change. Signature initiatives like the Sister-to-Sister mentorship program connect students with local Catholic middle schools to provide guidance and support.
By graduation, students evolve into thoughtful citizens empowered to improve their communities. The seeds planted through spiritual development and service learning blossom into a lifelong commitment to compassion in action.
Beautiful 30-Acre Campus
Picture stately Georgian-style buildings nestled amid rolling green hills and tranquil wooded areas. Historic, yet equipped with every modern amenity. This is the Notre Dame Prep campus, spanning over 30 breathtaking acres.
Academic buildings house light-filled classrooms, wireless laptop bars, fully equipped science labs, creative arts studios, and more. The Donnelly Library provides a hub for study and research. Athletic facilities include multiple playing fields, a Fitness and Wellness Center, and a 1,500-seat gymnasium.
The campus conveys a palpable sense of community from the moment you set foot on the meticulously groomed grounds. An environment designed to help students learn, grow, and thrive.
Strong Sense of Sisterhood
“Once a Blazer, always a Blazer.” At Notre Dame Prep, sisterhood transcends cliques and stereotypes. Students represent a mosaic of backgrounds, talents, and aspirations. Yet they stand united by bonds of friendship, support, and unconditional acceptance.
This spirit starts freshman year with the BONDS program, where older students mentor and guide new students. It runs through every class, sports team, club, and activity. And it extends far beyond graduation through a vast alumnae network. At NDP, your daughter gains sisters for life.
Diverse and Inclusive Student Body
Notre Dame Prep celebrates diversity in all its forms. Every student contributes a valuable perspective, enriching the fabric of the school. A vibrant International Buddy Program pairs domestic students with those from abroad. Multicultural events highlight the school’s global community. And financial assistance helps make an NDP education accessible to qualified girls from all walks of life.
At the end of the day, labels fall away. Students appreciate each other’s differences while connecting through shared experiences. This ability to see the world through multiple lenses better prepares them to thrive beyond NDP.
Passionate and Dedicated Faculty
Behind Notre Dame Prep’s success stand the teachers and staff who make magic happen daily. Passionate about educating young women, they help each girl stretch beyond self-imposed limitations. NDP faculty act as mentors and role models, displaying warmth and care while demanding academic rigor.
With an average 10:1 student-teacher ratio, teachers devote focused attention on each learner’s needs. And they never hesitate to provide extra help before or after school. The support continues through a formal advisory program, with advisors meeting regularly with students to guide academic, social, and personal growth.
College Counseling and Career Guidance
From freshman year onward, Notre Dame Prep’s experienced college counseling department works one-on-one with students on target school selection, testing strategies, essay writing, and every step of the application and financial aid processes. They help each girl match her interests and strengths with schools where she can thrive and make her mark.
College counseling aligns with NDP’s signature Horizons program. Horizons provides self-assessment tools and experiential opportunities to help students identify their true passions. Girls graduate understanding who they are and the change they want to create in the world.
Alumnae Network and Lifelong Bonds
After four transformative years at Notre Dame Prep, your daughter will join a sisterhood of over 5,000 strong alumnae. This invaluable network provides mentoring, internships, career connections, and friendships to buoy graduates throughout their lives. NDP alumnae hold their heads high, empowered by the skills and confidence gained during their formative high school years.
Notre Dame Prep understands how precious these adolescent years are for developing character and self-discovery. It provides the community that allows young women to spread their wings and take flight.
As we dive deeper into the Notre Dame Prep experience, one aspect rises to the top: the school’s uncompromising college-prep curriculum. NDP sets the bar high, immersing students in rigorous coursework designed to equip them for competitive colleges. It’s a launching pad for young women ready to take their academics to the highest levels.
Challenging College-Prep Curriculum
Walk the halls of Notre Dame Prep and you’ll find girls tackling advanced classes across diverse subjects. AP and Honors options challenge students to think critically and push intellectual boundaries. Inquiry-based learning encourages girls to formulate thoughtful questions and use resources to find answers.
Let’s peel back the layers of NDP’s multifaceted curriculum. At its core, a liberal arts foundation grounded in English, math, history, world languages, sciences, and the arts establishes a well-rounded baseline. From there, the course catalog expands into diverse electives and cutting-edge programs.
Girls seeking to delve deeper into STEM fields can choose from computer coding, engineering, robotics, and high-level math and science. Budding artists and designers immerse themselves in studio art, graphic design, dance, and more. Those drawn to humanities and social sciences find advanced seminars in writing, philosophy, psychology, and women’s studies.
This varied curriculum mirrors the expanding landscape of college majors and careers. By sampling different disciplines, students identify true passions while gaining skills for whatever path they follow.
INCubator: Integrated STEM/Humanities
The unique INCubator program synthesizes Notre Dame Prep’s liberal arts and STEM curricula into integrated units. Students analyze topics through dual lenses, unlocking new perspectives. A math and social sciences unit might examine historical events through statistical analysis. In an INCubator blending chemistry and literature, students could investigate chemical processes described by Mary Shelley in Frankenstein.
INCubator’s interdisciplinary approach reflects today’s interconnected world, where diverse expertise converges to find solutions. Students learn to make connections between seemingly disparate fields, preparing them to thrive in college and beyond.
Research and Writing Intensive
Strong writing skills provide a foundation for academic success, and NDP ensures students gain expertise. Freshmen take an Introduction to Research seminar, forming hypotheses, synthesizing sources, and crafting arguments. A writing-intensive focus continues across the curriculum, with science labs, essays, and research papers.
The senior capstone project represents the culmination of these abilities. Each girl works with a faculty mentor to conduct in-depth research on a topic of personal interest. Bringing together writing, analysis, and public speaking skills, the capstone allows students to demonstrate—and have confidence in—their readiness for college-level work.
Languages: Expression Across Cultures
Proficiency in world languages broadens perspective and opens doors. Notre Dame Prep ensures students gain fluency not only in reading and writing but conversational expression. Options include French, Spanish, Latin, and Mandarin Chinese taught at beginner through AP levels.
