Academy of the Sacred Heart
General Information — Academy of the Sacred Heart
About (Overview)
The Academy of the Sacred Heart is part of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools, an international collection of Catholic, independent schools inspired by the vision of Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat. There are multiple institutions bearing the name “Academy of the Sacred Heart” in the U.S., such as the Bloomfield Hills, Michigan campus and the New Orleans campus. The Michigan campus (often abbreviated as ASH) is Michigan’s oldest independent school, founded in 1851, and serves girls from infancy through grade 12 (and boys through grade 8). The New Orleans campus, known as “The Rosary,” is a Catholic, independent school for girls from age 1 through grade 12, operating under the auspices of the Archdiocese of New Orleans.
These schools combine rigorous academics with spiritual formation, service, and holistic growth. Their mission is to educate students to be intellectually competent, morally aware, socially responsible, and spiritually alive. Each campus emphasizes the five Goals of Sacred Heart Education—faith, intellectual values, social awareness, community, and personal growth. Students are encouraged to develop leadership, critical thinking, service orientation, and moral integrity within a faith-anchored context. Because the name encompasses multiple campuses, the specifics (e.g. enrollment, tuition, demographics) depend on which campus is being referenced.
Contact Informations (Address, Phone Number, Email Address)
Michigan Campus (Academy of the Sacred Heart, Bloomfield Hills): 1250 Kensington Road, Bloomfield Township, Michigan 48304.
Main Phone: [local campus phone]
Email: inquiries@ashmi.org (or admissions@ashmi.org)
New Orleans Campus (Academy of the Sacred Heart, The Rosary): 4521 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana.
Main Phone: (504) 269-1214
Email: admissions@ashrosary.org
School Facts (Founding Year, Motto, etc.)
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Michigan Campus Founded | 1851 |
| New Orleans Campus Founded | 1867 (as “Rosary”) |
| Type | Private, independent Catholic school |
| Grades Served | From early childhood / infancy to grade 12 (girls) |
| Gender Model | Girls (infancy–12), boys in lower grades in some campuses |
| Affiliation | Society of the Sacred Heart / Network of Sacred Heart Schools |
| Tuition (2025–26, New Orleans) | $20,355 for Pre-K; $24,800 for 12th grade |
| Accreditation & Memberships | Accredited, member of Sacred Heart Network, diocesan oversight in NOLA |
| School Colors / Mascot (NOLA) | Colors and mascot: Cardinals, “The Rosary” nickname |
| Motto / Vision | Faith, intellect, service, community, growth |
Academy of the Sacred Heart Rankings (National & State)
| Ranking Source | Position / Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Niche | A+ overall (Michigan campus) | Recognized highly for academics, teachers, college prep |
| Niche (Catholic High Schools Louisiana) | #1 Catholic High School in Louisiana | The New Orleans campus is ranked first among Catholic high schools in the state |
| GreatSchools / Local Ratings | Top tier in Michigan independent schools | Among the more selective private schools in the region |
Academy of the Sacred Heart Academics
Academy of the Sacred Heart Faculties / Departments
- English / Literature / Writing
- Mathematics
- Science / Laboratory Sciences
- Social Studies / History / Civics
- World Languages (e.g. French, Spanish)
- Theology / Religious Studies
- Fine Arts / Visual & Performing Arts
- Music / Choir / Drama
- Physical Education / Health
- Technology / Innovation / STEM Integration
- Guidance / College Counseling / Student Support
- Service / Leadership & Outreach Programs
Academy of the Sacred Heart Courses and Programs / Majors
As a K-12 institution, Sacred Heart schools do not offer majors in the collegiate sense, but advanced students—especially in upper grades—can specialize in course tracks. Typical offerings include:
- Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses in core subjects (Calculus, Physics, Chemistry, Literature)
- Dual enrollment options with local universities (where available)
- STEM electives: robotics, engineering, environmental science
- Advanced languages (French, Spanish, possibly Latin)
- Fine arts electives: studio art, digital media, theater, music
- Theology / scripture / ethics courses
- Service learning and mission immersion programs
- Capstone projects, independent research, senior seminars
- Leadership and outreach courses in social justice and community engagement
Online Learning
Many Sacred Heart campuses incorporate blended or hybrid learning models, particularly for advanced or elective courses not staffed locally. Online modules may support remote instruction, supplemental coursework, and enrichment opportunities. Students can access digital platforms for homework, assessments, collaborative projects, and asynchronous study. During emergencies or inclement conditions, some remote instruction capability exists. The design strives to combine in-person pedagogy with flexible online augmentation.
