Compare International Schools in Duluth, United States

Notre Dame Academy

Instructs in English

Fees $11,960 - 21,830

Type Co-educational

Notre Dame Academy in Duluth, Georgia is a private, co-educational school that delivers the International Baccalaureate continuum from Pre-K through 12. The campus at 4635 River Green Parkway houses dedicated spaces for STREAM learning, media, production, art and music, alongside gym facilities, weight room, locker rooms, and an athletic field. The school offers the IB Primary Years Programme for Pre-K to Grade 5, the Middle Years Programme for Grades 6–10, and the Diploma Programme for upper grades, with full accreditation across all ages. A Marist Catholic identity guides inquiry-based learning, service, and character development. NDA emphasizes global awareness, hands-on Arts and Film programs, and technology-enabled classrooms using iPads and MacBooks. Signature activities include the Annual Evening of the Arts, Christmas Band Concert, and hands-on film production through a DP Film program. NDA graduated its first IB Diploma cohort in 2020, highlighting commitment to international education in a faith-based setting today.

Location

Notre Dame Academy is located at 4635 River Green Parkway, Duluth, GA 30096, in the River Green Industrial Park, off Peachtree Industrial Boulevard between Abbotts Bridge Road (GA-120) and Pleasant Hill Road in Duluth, Georgia.

Stages

Lower School (Pre-K–5), Middle School (6–8), Upper School (9–12). The school serves Pre-K through 12th grade.

Type

Co-educational private school (Independent Marist Catholic school; International Baccalaureate World School).

Additional learning support

Learning supports are provided to qualifying students.

Country affiliation

United States.

Religious affiliation

Catholic (Marist).

School day structure

Lower/Middle School academic hours are 8:10 AM–3:10 PM; Upper School academic hours are 7:45 AM–3:30 PM. Building hours are 7:50 AM–6:00 PM for Lower and Middle School; Upper School building hours are 7:30 AM–4:00 PM.

Bus service

Bus services are offered with morning and afternoon routes; service is first-come, first-served; details and pricing are provided on the Visit Our Campus page.

Application and Enrollment Fees

- Application fee: USD 125.
- Enrollment fee: USD 115, collected at the time of enrollment.
- Tuition deposit collected at enrollment: USD 1,850 (applied to the student's tuition). The total initial collection at enrollment is USD 1,965 (USD 1,850 tuition deposit + USD 115 enrollment fee) via the school's billing system.

Tuition fees by year group (2026–2027 academic year)

- Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K4): USD 11,960 per year.
- Semi-annual (if using a two-payment schedule): USD 5,980 per payment (half of annual tuition).
- 12-month payment plan (divide equally across 12 months): USD 996.67 per month (annual tuition ÷ 12).

- Lower School (Kindergarten – Grade 5): USD 17,575 per year.
- Semi-annual: USD 8,787.50 per payment.
- 12-month plan: USD 1,464.58 per month.

- Middle School (Grades 6 – 8): USD 19,960 per year.
- Semi-annual: USD 9,980 per payment.
- 12-month plan: USD 1,663.33 per month.

- Upper School (Grades 9 – 12): USD 21,830 per year.
- Semi-annual: USD 10,915 per payment.
- 12-month plan: USD 1,819.17 per month.

(Note: the school states tuition rates are subject to annual increases of approximately 3%–5%.)