Language clubs like La Junta and Le Cercle Français provide immersive enhancement through films, field trips, and activities. And exchange programs take cultural connection global, with travel opportunities to China, France, and Spain.
Through languages, students at Notre Dame Prep learn to communicate across cultures. An invaluable skill set for 21st century global citizens.
Notre Dame Prep’s challenging academics provide the best preparation for college success. But even more, they teach students how to think: to question, analyze, create, and make change. These lifelong skills empower NDP graduates to keep reaching higher throughout their lives.
STEM and STREAM Focus
Hey friends, have you heard about Notre Dame Preparatory School? Located in Towson, Maryland, this all-girls Catholic high school has a stellar reputation for empowering young women through academics, arts, and athletics. But what really makes NDP stand out is its focus on STEM and STREAM education. Let’s take a closer look at why this just might be the best all-girls Catholic high school in Maryland.
First off, NDP offers an incredible STEM program, with numerous Advanced Placement and honors courses in math, science, and technology. From AP Physics to Genetics Honors, girls are challenged to excel in typically male-dominated fields. The teachers really encourage critical thinking and hands-on learning too. In chemistry, for example, students get to do cool experiments like build molecular models. And in engineering classes, they design solutions to real-world problems. How’s that for applied learning?
But NDP takes STEM one step further with STREAM – incorporating religion, arts, and mathematics. This interdisciplinary approach allows young women to explore the connections between science and faith, technology and creative expression. Students examine how fields like bioethics and sacred geometry intersect. They program video games and code dances. The blending of arts and STEM creates a well-rounded, engaging education.
Additionally, NDP offers awesome STEM electives you won’t find at every high school. There are courses in app development, aerospace engineering, and more. Girls even have the chance to conduct original research and compete in events like SeaPerch, where they build underwater robots! So in short, the STEM programming is super extensive and innovative here.
But that’s not all. NDP has awesome STEM-focused clubs and activities too. Robotics club, math league, Girls Who Code – you name it! After school, girls can expand their interests by building robots, entering hackathons, or visiting cool places like the National Cryptologic Museum. And get this: each year, students participate in a STEM Signing Day, announcing where they’ll pursue STEM studies after graduation. How cool is that?
NDP also hosts great STEM events like a Women in STEM Speaker Series. Female researchers, innovators, and professionals share their journeys and inspire girls to pursue STEM careers. Beyond that, partnerships with places like Johns Hopkins University connect students with mentors and internships. So NDP provides awesome exposure to real-world STEM work.
And we can’t forget to mention the state-of-the-art McCrindle Science and Robotics Center! This facility offers science labs galore, stocked with the latest technology and equipment. Girls have access to 3D printers, CNC machines, laser cutters – you name it! The specialized engineering lab even has a wind tunnel for aerodynamics experiments. Talk about hands-on learning!
For girls with a passion for STEM, NDP clearly provides unmatched opportunities. The rigorous courses, innovative electives, awesome activities, and facilities create an environment where young women are challenged to push boundaries in science and technology. We all know STEM fields are still male-dominated, so a school like NDP – focused on advancing girls – is truly special.
So in my book, Notre Dame Prep is absolutely a stand-out when it comes to empowering girls in STEM. Everything from the curriculum to the culture fosters confidence and excellence in these critical fields. And the focus on blending STEM and arts provides a cool, well-rounded experience you don’t find everywhere. For any girl looking to spread her wings in STEM, NDP is definitely worth considering!
Well folks, that’s my take on why Notre Dame Prep just might be the best Catholic all-girls high school in Maryland, especially for budding scientists and engineers. Let me know your thoughts in the comments! And if you have any other great schools to suggest, I’d love to hear about those too. I’m always looking to spotlight awesome programs empowering girls in STEM. But for now, NDP seems like an amazing choice. Alright friends, catch you next time!
Award-Winning Arts Programs
How’s it going folks? Today I want to highlight another stand-out feature of Notre Dame Prep School in Towson, Maryland – their incredible arts programs. For any young woman with creative passions, NDP fosters talent across the visual and performing arts. Let’s check out why their arts offerings make this a top contender for the best all-girls Catholic high school in Maryland.
First up, the visual arts curriculum here is fantastic. NDP offers a ton of studio art courses so girls can explore different mediums – think painting, sculpting, ceramics, and more. Students learn fundamental techniques but are also encouraged to develop their own creative style. And the teachers are professional artists themselves, which is a huge plus. I don’t know about you, but I loved having instructors who actively created art and exhibited their own work. It inspired me big time!
Another neat thing is NDP’s partnerships with places like the Baltimore Museum of Art. Students get to display their art publicly and gain real gallery experience. How awesome is that? Opportunities like these are exactly how young artists grow. And the school even brings in visiting artists for hands-on workshops. So in a nutshell, NDP provides tons of avenues for girls to thrive as visual artists.
Now on to the performing arts – this is where NDP really shines. The theatre program, for instance, is award-winning! We’re talking regional and state championships for their incredible productions. But even more impressive is how many girls get involved. Over a third of the student body participates in theatre here, either onstage or behind-the-scenes. That opportunity to discover passions and collaborate is so invaluable.
Plus, NDP’s dance program is first-rate. They offer diverse dance electives in styles from ballet to hip hop, taught in professional studios. And their Blazer Dance Company competes at national dance competitions, taking home major awards. For girls with dance talents, these programs help them refine technique and performance ability.
And we can’t forget NDP’s music program! Their orchestra, bands, and choirs have also earned tons of accolades. And they put on amazing concerts featuring everything from string quartets to a cappella groups. No matter your instrumental or vocal talents, you’ll find a way to shine here. They even have cool music tech electives using recording software and production equipment. Again, the variety is so impressive.
Beyond the coursework, NDP provides awesome arts enrichment too. There are poetry club, fashion club, dance company – so many ways to get involved! And here’s a fun fact: NDP partners with the Baltimore School for the Arts for mentorships and summer intensives. Who wouldn’t love chances like that? It’s all about expanding horizons.
The point is, NDP nurtures girls’ creative talents across the board. With stand-out programs in visual art, theatre, dance, and music, students gain real skills and experience. The variety, community, and performance opportunities let artistic passions flourish. For any girl looking to spread her creative wings, it’s an arts education like no other.