Average Test Scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, etc.)
| Test | Typical / Reported Data | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SAT | ~1300–1400+ | Many students at Sacred Heart campuses report above-average SAT performance |
| ACT | ~29–32 | Upper tier results among private school peers |
| AP / IB Exam Participation | High | Many students take multiple AP or advanced exams |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Sacred Heart schools generally show very high retention across grades, with students remaining through to graduation. Graduation rates for upper school cohorts are near 100%. The schools maintain stable enrollment and strong loyalty among families, aided by small class sizes, community bonds, and consistent educational philosophy. Because K–12 structure supports continuity, dropout is rare, and movement between grades is well supported.
Academy of the Sacred Heart Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admissions to upper school (high school) wings typically expect students to have strong grades in middle school—A’s and high B’s—especially in core subjects. Standardized test scores (if considered) often align with above-average performance, such as ACT in the high 20s to low 30s or SAT scores in the 1300+ range. Admission is selective, especially at the high school level. Entry into early grades is more open but still competitive in some regions.
Academy of the Sacred Heart Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Selective but not publicly disclosed | Varies by campus and year; high demand for upper school seats |
Academy of the Sacred Heart Application Requirements
Prospective families complete an application form, submit previous academic records (report cards, transcripts), standardized test scores or entrance exam results (if required), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or interview. At younger grade levels, assessments may include readiness testing or screening. Families often participate in campus visits, tours, and interviews with admissions staff. Financial aid or scholarship forms must accompany the application if needed.
Application Process
- Complete and submit the Sacred Heart admissions application by deadline
- Submit academic records, test scores (as required), and recommendation letters
- Attend tour or interview, if scheduled
- Take entrance or screening assessments (math, reading) if required
- Admissions committee reviews all credentials
- Notification of acceptance or waitlist status
- Confirm enrollment and complete registration procedures
Academy of the Sacred Heart Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Timeframe | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application Opens | Fall of prior year | For next academic year |
| Document Submission Deadline | Typically late fall / early winter | Transcripts, recommendations, essays due |
| Assessment / Interview Window | Winter | Testing or interviews scheduled |
| Acceptance Notification | Spring | Families receive admissions decisions |
| Enrollment Confirmation | Spring | Accepted students confirm and enroll |
| School Year Begins | August | New academic year launches |
Essay Prompt (if applicable)
Applicants may be asked to write a personal statement or essay on topics like “Describe a time you showed leadership or growth,” “Why Sacred Heart’s mission resonates with you,” or “What are your academic/career aspirations and how will Sacred Heart support them?” Essays allow the admissions committee to assess character, motivations, and alignment with school values.
Academy of the Sacred Heart Scholarships
Sacred Heart schools typically provide both merit-based and need-based scholarships or financial aid. Families who demonstrate financial need complete financial aid applications through third-party systems or in-house aid committees. Merit scholarships may be awarded based on academic excellence, standardized test performance, or leadership potential. Aid is renewed annually.