Required fees and regularly billed additional expenses

- Student-Family Organization Activity Fee: USD 300 (annual).
- Technology fees:
- Lower School technology fee (daily access iPad & MacBook; excludes Pre-K): USD 135.
- Middle School technology fee (school-issued iPad): USD 290.
- Upper School technology fee (school-issued MacBook): USD 570.
- Upper School retreat fee: USD 15.
- FACTS enrollment/processing fees (one-time per plan selection): USD 20 for early-pay & semi-annual plans; USD 50 for the monthly payment plan.
- Learning Support / Intervention fees (when applicable):
- Point-of-Need (K–2): USD 126 × 10 months = USD 1,260.
- 3rd–5th grade interventions: USD 340 × 10 months = USD 3,400.
- Direct Learning Support (Grades 6–12): USD 3,400.
- Athletics/team participation fees: typical range USD 195 to USD 500 per sport (varies by level and sport). Extra costs such as uniforms, league fees, and coach stipends are covered by these dues and billed through the family account after the season.
- Textbooks, summer reading, and grade-level supplies: vary by grade; families should expect to purchase books and some supplies during the year. The school provides an option to purchase most school supplies through a school supply vendor.
- Uniforms: purchased separately by families from the school's approved uniform supplier; pre-owned options are sometimes available through the school resale closet.
- Lunch program: hot lunch is available through the school's lunch provider; lunch accounts and purchases are managed separately.
- Other miscellaneous billed charges: IB exam fees, PSAT/SAT fees, bus/transportation fees, banquets, field trips, and club fees are billed to the family account during the year.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Billing and payment are handled through FACTS (the school's tuition management system). Families set up a FACTS account upon acceptance and select a payment option. Additional expenses and incidental charges are billed through FACTS over the course of the year.
- Payment options available via FACTS:
- Pay-in-full (single annual payment).
- Semi-annual payments (two payments, typically due in June and December).
- 12-month payment plan.
- FACTS enrollment/processing fees apply depending on the plan chosen (USD 20 or USD 50 as noted above).
- Due dates and monthly schedule: tuition and incidental fees processed through FACTS are due on the 5th or the 20th of each month, depending on the family's FACTS schedule. Seniors' tuition must be paid in full by May 5 of the current school year. Delinquent accounts may result in denied class admission, withheld transcripts/report cards, and/or dismissal from school activities.
- At enrollment, the USD 1,850 tuition deposit plus USD 115 enrollment fee are collected via FACTS to secure the student's placement; the tuition deposit is applied to the year's tuition.
- 529 plan payments: the school accepts 529 plan distributions for tuition payments up to USD 10,000 per calendar year per student.

Boarding fees

- Boarding is not applicable. Notre Dame Academy operates as a day school (Pre-K through Grade 12) and does not list boarding or residential fees.

Refunds and withdrawal policy

- Deposits and enrollment fees are non-refundable. If the school's administration determines the school is not a good fit and the family withdraws the student during the initial probationary period or by administrative decision, a prorated portion of the paid tuition (excluding non-refundable deposits and fees) will be reimbursed to the family. Tuition for seniors must be paid in full by the school's published deadline. The school may withhold records or limit participation for delinquent accounts.

Other notes on payments and common extras

- Incidental and activity charges (IB exam fees, testing fees, transportation, athletics fees, field trips, club fees, etc.) are billed through FACTS and must be paid according to FACTS billing cycles. Sports fees typically range from USD 195 to USD 500 per season; amounts vary by sport and level.

- Uniform costs, textbook purchases, and lunch program accounts are separate family expenses paid directly to the approved vendor or program managing that service.

Primary payment mechanics

- Tuition billing and scheduling are managed through FACTS; families establish and manage tuition plans there. 529 plan distributions are accepted for tuition payment up to the stated IRS-limited annual amount. FACTS enrollment/processing fees apply by plan type. Incidental charges are billed and collected via FACTS as they occur.

Uniform Requirement

Uniforms are required for all students. Uniforms are sold through FlynnO'Hara Uniforms. The 2026-2027 Uniform Guide can be viewed in the Parent Information section.

Food Options

Lunch is a hot lunch program managed by Welch's Personal Chefs. It costs $8.00 per day, including a milk option. Bottled water, juice, tea, and snacks are available at an additional cost.

Governance and Ownership

Notre Dame Academy is an independent Marist Catholic school directed by a Board of Trustees. The Board oversees governance and the financial well-being of the school.

Curriculum

IB World School curriculum across Pre-K through 12: Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Pre-K–5, Middle Years Programme (MYP) for grades 6–10, and the Diploma Programme (DP) for upper grades; full continuum IB accreditation from Pre-K through 12; trans-disciplinary inquiry-based learning with a Marist Catholic identity.