Alright friends, that’s the scoop on why NDP’s arts programs make this a contender for Maryland’s best Catholic all-girls high school. Let me know if your school has awesome arts offerings too! I’d love to learn about more great programs cultivating young women’s talents. But clearly NDP sets the bar high. Their award-winning theatre, dance, music, and visual arts give girls amazing opportunities to shine. Well, that’s all for now! Until next time, stay creative out there!
Championship Athletics Program
As an all-girls Catholic high school, Notre Dame Preparatory School in Towson, Maryland has a strong tradition of excellence both academically and athletically. Their championship athletics program offers top-tier facilities, coaching, and competition that allows students to thrive on the field, court, track, and more. With over 15 varsity sports, there are ample opportunities for students to get involved and challenge themselves athletically.
One standout aspect of NDP’s athletics is the state-of-the-art Kevin E. Schwab Athletic Center. This 56,000 square foot facility houses two full-sized gymnasiums, a strength and conditioning center, athletic training room, locker rooms, team meeting spaces, and more. Having access to premium facilities like these allows NDP’s student-athletes to train and compete at the highest level. The dedication to providing first-class athletic amenities demonstrates the school’s commitment to excellence in sports.
In addition to facilities, NDP attracts highly qualified coaches who bring out the best in the young women on each team. Coaches focus not only on developing athletic skills, but also character, teamwork, sportsmanship, and leadership. Many coaches have received accolades and recognition locally and nationally for their success leading programs. The knowledgeable coaching staff gives students the guidance they need to realize their athletic potential.
With about 80% of students participating in athletics, competition is both far-reaching and fierce. NDP teams compete in the Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland (IAAM) conference, facing other top-tier opponents. Over the years, their teams have captured IAAM championships, state titles, and national rankings across multiple sports like soccer, basketball, lacrosse, field hockey, cross country, swimming, and more. Competing against tough competition in the IAAM pushes athletes to elevate their game.
Beyond wins and titles, participating in NDP athletics teaches lessons that serve students long after graduation. Playing sports teaches discipline, hard work, teamwork, time management, and how to handle pressure. Athletes learn how to motivate themselves and each other to accomplish shared goals. These skills carry over to future endeavors in college, careers, and life.
One shining example of the championship culture at NDP is the dynastic lacrosse program. Under legendary coach Mary Bartel for over 30 years, the team has been utterly dominant at both the conference and state level. The team has captured an astounding 21 IAAM championships, including 7 straight from 2012-2018. They have also won 14 total state titles, including securing the 1A/2A championship from 2014-2022, a run unmatched in Maryland girls high school lacrosse history.
Individual players have also thrived under Coach Bartel’s tutelage, going on to play at the collegiate level for NCAA Division I and Division III programs. Her coaching tree has spread far and wide, with many former players coming back to coach youth leagues and inspire the next generation. While Coach Bartel retired after the 2022 season, the winning culture and legacy she built ensures continued success for the program.
Beyond just wins and losses, NDP athletics contributes to a supportive school environment that brings students together. Cheering on classmates on the field or court helps build community and gives students a sense of belonging. Seeing fellow students strive to accomplish goals through discipline and teamwork provides motivation in the classroom as well. The shared experiences of practices, competitions, and other athletic traditions give students lifelong memories and friendships.
For young women seeking more than just academics from their high school experience, NDP’s championship-caliber athletics should be a major draw. The state-of-the-art facilities, expert coaching, elite competition, and emphasis on character and teamwork provide one-of-a-kind opportunities for growth. Athletics are a key part of the NDP experience that push students to excel in sports and in life.
Service Learning and Community Outreach
Notre Dame Preparatory School in Towson, Maryland aims to develop students into compassionate leaders committed to service and social justice. Their service learning and community outreach programs provide impactful opportunities for students to engage with local, national, and global communities in need.
Service learning is integrated directly into the curriculum at NDP. Many courses have projects that incorporate volunteering, civic engagement, and reflection on larger social issues. For example, Spanish students might volunteer to tutor local immigrant families in English. Religion classes may require advocacy projects on topics like homelessness, human trafficking, or the environment. By making service an academic requirement, NDP ensures students look beyond themselves and take action to create positive change.
Outside the classroom, NDP offers diverse service opportunities that enable students to align activities with their specific interests and talents. Some students volunteer weekly at local shelters or care facilities. Others tutor underprivileged youth or families impacted by homelessness and addiction issues. NDP also facilitates service trips across the U.S. and abroad during school breaks. Recent trips have focused on assisting communities in Appalachia, New Orleans, Ecuador, Jamaica, and Uganda.
A major focus of NDP’s community outreach is local hunger and food insecurity issues. Their campus food pantry provides groceries and household essentials to dozens of families each month. Students and faculty volunteer regularly at food banks, soup kitchens, and meal programs. Annual food drives generate thousands of donations for those in need right in the Baltimore community.
NDP prioritizes service partnerships with organizations like Catholic Charities, the YWCA, Thread, Moveable Feast, and the Franciscan Center. Students develop meaningful relationships with the people and communities served by these nonprofits. The hands-on experiences teach empathy and an understanding of social inequities affecting the disadvantaged.
Global outreach efforts are equally important at NDP. Students actively fundraise and advocate for international causes aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Key initiatives include promoting girls’ education in developing countries, supporting clean water projects, fighting child hunger, and assisting refugees.
NDP’s H2O for Life club raises money to build wells and provide WASH education in African communities lacking clean water access. Students learn about the public health crises caused by contaminated water and take action to fund tangible infrastructure solutions. Each new well project gives clean water to an entire village.
The Empty Bowls club educates the NDP community about child hunger issues through awareness campaigns and fundraisers. Proceeds go to UNICEF, the World Food Programme, and other nonprofits fighting malnutrition. Students are empowered to combat a global problem starting locally.
By instilling a spirit of empathy, compassion, and justice, NDP develops students into engaged citizens who uplift those in need. Alumni often cite their formative service experiences at NDP as inspiration for pursuing careers in social work, public health, education, ministry, and nonprofits. The lessons learned through serving communities last far beyond graduation.
