Academy of Our Lady

    ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, 537 Avenue D, Marrero – Academy of Our Lady is the signature Salesian high school in the greater New Orleans area for girls in grades 8-12. Centrally located on the West Bank of Jefferson Parish, the campus is easily accessible from both the Crescent City Connection and Huey P. Long Bridge.
    Under the direction of the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco, the Academy is devoted to the Salesian spirit of reason, religion and loving kindness. Key to fostering this spirit are four components that are recognized in every Salesian school. Those attributes make a Salesian campus a home that welcomes, a school that prepares for life, a playground where friends come to meet and a place for a church that evangelizes. It is a spirit that will serve girls well for a lifetime.
    Living the Salesian charism of bringing Christ to the young and the young to Christ, the Academy believes that the young can make a positive contribution to society. It is dedicated to providing an environment that encourages growth, creativity, self-discipline and personal commitment. This belief is carried out through an active service learning community. Classroom lessons in social justice and moral theology are brought to life through immersion experiences across the United States. Students give voice to the unborn during the Right to Life March in Washington and learn leadership and catechetical skills with other Salesian students at retreats in New York. Gospel values and ethical principles are integrated daily across all disciplines.
    The Academy is home to girls from diverse backgrounds, neighborhoods, ethnic groups and religions. At the Academy there exists a family atmosphere in which everyone is welcomed, accepted and respected. “The sisters are comfortable to be around,” says one parent, “and they’re easy to relate to and they connect with the girls.”
    The Academy offers a true technological advantage to its students, preparing them to flourish in a digital world. Wireless Internet is available throughout the entire campus. Each student receives an iPad or personal laptop for schoolwork. The latest technology in the classroom inspires innovative teaching and learning.
    Salesian Sister Michelle Geiger, the school’s principal, said, “The capabilities of the iPad and the multitude of applications available for classroom use are a great help to the students.”
    A rigorous college preparatory curriculum that surpasses state requirements establishes a firm foundation for college academics, professional success and lifelong learning. With a strong belief that every student can learn, faculty and staff are committed to helping students reach their highest potential.
    As one administrator explains, “Our girls excel. They work hard in a supportive and secure environment where they feel comfortable exploring new challenges.” 
    The Academy offers more than 125 courses, including electives in art, theatre and music. Advanced Placement and Honors courses are available across all disciplines. The flexible schedule allows students to earn up to 32 credits in four years. The eighth-grade experience allows for a gradual transition into high school while allowing students to earn up to five high school credits.
    Unique to Academy of Our Lady is the Health Science academic major program. The program allows students to explore a variety of health care professions, become comfortable with the language used by health care professionals, practice employability skills, increase their appreciation of and application to the sciences, and learn basic clinical skills in an internship in local health care facilities. Academic major programs in law and civil leadership, computer technology and culinary arts are also being implemented this school year.
    The Academy recognizes the importance of complementing a strong academic program with extracurricular activities. With more than 30 clubs focusing on academics, service and spirit, the Academy has an activity to match every girl’s interest.       
    The Academy is a member of the Louisiana High School Athletic Association, Class 4A. Performance teams include the junior varsity and varsity cheerleaders and Crystalettes dance team. Academy students also participate in Archbishop Shaw’s band, pep squad and dance team, as well as the nationally ranked Shaw Cheerleaders.
    Prospective students and families are invited to attend open house on Oct. 18. Presentations followed by tours will begin at 4 and 6 p.m. For more information, contact Mallory Matute in the Admissions Office at 341-6217, ext. 21, or [email protected].