History of Notre Dame

Founded in 1959 by Xaverian Brothers, Notre Dame offers a quality education in a safe and productive learning atmosphere that reflects gospel values.

In the beginning...

We were 3 separate Catholic schools: Utica Catholic Academy - founded in 1834 and staffed by the daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul; St. Francis de Sales - founded in 1907 and staffed by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet and the Brothers of St. Francis Xavier; and Notre Dame High School- founded in 1959 and staffed by Xaverian Brothers and an all boys school at its inception.

As we merged...

In 1976, all three independent high schools became one Catholic high school and adopted the name Notre Dame. Each school brought with it a long and rich tradition of sound principles and a Christian education.

Then, in 1986, we consolidated...

All of the Utica area Catholic secondary schools 7th and 8th grades. They became two junior high schools: Notre Dame Junior High North, which was housed at St. Francis de Sales; and Notre Dame Junior High South, which was housed at Our Lady of Lourdes. Eight years later, in 1995, the two junior high schools merged with the high school campus on Notre Dame Lane, located off Burrstone Road. We are now known as Notre Dame Junior/Senior High School, a 7th-through-12th grade school with an enrollment of approximately 600 students.

Notre Dame today...

Is Utica's only Catholic secondary school. It has always been dedicated to serving the needs and developing the academic, spiritual, and social gifts of its students. About 98% of Notre Dame graduates go on to college.

Certified, dedicated teachers stress Christian values in every aspect of the curriculum. Religion classes strengthen the students understanding and appreciation of prayer, sacrements, scripture, and doctrine. All students are encouraged to express their faith through active participation in parish events and volunteer community service. Through the campus ministry program, students serve as retreat leaders, tutors, and advocates for the poor.

The Notre Dame curriculum complies with all New York State Regents requirements while offering programs to meet the academic needs of all students. Advanced placement and accelerated courses, as well as tutorial assistance, are available.

Over one-half of the student population in grades 10-12 are part of the optional NJROTC program. These cadets (male and female) demonstrate leadership and citizenship as they contribute over 3,000 volunteer hours within the Utica area annually.

A majority of Notre Dame's students participate in the many sports programs available. For many years, Notre Dame has cultivated competitive teams characterized by teamwork and good sportsmanship. The Notre Dame community prides itself on its efforts to incorporate Christian values of honesty, courtesy, and respect in all aspects of our school life. Our hope is that our student athletes will incorporate these Christian values into life-long patterns of behavior.

Notre Dame, home of the Juggler Spirit is proud of its rich tradition and is committed to a future where other young men and women can experience the benefits of a value-centered, academically-challenging environment.