One signature community outreach event is NDP’s annual Walk for the Homeless. Each April, over 900 students, faculty, alumnae, and friends walk 3.5 miles to raise money and awareness for homeless youth in Baltimore. To date, the walk has raised over $385,000 to support young adults transitioning out of homelessness.
NDP students are hands-on organizers of the entire event. They coordinate logistics, solicit sponsorships, create messaging, and engage the broader community. Getting youth involved as leaders teaches valuable skills in advocacy, fundraising, and event planning. Participating annually instills a lifelong commitment to compassion.
The Walk embodies NDP’s core values of serving thy neighbor and promoting social justice. It empowers students to better understand issues facing marginalized groups. They gain firsthand perspective by listening to speakers who have experienced homelessness and housing insecurity.
NDP’s immersive service learning curriculum transforms students into engaged citizens committed to advancing the greater good. By connecting classroom learning with real-world action, students realize their ability to drive positive change. Offering diverse service opportunities allows each student to find their unique role in bettering communities locally and globally.
Beautiful 30-Acre Campus
Set on a sprawling 30-acre campus in suburban Baltimore, Notre Dame Preparatory School provides a picturesque, serene setting that fosters academic and personal growth. The grounds – once part of the historic Maryvale estate – feature stately Georgian-style architecture surrounded by lush green spaces and athletic fields.
Signature buildings like the manor house, chapel, and Fort McHenry auditorium anchor the campus with old-world charm. More modern amenities include the state-of-the-art Kevin E. Schwab Athletic Center, Center for Arts & Technology, and Emmaus Retreat House for spiritual reflection.
NDP’s campus architecture purposefully evokes a collegiate feel. Students attend classes in buildings named for prominent Catholic figures like Mother Theresa, Dorothy Day, and Pope John Paul II. Walking the redbrick pathways between periods feels reminiscent of a university quad.
The main classroom building encircles a central courtyard with pruned trees, stone benches, and a fountain – providing an oasis of tranquility amid the hustle and bustle of student life. Students often eat lunch, socialize, or study on the courtyard lawn when weather permits.
Adjacent to the academic buildings, a tree-lined reflexive walkway provides another serene spot for contemplation and prayer. Students can meander the path while reflecting on virtues like gratitude, empathy and integrity – values integral to an NDP education.
The campus architecture functionally fosters connection as well. Multiple common spaces like the dining hall, campus store, and learning commons allow students from all grade levels to intermingle and build relationships.
NDP’s picturesque chapel sits at the heart of campus, both physically and spiritually. Stained glass windows and a sloped copper roof point toward the heavens, beckoning the community to gather in faith. Students attend all-school Mass here weekly, united in sisterhood.
A mix of green athletic fields and courts surround the academic buildings, allowing NDP’s championship-caliber athletes to train and compete right on campus. Spaces like the softball diamond, turf lacrosse/field hockey field, and tennis courts promote physical activity and wellbeing.
The campus borders the scenic Rock Grotto, a tranquil space ideal for quiet reflection. Benches tucked into a hillside overlook trickling streams, lush trees, and a replica of the Lourdes grotto in France – providing a spiritual refuge from daily stresses.
Outdoor classrooms and garden spaces also take advantage of NDP’s expansive grounds. Students study environmental science hands-on while checking bee colonies in the pollinator garden. The campus farm offers land for sustainable gardening and exploring food systems.
NDP’s proximity to two major metro areas gives students easy access to broader opportunities. Situated 20 minutes from Baltimore and 50 minutes from Washington D.C., faculty can utilize these cities as living classrooms. Students gain exposure by visiting museums, nonprofits, businesses, and government agencies.
The 30-acre campus allows NDP to offer amenities typically reserved for colleges and universities. State-of-the-art academic facilities, athletics complex, arts spaces, dining hall, and residence halls give students a sneak peek at independent living. All while fostering a tight-knit community rare at larger institutions.
Campus architecture strategically accommodates both collaborative and solitary spaces. Open lounges and study nooks allow students to work independently or in groups. Dorm lounges in the convent residence hall provide room for late-night chats.
Outdoor benches tucked under trees offer serene spots for reading. Picnic tables on the quad provide room for group lunchtime discussions. This carefully crafted blend of individual reflection and social connection underpins student development.
NDP’s lush campus has served as the backdrop for generations of traditions and memories.lip Sync battles in the gym, coffeehouse concerts in the lounge, and pre-prom photoshoots on the chapel steps link today’s students to alumnae from decades past.
The natural beauty provides visual inspiration as well. Students channel the changing seasons and landscaped surroundings into art, photography, poetry, and more for their creative pursuits.
Prospective students consistently cite the stunning campus as a major factor attracting them to NDP. The ability to learn, grow, and form relationships against the backdrop of historic architecture and verdant fields is truly special.
NDP’s meticulously designed campus reflects the comprehensive, holistic approach to educating young women in mind, body, and spirit. The grounds themselves become an extension of the top-tier academic and student life experience on offer.
Strong Sense of Sisterhood
As an all-girls Catholic high school, Notre Dame Prep fosters a palpable spirit of sisterhood that creates deep bonds between students across all grade levels. Fostering this sense of community and connection is a central pillar of student life.
NDP intentionally cultivates sisterhood through traditions like Big/Little Sisters, where new students are paired with older mentors to guide their transition to high school. Lifelong friendships form through this special cross-grade relationship.
Class retreats also unite each grade around shared experiences tailored to their developmental stage. Freshmen bond at outdoor camp, sophomores reflect on community service, juniors focus on self-discovery, and seniors prepare for the transition beyond.
Campus Ministry organizes activities rooted in faith but fun, from glow-in-the-dark rosary nights to coffeehouse Masses. Students grow spiritually while forming friendships that cross social groups.
Athletic teams, arts programs, and over 50 clubs provide additional avenues to find shared interests and belonging. Cheering one another on builds community beyond the classroom. Service initiatives, from food drives to mission trips, deepen bonds while working together toward a common purpose.
