Navigating Admissions and Enrollment at Notre Dame College Prep
Notre Dame College Prep, a private Catholic institution located in Niles, IL, offers a distinct educational experience rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the charism of the School Sisters of Notre Dame. The school is dedicated to fostering global citizens prepared to transform the world, believing that diversity and excellence are intrinsically linked and that an inclusive community is paramount for students to grow into women comfortable navigating an increasingly interconnected global landscape. This commitment to holistic development is reflected in its comprehensive admissions process, designed to inform prospective families thoroughly and ensure a strong fit for both the student and the school community.
Understanding Enrollment Data and School Demographics
The Private School Universe Survey (PSS), a national dataset collected by the National Center for Education Statistics since 1989, serves as a key source for understanding private schools across the United States. Notre Dame College Prep has participated in this survey 16 times, with its most recent submission for the 2021-22 school year. This survey aims to gather comprehensive information about private schools, acknowledging that the regulation of such institutions varies by state, thus precluding a single, definitive national list. The PSS approximates this list through diverse channels, including state education departments, private school associations, religious organizations, and, in certain regions, online directories and local government offices. ProPublica has made efforts to identify and rectify apparent errors within this data, but acknowledges that some inaccuracies may persist.
For the 2021-22 school year, Notre Dame College Prep reported a total student enrollment of 734. The demographic breakdown of this student body, as captured by the PSS, includes a significant majority of White students, with smaller percentages identifying as Black, Hispanic, Asian, American Indian/Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, and Multi-racial. The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of 16:1, indicating a commitment to personalized attention within its academic environment. While these figures provide a snapshot of the school's student population, the admissions process is geared towards a forward-looking approach, aiming to cultivate a diverse and dynamic learning community.
The Admissions Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide
Notre Dame Preparatory School (NDP) emphasizes transparency and support throughout its admissions process, particularly for prospective students applying for grades 6 and 9. The school's philosophy centers on informed decision-making, providing prospective families with readily accessible information to navigate their application journey.
For incoming 9th-grade students, NDP aims for a class size between 150-160 students. The academic environment is characterized by small class sizes, with the average typically ranging between 13-16 students, fostering an intimate and conducive learning atmosphere. Incoming 9th graders are mandated to possess and utilize a laptop for academic purposes. This can be acquired through NDP directly or by participating in the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program, allowing families flexibility in their purchasing decisions. Detailed information regarding laptop requirements is provided in the accepted student's packet.
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Middle Level applicants, typically those seeking admission to grades 6, 7, or 8, are also required to have a laptop that meets specified academic standards. The availability of fee-based bus service may extend to families residing in Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Harford County, northern Baltimore County, and Howard County, depending on interest.
Special Considerations for Off-Grade Admissions
While NDP primarily focuses on admissions for grades 6 and 9, the school does consider applications for other grades, often referred to as "off-grade" admissions, which can include 7th, 8th, 10th, and 11th grades, particularly for students relocating into the area. However, it is crucial for prospective families to understand that space availability can significantly impact the possibility of off-grade enrollment. Grades 8 and 11 are identified as particularly competitive for admission due to the limited number of spaces typically available and the potential for more challenging social and academic transitions.
Any prospective student applying for an off-grade admission must complete several key steps. This includes attending a Blazer Day (formerly Shadow Day) alongside a current NDP student in their current grade, submitting copies of their prior year's final report cards and standardized test results, and taking the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE) between mid-November and the second Sunday of January in the application year. Families interested in off-grade admissions are strongly encouraged to contact the admissions office directly to inquire about current space availability.
Academic Support and Learning Resources
Notre Dame Prep is committed to supporting the academic success of all its students, recognizing that individual learning needs can vary. In 2021, the school established a dedicated Learning Resources Center. This center is staffed by NDP’s Director of Learning Resources, a Reading Specialist, a Writing Specialist, and a Math Specialist. Students who require accommodations, such as extended time on exams or other standard testing and classroom adjustments, can schedule regular or as-needed meetings with these specialists. It is important to note that some of these support services may involve fees, which are determined by the frequency of engagement.
For prospective students who have an existing support plan, submitting a copy of their educational evaluation is a mandatory part of the admissions process. NDP recognizes Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 plans for accommodations during the High School Placement Test (HSPT). Furthermore, any student accepted and enrolling at NDP must provide a completed educational evaluation to be considered for school-supported accommodations as an enrolled student. These evaluations should encompass both achievement and cognitive measures. NDP is committed to honoring accommodations, including up to 50% extended time and other relevant support strategies.
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Standardized Testing Requirements
The admissions process at Notre Dame Prep includes specific requirements for standardized testing, which vary depending on the grade level to which a student is applying.
For Upper Level applicants (typically 9th grade), the High School Placement Test (HSPT) is a mandatory component of the admissions process. Further details regarding the HSPT and its administration can be found in the "Testing" section of the school's "Apply" page.
Middle Level applicants are required to take the Independent School Entrance Exam (ISEE). This exam is a crucial part of the admissions evaluation for students entering grades 6, 7, or 8.
Financial Aid and Award Opportunities
Notre Dame Prep strives to make its educational offerings accessible to a wide range of families through various financial aid and award programs. These opportunities are available for both 6th-grade and 9th-grade applicants, with specific provisions for each.
For 6th Grade Applicants:* Need-Based Financial Aid: This aid is determined by a FACTS application, and families must demonstrate a clear financial need.
- Merit-Based Awards: NDP offers several academic merit awards granted to students who meet specific criteria, identified through their grades and test scores. More detailed information about these awards is typically shared at a parent session held on the morning of a student's Blazer Day.
- Talent-Based Awards: Four talent-based awards are available exclusively for incoming 6th-grade students. Prospective students interested in these awards must submit a formal application.
For 9th Grade Applicants:* Need-Based Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships): Similar to the Middle Level, this aid is initially assessed through a FACTS application. A thorough review is then conducted by the Director of Upper Level Admissions & Enrollment Management and members of the Financial Aid Committee. Award amounts are communicated within the acceptance packet and applied to the enrollment contract. To be considered for need-based financial aid, families must complete the FACTS application between November 1 and January 2 of the application year.
- Merit & Talent Awards: NDP also offers merit and talent awards for incoming freshmen, providing further avenues for financial assistance based on academic achievement and demonstrated talents.
Families are encouraged to visit the school's "Tuition & Financial Aid" page for more comprehensive details on all available financial assistance programs.
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The Blazer Day Experience
The Blazer Day, formerly known as Shadow Day, is a required and integral part of the Notre Dame Prep admissions process for all prospective students. This immersive experience is designed to give applicants a genuine feel for daily life at NDP. During Blazer Day, a student will attend all the classes of a current NDP freshman and actively participate whenever possible, offering a firsthand glimpse into the academic environment.
Prospective students are not required to bring any materials with them on their Blazer Day. Lunch is provided for all participants. While students attending a parochial school may opt to wear their school uniform, it is not mandatory. For students coming from public schools or those choosing not to wear a uniform, NDP suggests "Sunday church casual" attire. This typically includes a skirt and blouse, a dress with a cardigan, or slacks and a shirt, paired with rubber-soled, closed-toe shoes. Parking is available in designated visitor spots along the main driveway. The school endeavors to keep the Blazer Day session to approximately one hour, recognizing the time constraints of working parents and guardians. Registration is required for these virtual meetings.
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