Notre Dame Academy

Notre Dame Amdcngi, grades 1>12.

In 1857 Bishop Bernard MacDonald issued an invitation to the Congregation oF Notre Dame in Montreal For sisters to conduct a school For girls in Charlottetown.

The invitation was quickly accepted and that same year the First oFthe Congregation’s private schools in the diocese began in a small building on Sydney Street. In 1870 the magnificent new Four-storey brick Notre Dame Academy opened next door. Because oFits great size and ideal location in the city it welcomed large numbers 0F boarders and day students alike and For over a century was an educational gem oF highest standing.

Notre Dame Academy remained a school For girls throughout its long existence. Within its walls it eventually oFFered a complete academic and moral education From First grade through high school with many

extras besides. Music was a special Feature of this great institution and its choirs were renowned For their accomplishments. At its heart were committed sisters whose lives inspired it all.

In 1971 Notre Dame Academy graceFully phased itselF out as an educational institution. Since then it has remained a convent For large numbers 0F sisters, many oF whom are still active in a variety oF services and missions.

Other Notre Dame Sisters’ Schools

Sisters oFthe Congregation oFNotre Dame began conducting private schools in the Following locations: Charlottetown, Notre Dame (1857) and St.Joseph’s (1863); Miscouche (1864); Summerside and Tignish (1868); Souris (1881) and South Rustico (1882).

Being excellent teachers they conducted equally excellent schools. In those early years times were generally poor and keeping these schools open meant many sacrifices by the sisters and parents alike. Eventually the burden became too great and decisions were made to move these private schools into the public school system.

Notre Dd mo Academy

18 9 EDUCATIONAL lNSTITUTIONS

81‘. Mom ’5 Comicnt Chapel, Smnmersiclc