Introduction

Since its founding in 1851, Notre Dame High School in downtown San Jose has stood as the premier school for young women of the Silicon Valley. Guided by the wisdom of Saint Julie Billiart, foundress of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, we have provided a relevant and exciting curriculum, teaching young women “what they need to know for life.”  Whether for the 1850s or the fast-paced 21st century, our mission does not change: we ensure our students are armed with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate and excel in their rapidly evolving environment.

READ MORE ABOUT NOTRE DAME

Founding

Established in 1851 by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in San Jose, then the state capitol, to provide education to the booming Santa Clara Valley.

School Crest

Symbolizing protection and faith, the trinity, the love of God and loyalty, the crest is a representation of the coat of arms of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur.

 

Sunflower

A symbol of St. Julie who believed we should "be like the sunflower that follows every movement of the sun and keep our eyes always turned towards our good God."

 

Mascot

The regent replaced the original Notre Dame High School gremlin mascot in the late 1990s. A regent is a person who steps up when a leader is needed.

 

St. Julie Billiart

Born in Cuvilly, France in 1751 Julie was the child of a poor shopkeeper whose deep faith led her to establish the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur along with her lifelong friend Françoise Blin de Bourdon.

 

Worship

St. Julie's perspective inspires us to recognize goodness in the relationships and experiences that shape learning for life. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph serves as our downtown place of worship.

 

Legacy

Notre Dame is among 130 schools in a global network sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame. Their commitment to educating young women and standing in solidarity with the poor is part of our daily approach to education.

 

Traditions

Students develop strong bonds of sisterhood through activities and events that have become well-loved traditions including freshman sleepover, the choosing of class colors and a mascot and the well-loved Spirit Week!