Significant effort goes into deliberately mixing students through assigned lunch tables, advisory groups, and class/dorm roommate pairings. This structured interconnectedness ensures all find their niche.
Weaving in women’s empowerment further unites students in sisterhood. Clubs like She’s the First foster advocacy around access to education globally. The Feminist Collective explores issues affecting women through film screenings and dialogues.
Special assemblies reinforce lifting one another up. Guest speakers share stories overcoming adversity as women. Workshops held during Women’s History Month build leadership and self-confidence.
Alumnae visits demonstrate the power of NDP sisterhood transcending generations. Graduates today become mentors, college recruiters, guest lecturers, and career panelists to inspire current students.
Sisterhood takes on an even deeper meaning through the integral House System at NDP. Each student is randomly assigned one of six Houses named after inspirational women. House acts as their family.
Houses promote identity, leadership, and friendly competition. Students gain points for House through academic excellence, athletics, service hours, and other involvement. The Cup is awarded annually to the House with the most points.
Houses come together for events like fundraisers, intramural sports, talent shows, and themed parties. Big/Little Sisters are in the same House to foster bonding. Houses create built-in networks of peer support.
The campus itself promotes sisterhood through intentional design. Multiple common spaces allow students to come together, from the dining hall to lounges. NDP feels like one big home.
Most impactful is the unique option for students to live on campus in the convent dorm. Over 100 boarding students from the U.S. and abroad reside together with faculty as mentors. The sisterhood formed through late-night chats and dorm traditions creates lifelong bonds.
One special annual tradition beloved by all is Ring Day. Juniors receive class rings blessed in a schoolwide ceremony. Seniors pass rings down literally connecting present and future classes in an unbroken chain of sisterhood.
NDP graduates point to the strong sense of community and belonging as a fundamental piece of their experience. Sisterhood nurtured here becomes the foundation for confidence and success beyond high school.
Current students cite NDP’s sisterhood as a key factor in assimilation. New students immediately feel part of something bigger, with built-in peer support crossing grades and social groups.
Parent feedback consistently praises the familial environment. Students uplift and look out for one another like siblings. Bullying and exclusivity are actively defused through the spirit of sisterhood.
Faculty model nurturing relationships across departments. Teachers host Shrek movie nights and spa days for bonding beyond academics. Meals and meetings start in a communal circle.
Sisterhood is actively sustained even after graduation through the extensive, engaged alumnae network. “Once a Blazer, always a Blazer” signifies lifelong membership in the NDP community.
At a time when teenage girls often feel isolated and divided, NDP provides the gift of built-in belonging. Students graduate not just with friends, but with sisters. This empowering ethos allows each student to thrive as their best self.
Diverse and Inclusive Student Body
Notre Dame Prep prides itself on cultivating a diverse and inclusive student body that reflects a mosaic of backgrounds, talents, and perspectives. As an all-girls Catholic school, NDP embraces students of all faiths, races, nationalities, and socioeconomic statuses.
Roughly 25% of the student body represents diverse ethnic backgrounds, hailing from Chinese, Indian, Hispanic, African-American, and multiracial families. International students from over 10 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America also enrich the NDP community.
The school actively recruits qualified students from all demographics through partnerships with community organizations, recruiting events, and scholarships. Targeted outreach ensures traditionally marginalized groups have access to an NDP education.
Robust International Student and Multicultural Alliances programs help foreign students and those of diverse cultures assimilate and find their voice. Specialized support provides a smooth transition into the close-knit NDP sisterhood.
While rooted in Catholic faith, NDP welcomes students of all religious beliefs. Roughly 20% identify as non-Catholic, including Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and non-religious students. Campus Ministry offers interfaith programming exploring spirituality across traditions.
The theology curriculum covers comparative religions and cultivates interreligious dialogue. Students gain deep respect for diverse perspectives on faith, ethics and morality. Electives allow exploration of topics from world religions to the psychology of belief.
Club offerings like Muslim Student Association and Jewish Culture Club provide spaces for students of minority faiths to come together in their identity and share customs. However, students report religion does not create cliques or divisions in the united NDP sisterhood.
Socioeconomic diversity is equally valued at NDP, reflected in the wide range of professional and working-class families served. Roughly 30% of students receive financial aid to make an NDP education accessible regardless of means.
A range of family structures are embraced, including single-parent, divorced, interfaith, same-sex parent, blended, multigenerational and non-traditional households. LGBTQ+ students are welcomed and affirmed holistically.
Far from homogenous, NDP students represent a true tapestry of modern society. Learning alongside those with different lived experiences creates empathy and expands worldviews. Students graduate prepared to lead inclusively in an interconnected world.
NDP employs several strategies to foster an environment where all students feel a sense of belonging. Mixing advisory groups, assigned lunch tables, and dorm/classroom assignments prevents cliques from dominating.
Student groups representing marginalized communities provide safe spaces for support and advocacy. Black Student Union explores issues like systemic racism through film, research and dialogue. Prism supports LGBTQ+ community and promotes allyship.
Teachers receive regular diversity training to employ inclusive pedagogies and mitigate bias. Courses are designed to represent diverse voices through authors, subject matter and open dialogue.
Administration proactively addresses any issues like discrimination, microaggressions, and insensitivity. Restorative justice models focus on education, growth and healing over punishment.
Beyond demographics, NDP sees value in diversity of thought, personality, abilities, interests and learning styles. Students thrive in an environment that does not force them into narrow boxes.
Clubs cater to a spectrum of interests, from debate team to equestrian club. Arts and athletics welcome beginners to advanced. Mixed grade service opportunities unite different ages and social groups.
Customized academic plans ensure gifted learners are challenged while students who need special education or ELL support receive individual accommodations and assistance.
Admissions actively considers students’ unique passions, goals and growth areas rather than just grades and test scores. Well-rounded classes comprise a natural mix of strengths.
At the classroom level, teachers utilize differentiated instruction, flexible grouping, hands-on projects and multimedia to engage various learning styles. Students are empowered to showcase what makes them unique.
