Business Details
Empowering Young Women Through Leadership and Service Since 1872
Since 1872, Villa Maria Academy Lower School has dedicated itself to the spiritual and academic development of young girls in a Catholic environment. Rooted in the IHM Charism of love, creative hope, and fidelity, the school empowers students through academic excellence, leadership opportunities, and service-oriented education. With a 15:1 student-teacher ratio and 50% of faculty holding advanced degrees, the academy provides personalized attention and a research-based curriculum tailored to girls' learning styles.The institution emphasizes moral development, critical thinking, and community service, preparing students for success in co-ed high schools and beyond. Over 30 extracurricular activities and athletic programs foster holistic growth, while the alumnae network demonstrates the lasting impact of a Villa education. The school maintains rigorous academic standards while integrating faith-based values, creating a supportive environment where girls thrive as confident, compassionate leaders.
Services
Preschool Program
Elementary Education
Middle School Curriculum
STEM Programs
Fine Arts Education
Highlights and features
- We offer 150+ years of tradition in girls' Catholic education
- Our 15:1 student-teacher ratio ensures personalized attention
- 50% of faculty hold advanced degrees in their specialties
- We provide an all-girl environment tailored to female learning styles
- Over 30 extracurricular opportunities develop well-rounded leaders
What people say
Empowering environment
Strong community support
Excellent college preparation
Faith-centered values
Dedicated teachers
Services
Preschool Program
Villa's Early Learning Center provides co-ed preschool education focusing on foundational skills through play-based learning. The program develops social-emotional readiness and academic curiosity in a nurturing environment. Students gain essential skills for future academic success while experiencing Catholic values.
Elementary Education
The K-5 curriculum emphasizes core academic subjects while developing critical thinking and collaboration skills. Teachers use research-based methods tailored to girls' learning styles in a faith-integrated environment. Students participate in STEM activities, fine arts, and service projects to build well-rounded capabilities.
Middle School Curriculum
Grades 6-8 program prepares girls for co-ed high school through rigorous academic instruction and leadership development. The all-girl environment fosters confidence in STEM subjects and public speaking. Students engage in advanced coursework while maintaining spiritual growth through service initiatives.
STEM Programs
Integrated science, technology, engineering, and math curriculum develops problem-solving skills through hands-on projects. Students participate in robotics competitions and engineering challenges. The program builds confidence in STEM fields within a supportive all-girl learning environment.
Fine Arts Education
Visual and performing arts curriculum includes music, dance, and drama instruction. Students participate in annual productions and art exhibitions. The program develops creativity and self-expression while integrating Catholic themes and values throughout artistic exploration.
People
Sister Susan
Principal
Sister Susan leads Villa Maria Academy Lower School with over 25 years of Catholic education experience. She emphasizes the IHM Charism values while maintaining academic excellence. Her leadership focuses on developing student confidence and spiritual growth.
Bernadette Dougherty
Alumna
Class of 1974 and former Advisory Board President, Bernadette exemplifies Villa's lasting impact. She serves as Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Schools for the Office of Catholic Education. Her career reflects the leadership values instilled during her Villa education.
Questions
What grades does Villa Maria Academy offer?
We offer preschool through 8th grade education with co-ed preschool and all-girls programming for grades K-8.
Is Villa Maria Academy a religious school?
Yes, we are a Catholic school rooted in the IHM Charism tradition, integrating faith into all aspects of education.
What makes an all-girl education beneficial?
Our single-sex environment removes gender stereotypes, increases confidence, and allows personalized instruction tailored to girls' learning styles.
How does Villa prepare students for high school?
Our graduates excel academically and socially in co-ed high schools, with strong leadership skills and self-confidence developed through our program.
What extracurricular activities are available?
We offer 30+ clubs, sports teams, and arts programs that develop leadership, creativity, and teamwork skills in a supportive environment.
Reviews (4)
Wendy Higgins
Oct 06, 2020
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Our family saw the real value of a private education with the sudden pivot to online learning. When other schools were working on a plan to suit all students, Villa was up and running with online learning within a couple of days. Teachers met with kids in Zoom Classrooms but also used Facetime to meet individually. We even got a couple of personal visits from one teacher including Easter treats and end of year goodies. Our kids are loved and cared for while they are learning and that includes classroom education as well as leadership skills, confidence and resilience. Even though we are not catholic
Laura
Jul 02, 2018
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Villa Maria is a very special place. My daughter first came to Villa Maria after my husband passed away. The environment my daughter has been provided on a daily basis is so supportive, encouraging and POSITIVE. She has been able to grow into an amazing young lady with the help of.this school. The prinicipal Sr. Susan Leads the school with every decision made for the best interest of the girls. My daughter and I both feel very blessed to have found Villa!
Cathleen Bodge
Jan 17, 2018
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Villa Maria Academy provides a nurturing environment for my girls. It promotes educational, emotional, spiritual growth while fostering a love of learning. The teachers are very in tune with the students strengths and needs. Villa is a wonderful community to grow and learn everyday.
Jennifer Lee
Jan 14, 2018
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Villa is a wonderful, amazing school. Our daughter has been there since Pre-K 4, and my only regret is that we didn't enroll her sooner! The academics are far better than I could've ever imagined, and are taught in a warm, nurturing environment. They have tons of extra-curricular activities, from field hockey to swimming to wonderful art and music programs. Our family isn't Catholic, but we have been fully welcomed into the Villa community without hesitation. It really is a special place--we love it so much.