Student Teacher Ratio

Small class sizes throughout Pre-K4 through Twelfth Grade

Higher Education Progression

100% graduation rate and college acceptance rate; college counseling supports admissions; DP core components and IB diploma preparation are designed to prepare students for higher education worldwide.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Notre Dame Academy supports social and emotional learning through a counseling program and a dedicated academic support framework. The Lower School emphasizes a sense of family and community, with families and teachers working together to help each student succeed. The IB program and the school's global perspective encourage self-directed, collaborative learning that fosters empathy and respectful interaction. Learning supports are provided to qualifying students, with Learning Specialists available across all grade levels and reading specialists in the Lower School trained in Lindamood Bell, Orton Gillingham, and LETRS. Daily Mass and opportunities to pray support students' emotional well-being in a faith-based environment. A Learner Support Team coordinates interventions for students in need.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Learning supports are provided to qualifying students. A Learning Specialist supports students across all grade levels. Reading specialists in the Lower School are trained in Lindamood Bell, Orton Gillingham, and LETRS. The Learner Support Team coordinates interventions for students with identified needs. The school differentiates instruction and provides accommodations where possible.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Non-native English language speakers must provide proof of English language ability using the TOEFL iBT. Other acceptable assessments may be considered.

Mental Wellbeing

Notre Dame Academy supports mental wellbeing through counseling programs as part of its academic development. The Learning Specialist and reading specialists support students' social, emotional, and academic needs. The Lower School emphasizes a family, community, faith, and daily prayer environment that supports emotional balance. The IB framework fosters resilience, empathy, and collaborative, self-directed learning, contributing to emotional growth. The Upper School counseling program provides college counseling as part of holistic student wellbeing.

Safeguarding

Health and safety policies are documented in the NDA Parent-Student Handbook. For safety, visitors and volunteers must sign in at front desks and wear badges. A school nurse is on site; medication requires signed parental forms; medications must be in the original container. Illness protocols require parental notification and that students not transport themselves home without authorization. The school follows CDC guidelines for health concerns and has a no-nit policy. Safety procedures include restricted access to campus, drop-off/pick-up rules, and supervision of after-school activities.

History

Founded in 2005, Notre Dame Academy in Duluth, Georgia opened on August 14, 2005 with 151 students and sponsorship from the Marist Order of Priests. It serves pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade as Georgia's only Marist Catholic International Baccalaureate school for all ages. Enrollment grew to over 200 by the end of the first year and 380 students in the second year. In May 2019, NDA graduated its inaugural senior class, and in 2020 all International Baccalaureate candidates earned the IB Diploma.

Community

Notre Dame Academy is Georgia's only pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade Marist Catholic International Baccalaureate school. With the IB program and a faith‑driven mission, the school emphasizes small class sizes and individualized attention. The student body reflects a 54% diversity rate, and students are known by name by teachers and the principal in a close-knit community. The faculty and staff hold advanced degrees and pursue ongoing education to support student growth.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Notre Dame Academy's School and Family Organization (SFO) is made up of parent(s)/guardian(s) and other family members who volunteer to enhance the educational environment by serving on committees. Committees include Room Parent/Guardian/Coordinator; Teacher Appreciation; Book Fair; Lower School Dance; Middle School Dance; Upper School Dances; Reimbursements/Partnership Programs; Used Uniform Sale; New Family Ambassadors; Catholic Schools Week; Adoration; and Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Prayer Group.

Facilities Overview

The school's campus serves Pre-K through 12th grade with dedicated spaces for core academics, arts, and athletics. Lower School Facilities include Stream LAB, Media Center, Production Studio, Art Room, and Music Room. Visual and performing arts spaces include Schroeder Hall Art Room, The George Center Art Room, Band Facility, and Dance Studio. Athletic facilities include Locker Rooms, Rosa Family Gym, Weight Room, and an Athletic Field. The campus address is 4635 River Green Parkway, Duluth, GA 30096.

Sports Facilities

Locker Rooms: Two spacious locker rooms designed for athlete preparation and team bonding. Rosa Family Gym hosts volleyball, basketball, and school events. Weight Room supports year‑round strength and conditioning for all levels. The Athletic Field is used by teams for flag football, soccer, and track and field.