Within NDP’s tight-knit sisterhood, students gain empathy and comfort with differences. They learn firsthand that diversity in all forms enriches the community and enables all members to thrive as their full selves.
Passionate and Dedicated Faculty
Selecting the right high school can be one of the most important decisions a family makes. For parents seeking a holistic, values-based education for their daughters, Notre Dame Preparatory School in Towson, Maryland stands out as a premier option. This all-girls Catholic institution fosters integrity, spirituality, academic excellence, leadership, and service in its students through its passionate and dedicated faculty.
The teaching staff at Notre Dame brings a wealth of expertise across various subjects and grade levels. Many hold advanced degrees in their fields and have years of classroom experience. They choose to teach at Notre Dame because they are committed to the school’s mission of empowering young women. The faculty truly cares about each student as an individual and wants to see her thrive.
“Our teachers go above and beyond to nurture our intellectual curiosity,” says Maggie, a senior. “They make class engaging with thoughtful lesson plans. It’s clear they put a lot of time into tailoring their teaching methods to our learning styles.”
This high level of commitment fosters meaningful relationships between teachers and students. Mary, a freshman, describes how her math teacher regularly stays after school to provide extra help. “She explains things step-by-step until I fully grasp the concepts. I can tell she genuinely wants me to succeed.”
The faculty encourages students to think critically, ask questions, and express their ideas. There is a strong emphasis on developing leadership capabilities along with academic skills. Teachers serve as mentors, guiding students to identify their passions and make a difference in the world.
“My English teacher Ms. Brown has been incredibly supportive as I explored my interest in activism,” says Sarah, a junior. “Under her mentorship, I launched a successful petition drive last year to reduce the school’s use of plastic bottles. Her faith in me gave me confidence that my voice matters.”
This type of empowerment permeates the Notre Dame culture. Teachers design engaging lessons using the latest educational techniques, from multimedia projects to collaborative group work. Their innovative methods help students master material in creative ways.
For example, the science faculty developed an interactive green roof on campus to teach environmental science concepts hands-on. Students conduct experiments and record data up on the roof to analyze factors like temperature, soil composition, and plant growth.
“The green roof project has been an awesome way to make science come alive,” says Michaela, a sophomore. “Our teacher Ms. Kapur is always finding fun, practical ways for us to apply what we learn in class.”
This experiential approach provides meaningful learning experiences outside a rigid textbook curriculum. Classes take on contemporary issues and explore real-world problems through lenses like social justice, ethics, and theology.
“My religion teacher Mrs. Davis ties our lessons into current events and our lives,” explains Natalie, a senior. “We have amazing class discussions about living out our faith in today’s complex world. Her wisdom and guidance have shaped my spiritual journey.”
The passionate faculty serves as role models, exemplifying the values of integrity, discipline, and compassion. Their dedication sparks students’ curiosity and love of learning. Every teacher works to draw out the best in each girl. This profoundly impacts students, inspiring them to strive for excellence.
“Attending Notre Dame has been life-changing thanks to the incredible teachers,” says Emma, a senior. “They taught me how to think critically, express myself articulately, and contribute meaningfully to community. Their mentorship prepared me to take on the world.”
For young women seeking academic rigor, character development, and empowerment, Notre Dame’s faculty sets the school apart. Their passion and dedication in educating the next generation of female leaders create a nurturing environment where girls can thrive.
College Counseling and Career Guidance at Notre Dame Preparatory School in Maryland
Finding the right high school can be one of the most important decisions for a teenage girl and her family. Parents want to ensure their daughter receives a top-notch education that prepares her for college and beyond. They also want her to feel known and supported during these formative high school years. When considering all-girls Catholic schools, Notre Dame Preparatory School (NDP) in Towson, Maryland stands out as a leader in empowering young women. Let’s explore why NDP may be the best all-girls Catholic high school option in Maryland.
First and foremost, NDP emphasizes college counseling and career guidance from day one. Their four-year curriculum intentionally builds critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity skills needed for college success. Starting freshman year, each student works individually with NDP’s full-time college counselors to explore her interests, identify target schools, and submit competitive applications. The school boasts a 100% college acceptance rate, with graduates attending top universities nationwide.
Beyond college prep, NDP focuses on igniting each girl’s passion – whether that be in STEM, arts, athletics, service, or another area. Girls can pick from over 25 clubs and activities to pursue outside the classroom. The school also offers 25 different athletic teams, from perennial powerhouses like soccer and lacrosse to emerging programs like ice hockey and rugby. Joining a team teaches invaluable life lessons about hard work, teamwork, and resilience.
Faith and service are also central to an NDP education. As a Catholic school, NDP provides opportunities for spiritual growth through campus ministry programs. Putting faith into action, all students complete community service hours each year. NDP girls donate 15,000+ hours annually to meaningfully improve their local communities.
Single gender education provides particular benefits for girls academically, socially, and emotionally. According to extensive research, girls in all-girls schools demonstrate less gender stereotyping, increased self-confidence, and greater interest in math, science, and technology compared to coed environments. The sisterhood feel of NDP offers a safe space for girls to take healthy risks, find their voices, and support one another. Students cite the genuine relationships between teachers and classmates as a top highlight.
For over 150 years, Notre Dame Prep has empowered generations of young women. The school has an outstanding reputation regionally and nationally for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum, differentiated instruction, and commitment to girls. U.S. News and World Report, Niche, and other rankings consistently place NDP as a top all-girls Catholic high school. Perhaps most telling, though, are the personal stories of graduates who credit NDP with shaping who they became.
Take Sarah, Class of 2019, who said, “Attending NDP was one of the best decisions I ever made. The sisterhood I found is incredible. My teachers pushed me to think critically and live courageously. I felt fully prepared for college thanks to the skills I built at NDP.” Or Kristen, Class of 2021, who shared, “NDP brought out the absolute best in me. I discovered my passion for science and now I’m studying engineering. I’m forever grateful for the teachers who believed in me.”
The young women of NDP are passionate, thoughtful leaders committed to making a difference in the world. Parents can feel confident entrusting their daughters to this special community that empowers girls to become their best selves. From the rigorous curriculum to the devoted faculty to the emphasis on service, NDP delivers an exceptional high school experience.
