Lacordaire Academy’s three-acre campus blends a wholesome, small-school education with an academic rigor that prepares graduates to enter the world. The college preparatory school provides a coed education from pre-K through eighth grade, and an all-women’s Upper School.
“Lacordaire is an age-appropriate, joyful bubble where parents know their children are safe and loved,” says Director of Admissions Saydi Callahan Keefe. “But we also want our graduates to be ready for the outside world with critical thinking skills, organization, knowledge and creative problem solving.”
PREPPING FOR COLLEGE (AND LIFE), DOMINICAN STYLE
Lacordaire was founded in 1920 by the Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell, as a French-English school for girls. It has evolved into Lower, Middle and Upper Schools led by a veteran leadership team that works together to uphold Dominican values.
Lacordaire is currently experiencing its highest enrollment ever, and this year resumed a robust schedule of events, celebrations and galas, both local and international trips as well as many opportunities for parent and community involvement. The school continues to have highly competitive high school and college placement rates. “We are thrilled to have a completely open and active school and lots of celebrations and programming for our students and their families to enjoy,” she says.
Lacordaire students are involved in activities such as a forensics and debate team, Mathematics Honor Society and vibrant performing and visual arts programs, along with an array of other clubs, organizations and sports teams. Three brand new, state-of-the-art science labs opened last fall.
Lacordaire also boasts a rigorous public speaking program, which is fitting as the school’s name pays tribute to Pere Henri Lacordaire, a 19th-century Dominican priest famous for his gift of public speaking.
SERVICE THROUGH KINDNESS
Lacordaire’s commitment to service is evident through an array of charitable activities, from students volunteering at soup kitchens to singing Christmas carols at local senior centers.
“We cultivate the Dominican values of community service and loving your neighbor and that shows in the interactions amongst our faculty as well as children in all three divisions—the older students see themselves as big brothers and sisters to the younger kids and they want to set a good example,” Keefe says.
155 Lorraine Ave., Upper Montclair
973-744-1156
lacordaireacademy.com