Just Possibilities

Modeled on St. Mary's Special School for Exceptional Children in St. Louis, Mo., Notre Dame School was founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1963 with the blessing of the then Diocese of Dallas-Fort Worth.

The mission of Notre Dame School is twofold, to provide a quality education, independent living skills, job skills and career exploration to persons ages 8 through 21 with mental disabilities and to facilitate their integration into society. The School maintains that each child is a unique individual who is entitled to the opportunity to develop to his/her fullest potential in an atmosphere of love and genuine concern.

The only independent school in the Dallas area devoted exclusively to educating children with developmental disabilities, Notre Dame School is guided by the firm belief in the dignity of each person as a child of God. Students are grouped according to age and work at their particular functioning level within their age group. The academic curriculum emphasizes math, reading, social studies and language arts. Music, PE, computer and religion classes are offered to all students. Independent living skills, job skills and career exploration are important elements in the Upper School. Christian values and attitudes are taught in all classes. Catholic students are involved in sacramental preparation as appropriate. A wide range of extracurricular activities are offered to encourage these friendships and foster independence. One of the unique elements of a Notre Dame education is the opportunities available to form meaningful and lasting friendships.

Presently, two SSNDs minister at Notre Dame School. Sister Maureen Therese Mueller teaches music and religion. Sister Jean Marie Smith teaches religion and provides clerical assistance.

At Notre Dame School, there are no limits, just possibilities.

How do you name and embrace your disabilities? What limits are you placing on your possibilities?

All Photos Courtesy of Notre Dame School
Feature Box Photo: Members of the Notre Dame School Cheerleading Squad
Left to Right:
Reading Group: Notre Dame students come together to learn about currect events.
Student with pumpkin: Celebrating Halloween
Prom: Notre Dame students celebrating Prom.