For families seeking the best all-girls Catholic education in Maryland and beyond, Notre Dame Prep soars above the rest. Schedule a tour to see NDP’s sisterhood and spirit in action. Discover why so many say Notre Dame Prep is “the best four years” for empowering the next generation of bold, compassionate female leaders ready to make their mark on the world.
Alumnae Network and Lifelong Bonds at Notre Dame Preparatory School in Maryland
Ask any Notre Dame Prep alum what they cherish most from their high school experience, and you’re guaranteed to hear about the sisterhood. The bonds forged at NDP during those pivotal four years resonate across college, career, and life. This tight-knit alumnae network offers a built-in community of women who continue supporting and inspiring each other long after graduation.
Mary, Class of 2005, explains, “When I think about NDP, it’s the friendships that come to mind first. My best friends today are women I met on the first day of freshman year. We leaned on each other through every high school milestone. Now spread across the country, we stay connected and visit whenever we can.”
That sense of sisterhood starts on campus. Students of all grade levels get to know one another through multi-grade clubs, activities, and service projects. Athletics also unite girls across ages, with varsity teams blending freshmen through seniors. Student government facilitates cross-grade bonding at events like Freshman Frenzy group outings and Junior Ring Ceremony.
This intermingling means younger girls gain role models and mentors in the junior and senior class leaders. Older girls learn patience, empathy, and responsibility through mentoring their younger sisters. Forged through shared experiences, these close-knit relationships evolve into lifelong friendships.
The alumnae network keeps that sisterhood alive. Social media groups allow alumnae to share milestones like weddings, babies, and new jobs. In-person reunions take place annually in cities like Washington, D.C., New York, and Baltimore as alums reconnect and reminisce. Sisters who haven’t seen each other in years often pick right back up as if no time has passed.
For Molly, Class of 2010, highlights of her all-girls education include “learning the power of women supporting women and gaining a steadfast group of friends for life. A decade after graduating, we still get together and it feels like coming home.”
This loyal alumnae community also inspires graduates to pay it forward. Alums are quick to help fellow sisters with internship leads, career advice, and mentorship. They actively recruit at their alma mater and show preference for NDP graduates. The shared bonds empower generations of women to lift each other up.
In addition to networking, alumnae stay involved with NDP by volunteering as guest speakers, serving on boards, and mentoring current students. Their passion keeps traditions alive and influences the next wave of young women. NDP sisters describe feeling comforted knowing alumnae walk the same halls and share the same school pride.
Kate, Class of 2022, says her favorite part of senior year was connecting with graduates at events like the Senior Legacy Luncheon. “Hearing their stories made me feel so proud to join the NDP alumnae network. I know no matter where life takes me, I’ll always have my sisters.”
Notre Dame Prep understands its responsibility extends beyond those four years. The school instills values like service, justice, and compassion to empower young women who transform communities. Graduates credit NDP with giving them an unshakeable confidence to lead and make a difference. The alumnae network ensures this chain of women continues lifting each other higher for generations to come.
Sisterhood is forever at Notre Dame Prep. Long after crossing the graduation stage, graduates carry the bonds, wisdom, and pride forged at NDP into adulthood. Alumni attest their closest friendships and fondest memories originate with their sisters. For young women seeking the type of supportive sisterhood that lasts a lifetime, Notre Dame Prep delivers.
Focus on Developing Confident Leaders at Notre Dame Preparatory School in Maryland
Notre Dame Prep understands its responsibility goes beyond academics alone. Yes, NDP delivers a rigorous curriculum that prepares young women for college success. But equally important, the school focuses on nurturing the confidence, character, and leadership skills graduates need to make their mark on the world. Parents can feel assured their daughters will thrive at NDP’s empowering environment that brings out the best in every girl.
Leadership development begins on day one at NDP. Freshmen start high school by being paired with a “big sister” mentor from the junior class. This buddy system provides guidance and role modeling to help younger girls transition smoothly. Right away, freshmen gain exposure to confident older student leaders organizing activities and voicing opinions.
From there, NDP continually presents opportunities for girls to discover their voices. Teachers encourage speaking up in class and acting in school plays. Joining clubs and teams lets girls test leadership roles in low-pressure settings. Student government elections offer real-world lessons in public speaking, event planning, teamwork, and more.
Critically, the all-girls environment provides space for teens to gain confidence without self-consciousness. Research shows girls in single-gender settings take more intellectual risks and develop greater self-assurance. Freed from gender stereotypes, NDP girls feel comfortable being assertive, outspoken leaders.
This emphasis on empowerment pays dividends after graduation. Alumnae describe entering college and careers with the self-belief to speak up in male-dominated fields, run for office in student government, launch companies, and blaze trails in other ways.
An NDP education also instills strong character and integrity. Students undergo ethical training on topics like inclusion, honesty, and respect. Giving back through community service teaches empathy and care for others. The honor code challenges girls to act with courage and compassion in line with their morals.
By graduation, these young women have developed into thoughtful, principled leaders committed to improving their communities. Colleges and employers recognize an NDP diploma as a marker of outstanding character and citizenship.
Parent testimonials rave about the personal growth experienced at Notre Dame Prep. Julie, mother of Lily ’21, shared, “NDP brought out Lily’s natural strengths and passions while pushing her beyond her comfort zone. She blossomed into a bold, caring, confident young woman.”
Mary, mother of Natalie ’24, said, “I’ve watched my shy daughter steadily gain self-assurance at NDP. She speaks out more in class discussions, joined the debate team, and aspires to run for student government. I’m amazed at her transformation.”
The single-gender advantage at NDP can’t be overstated. Studies consistently show girls build greater self-confidence and interests in leadership roles when separated from male peers. NDP alums attribute their outspokenness and willingness to take risks to those pivotal years spent in an all-girls setting.
Notre Dame Prep excels at empowering the next generation of female changemakers ready to lead communities, companies, nonprofits, and more. NDP graduates matriculate at Ivy League universities known for producing presidents, CEOs, judges, and other societal leaders.