Academic Facilities

Notre Dame Academy is an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. Lower School Facilities include Stream LAB, Media Center, Production Studio, Art Room, and Music Room. iPads and MacBooks are provided in each grade. Academics are guided by faith and service, STEAM, and global awareness. The school hours run 8:10 AM to 3:10 PM; Building Hours are 7:50 AM to 6:00 PM.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Performing Arts include music, chorus, theatre, and band; Lower School Music, Band, Theatre, Chorus, Guitar, and Piano are offered. Visual Arts and DP Arts programs include DP Visual Art, DP Music, and DP Film, along with Photography, Yearbook, and Film Studies. Co‑curriculars include Notre Dame Singers, Literary Team, Tri‑M Honor Society (music), and International Thespian Society. Notre Dame Academy hosts events such as Christmas Band Concert, Advent Cantata, and Evening of the Arts, including art shows and a film festival. The Film Program offers hands-on production, with Film Club and the annual Short Film Festival during Evening of the Arts.

Academic & Intellectual

Notre Dame Academy offers co-curricular activities designed to develop the whole child in conjunction with the Marist Catholic International Baccalaureate curriculum. Lower School programs include Art Club, Discover Club, Spanish Club, Chess Club, Angel Choir, and Peer Leaders. Middle School offerings include Chess Club, Basketball, Cross Country, Cheerleading, Track & Field, Volleyball, The Notre Dame Singers, National Junior Honor Society, Jr. International Thespian Society, and Peer Leaders. Upper School electives include Applied Design: Yearbook, Photography, Astronomy, Band, Film Studies, Film Theory, Intro to Piano & Guitar, Intro to Python Programming, Personal Finance, Studio Art II, Studio Art III, Team Sports, Theatre, and Weight Training.

Arts & Creative

The Notre Dame Singers perform as an extracurricular ensemble; Middle School also offers Band and Choir as electives. Lower School has weekly music classes and the Angel Choir. Upper School offers Theatre, Studio Art II & III, Film Studies and Film Theory, Photography, and Intro to Piano/Guitar as electives.

Cultural & Language

Spanish is supported through Lower School Spanish Club and an after-school Spanish Immersion program. The Multicultural Club operates in the Upper School to foster cultural exchange, and the Cinco de Mayo Workshop offers hands-on cultural experiences. These activities accompany the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme's focus on global perspectives.

Social & Hobbies

Extracurriculars include Chess Club, Book Club, Fishing Club, Lego Club, Gardening Club, Environmental Club, Astronomy Club, and Self-Care Club. There are drama and debate opportunities such as Mock Trial Club and The International Thespian Society. The Notre Dame Singers and Band provide regular performance opportunities.

Community & Service

Notre Dame Community Outreach is an extracurricular offering focused on service and civic engagement. Upper School and student-led clubs provide opportunities to participate in community outreach and volunteer activities. These activities foster service-minded leadership and give back to the community.

Leadership & Professional

National Junior Honor Society is part of the Upper School's extracurricular offerings. Peer Leaders participate in leadership roles across the school. The International Thespian Society recognizes theatre achievement and provides leadership opportunities in drama.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Team sports include basketball, cross country, track & field, volleyball, and cheerleading. Weight Training is offered as an Upper School elective. Creative Movement and Dance and Self-Care and other wellness-oriented clubs support physical and mental wellbeing.

Admissions

Step One: Online Admissions Application. Applications and supporting documents are submitted online via FACTS, the school's online application platform. The school is accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year, with mid-year enrollment handled through FACTS. Step Two: Submit Supporting Documents. Required documents include birth certificate, GA Immunization Form 3231, GA Dental/Vision/Hearing Form 3300, and school records; additional evaluation forms may be requested depending on grade level. A Principal/Administrator/Counselor evaluation may be requested, and teacher evaluations may be required for certain grades. Step Three: Admissions Decision. The school operates on rolling admissions and continues accepting applications until classes are full. Admissions decisions are released within 10 business days of a complete file; a principal meeting or an assessment may be scheduled if requested. Step Four: Follow Us. Updates and community news are shared on the school's social media channels (Facebook and Instagram).

Scholarships

The school offers needs-based financial assistance for Pre-K through 12 and uses a separate online FACTS application for financial aid. The financial aid process requires uploading supporting documents (such as tax forms) and includes an application fee paid to FACTS; awards are issued after review and verification and are separate from admissions decisions. The school partners with Georgia GOAL, a Student Scholarship Organization, to provide scholarship opportunities funded by state tax credits. Notre Dame Academy is authorized to receive Georgia GSNS (SB-10) funding for eligible students toward tuition.

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