Academy of the Sacred Heart Tuition and Fees (Costs)
| Grade / Tier | Tuition & Fees Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-K (New Orleans) | $20,355 | Estimate for 2025–26 year |
| Lower School (Grades 1-4) | $22,580 | As published for NOLA campus |
| Middle / Upper Grades | $24,430 – $24,800 | Tuition tiers in advance grades |
| Early Childhood (Michigan) | Comparable private school tuition | Varies by campus and region |
Academy of the Sacred Heart Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
At many Academy of the Sacred Heart campuses, students are predominantly female in middle and high school divisions, while lower school levels may admit boys in earlier grades. For the Michigan campus, boys are admitted through grade 8. The student population tends to be racially and ethnically diverse depending on location. Because the school draws from regional and metropolitan areas, students represent a variety of cultural, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds, though many are Catholic or from families seeking faith-based education.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Sacred Heart campuses aim to provide access regardless of means, so a portion of the student body receives financial aid. Students with learning differences or disabilities may receive accommodations, support services, or differentiated instruction, though detailed percentages are not typically published. The schools strive to foster inclusive classrooms, individualized support, and remedial or enrichment programming to meet diverse learner needs.
Student Body (Total Students, International Students, etc.)
| Metric | Value / Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Enrollment (Michigan campus) | ~600–700 students | spanning infants to grade 12 |
| Student–Teacher Ratio | ~8–10 to 1 | Many Sacred Heart schools maintain low ratios |
| International Students | Present in some campuses | Some campuses have exchange programs or ESL offerings |
Academy of the Sacred Heart Diversity
Diversity at Sacred Heart schools is viewed through multiple lenses: racial, socioeconomic, religious, and cultural diversity. Each campus actively aims to recruit students from different backgrounds, providing scholarship and aid to broaden access. The Sacred Heart educational philosophy emphasizes global awareness and social justice, encouraging students to engage in community service, dialogue across difference, and moral reflection. The diversity in student life enriches classroom discussion, empathy, and cross-cultural understanding. While some campuses may have less visible demographic diversity due to location or tuition barriers, the commitment to inclusion and support is embedded in mission and strategic planning. Schools in urban centers often have more racial and economic mix, while suburban or affluent areas may show different profiles.
Academy of the Sacred Heart Average Earnings
As a K–12 institution, the Academy of the Sacred Heart does not report alumni earnings directly. The focus is on student preparation for college and lifetime success. Graduates often matriculate to competitive colleges and careers thanks to strong academic preparation, leadership development, and a values-based education. Over time, alumni networks may track career outcomes, and many graduates go into high-earning professions in business, law, medicine, education, and nonprofit sectors. The school’s indirect impact is realized in elevated earning potential of graduates compared to peers, minimized student debt (due to strong academic preparation), and long-term social influence.
Academy of the Sacred Heart Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Sacred Heart schools employ faculty with appropriate certification, advanced degrees, and alignment with the school’s mission of faith and excellence. Staff includes classroom teachers, specialist teachers (art, music, languages), guidance counselors, learning support staff, administrative leadership, admissions, and development teams. Many campuses also embed staff for mission, faith formation, service programming, and campus ministry.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty often hold advanced degrees in their subject areas, contribute to curriculum development, engage in professional development, and lead extracurricular or research projects. Some teachers serve as mentors, coordinate service programs, or publish educational work in Catholic or independent school journals. Others oversee global or exchange programs, direct arts, athletic, or STEM initiatives. Faculty recognition may include awards, leadership roles in the Sacred Heart network, or accreditation service.
Academy of the Sacred Heart Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
As private day schools, most campuses do not provide residential housing, though some historic Sacred Heart schools (e.g. Grand Coteau, Louisiana) have boarding components. Campus life centers on a blend of academic, spiritual, social, and extracurricular life. Students engage in liturgy, service, retreats, clubs, arts, athletics, leadership councils, student government, and community gatherings. The school grounds often include chapels, gardens, performance spaces, libraries, labs, and athletic facilities that create a vibrant educational environment reflecting Sacred Heart values.
Transportation (Access to Campus, Public Transport, On-Campus Mobility)
Students commute via private transport, carpools, school buses (if offered), or public transit depending on campus location. Campuses are designed to allow safe pedestrian movement between buildings, outdoor spaces, and gathering areas. Facilities often include parking lots, drop-off loops, covered walkways, and connectivity between academic, athletic, and arts buildings. On larger campuses, shuttle or internal transit might assist movement across a spread site. Student orientation includes campus navigation, safety, and mobility protocols to facilitate movement for new and younger students.