Yet leadership also means leading with compassion. Alongside achievement, NDP emphasizes care for others through community service, ethical development, and more. Young alumnae describe their calling to lead with both confidence and conscience thanks to NDP’s holistic approach.
Parents seeking to ignite their daughter’s brightest future need look no further than Notre Dame Prep. This remarkable school delivers an unparalleled experience that transforms girls into courageous, principled leaders equipped to make their mark on the world.
Affordable Tuition Assistance at Notre Dame Preparatory School in Maryland
Providing access to an exceptional all-girls Catholic education guides everything at Notre Dame Prep. While costs continue rising across private schools, NDP actively controls tuition to remain affordable for hardworking families. Need-based financial aid also allows daughters of all backgrounds to benefit from NDP’s empowering environment.
Notre Dame Prep bucks the troubling trend of runaway tuitions pricing out middle-class families. Over the past decade, average private school tuition increased over 25% nationally. At NDP, increases averaged less than 2% annually. For 2022-23, tuition holds at $16,575 with no hike.
NDP streamlines costs through strategic initiatives like group purchasing, energy conservation, and creative staffing. This cost discipline translates into tuition thousands less than competing private schools. Additional savings come from NDP’s all-inclusive tuition covering books, technology, field trips, retreats, and more.
Beyond controlled tuition, Notre Dame Prep provides need-based financial assistance to ensure affordability. In 2021-22, NDP awarded over $1.3 million in aid allowing socioeconomic diversity. To qualify, families complete an aid application detailing household size, income, assets, and expenses.
Aid amounts vary based on each family’s unique situation. Awards include tuition grants, multi-child discounts, payment plans, and more. On average, financial aid covers 35-50% of costs. Thanks to this support, many hardworking families find NDP comparable or even less than their public school option.
NDP also facilitates outside scholarships and interest-free loan programs. Families needing extra assistance can apply for third-party scholarships through local organizations, churches, employers, and others. Low-interest financing helps spread costs over multiple years.
Current NDP parent Jen explains, “Thanks to the financial aid process, we can provide this life-changing opportunity that otherwise wouldn’t have been possible. Our daughter flourishes thanks to the teachers, sisterhood, and values she’s gaining.”
Alumni like Sarah, Class of 2019, say, “I’m the first in my family to attend private school. NDP seemed financially out of reach, but the financial assistance made it achievable. I received so much more than a top education; I gained confidence and sisterhood that changed my life.”
Notre Dame Prep actively promotes socioeconomic diversity knowing this creates a richer experience for all students. Young women share ideas, talents, and friendship across lines of difference. Research shows cross-social engagement enhances critical thinking, empathy, and leadership skills.
Thanks to thoughtful cost management and strategic aid, NDP enrolls high-potential daughters of police officers, teachers, healthcare workers, construction managers, and more. These hardworking parents appreciate NDP’s mission of making an exceptional education accessible.
Karen, parent of Maya ’25, shared, “Our priority was finding the right fit for our daughter where she’d thrive, regardless of cost. Between controlled tuition and financial assistance, NDP proved the perfect match for our family.”
Ultimately, Notre Dame Prep refuses to let finances obstruct bright young women from experiencing their unique sisterhood and empowering approach. While costs rise elsewhere, NDP actively controls tuition and provides aid to maintain accessibility and diversity.
Parents wanting the best for their daughters, along with affordability and assistance, need look no further. Schedule a tour at NDP to see firsthand their commitment to accessibility. Discover why families call Notre Dame Prep “the best investment” in their daughter’s future success and happiness.
Visit Notre Dame Prep in Towson, MD!
Choosing the right high school is one of the most important decisions for families. Notre Dame Prep understands parents want to make informed choices about their daughter’s education. That’s why NDP encourages visiting their beautiful Towson, MD campus to experience the spirit and sisterhood firsthand.
Tours run weekly during the school year. Families hear from admissions staff then observe classes, activities, and facilities. Students lead tours sharing favorite spaces like the STEM lab, arts studio, athletic center, and more. Visitors gain insights about academics, extracurriculars, and campus life from the girls themselves.
Seeing NDP students in action provides the best sense of day-to-day experiences. You may find freshmen debating in English class, the robotics team programming drones, dancers rehearsing for a show, or lacrosse players training outside. Peeking into the dining hall you’ll see laughing groups of friends enjoying lunch together.
NDP girls exude confidence and kindness as they learn and socialize. Current parents love watching their daughters thrive in this supportive sisterhood. Prospective families immediately notice the energy and community that makes NDP special.
In addition to the student-led tour, information sessions give the full admissions picture. You’ll hear about their approach blending rigorous academics, leadership development, athletics, arts, and service. The all-girls advantage comes to life as you observe self-assured students pursuing their passions.
Admissions also explains the affordability strategy keeping tuition accessible. Many families tour multiple private schools, then find NDP’s tuition and aid opportunities the most reasonable. Learning about financial assistance and scholarships has allowed some girls to consider private education for the first time.
Families leave campus tours feeling the sisterhood bond between students and teachers. They gain assurance that each girl is known, supported, and empowered to find her voice. Prospective students picture themselves thriving within the warm NDP community.
Mia, Class of 2024, said her campus visit sealed NDP as her top choice. “From the moment I stepped on campus, it just felt right. The students were so welcoming and happy. I knew I wanted to be part of the sisterhood.”
Tours also provide the chance to ask student ambassadors about their experiences. They share honest perspectives on academics, social life, dorm living, and more. Families appreciate getting unfiltered insights directly from the girls themselves.
After touring, many students beg their parents to let them enroll right away. The sense of belonging and limitless opportunities excites prospective girls about attending their future high school. Parents gain peace of mind knowing NDP is the perfect fit.
Virtual options allow out-of-state families to tour remotely until they can visit in person. Livestreamed tours capture all the same sights and stories. Many say NDP’s community shines through even virtually.
For families considering Notre Dame Prep, don’t just research online. Come immerse yourself in the sisterhood and spirit that makes NDP special. Prospective students inevitably leave campus tours eager to become the next generation of confident, compassionate graduates changing the world.