School Overview

School History

Visitation of Our Lady School opened in 1965 under the direction of the School Sisters of Notre Dame and remained under their leadership until 1986 when Mary Kitterman became the first lay principal. The school has grown considerably since its inception and currently services approximately 450 students in PK-2 through 7^th grade. Visitation prides itself on the reputation of preparing students spiritually, academically, and emotionally for success in future endeavors. As a Catholic elementary school, Visitation strives to integrate the teachings of the Catholic Church with academic principles in developing each unique child. We provide a strong curriculum along with spiritual and moral nurturing. Visitation is dedicated to teaching children with varied learning abilities and has been at the forefront in recognizing and accommodating children with different learning styles.

Curriculum

Visitation of Our Lady Catholic School is Louisiana State approved and accredited by Cognia. A well-rounded curriculum is offered and emphasis is placed on individual needs and learning styles in an environment that stresses Christian values. Students are challenged to develop a firm foundation in lifetime skills.

School Characteristics

• Average class size is 25 students
• Gymnasium with theatrical stage
• Family-like atmosphere
• High standards of achievement and behavior
• Low teacher turnover rate
• Standardized test scores are within the national norm
• 12 staff members are former Visitation students
• School board assists in long range planning
• Faculty and staff frequently attend conferences and workshops to broaden their knowledge base
• Either the mother or father of 1/6 of the student population attended Visitation

Religion

• Religion is taught daily as well as incorporated into all aspects of the curriculum and the students' day
• Students attend weekly Mass with buddies
• Stations of the Cross during Lent
• Monthly Adoration
• Grandparent celebrations
• All religion teachers are certified or working toward certification
• Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered twice each year
• The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd taught in PK3 & PK4

Guidance Program

• Full time guidance counselor
• Parenting seminars
• Individual and small group guidance
• Anti-bullying / conflict resolution presentations

Technology

• Full-time technology director
• Campus wide computer network
• Internet activity is filtered for content
• SMART Boards in all PK - 7^th grade classrooms
• School website: http://school.vol.org
• Teacher webpages with homework link
• 1:1 Chromebooks in K - 7^th grades
• PlusPortals used in 1^st- 7^th grades
• Parents receive school announcements via email

Middle School Program (5^th - 7^th)

• Exploratory classes (Study Skills, Art, Computer, P.E., STEM)
• Extra-curricular activities and clubs
• Sports program
• Interdisciplinary teaching
• Before and after school tutoring
• 10 7^th grade students received high school scholarships to five area Catholic high schools

Early Childhood Programs

• Early childhood facility for 2 & 3 year olds
• Theme-based and developmentally appropriate curriculum
• Low student/teacher ratio
• PK2 - K have teacher assistants

Other Features and Programs

• Family-like atmosphere
• Celebration of Catholic Schools Week
• High standards of achievement and behavior
• Standards Based Curriculum
• Science Lab
• Before & After school care
• Landscaped prayer garden
• Catholic Youth Organization (CYO)
• Scouting programs
• Choir (4^th - 7^th grades)
• Girls Strong
• After school science program available

Parental Involvement

• School Board
• Co-Op (Parents' Club)
  • Quarterly meetings
  • Fundraisers
  • Sponsored activities include:
    • Living Rosary
    • Family Halloween Celebration
    • Christmas Events
    • Keep Christ in Christmas Contest
    • Family Bingos
• Cajun Festival committee
• Men's Club