Schools of the Sacred Heart (Louisiana)

The Academy of the Sacred Heart was established in 1821 and is the second oldest institution of learning west of the Mississippi. It was founded under the direction of Saint Philippine Duchesne. It had five boarding students. In 1914, the academy renewed and expanded its charter with the State of Louisiana, allowing it to grant college degrees. In 1922, Sacred Heart was advertised as the Normal College and Academy of the Sacred Heart, having both an accredited high school and a board-certified college. The College of the Sacred Heart awarded its graduates with a Professional Elementary Certificate, allowing them to teach public schools in Louisiana. The school is the oldest, continually running member of the Network of Sacred Heart Schools in the world. It is also the oldest independent school in the Acadiana region. == Campus ==

The Schools of the Sacred Heart is located on 250 acres in Grand Coteau, St. Landry Parish, Louisiana. The campus includes the Shrine of St. John Berchmans. == Academics ==

Curriculum The Schools of the Sacred Heart follows the mission and charism of Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat and the Society of the Sacred Heart. Its educational program teaches "students to be individuals of faith, intellect, service, and justice". The academy offers a strong, diversified curriculum. The Lower School is divided into Primary (grades Pre-K3 through 4th) and Prep (grades 5th through 7th). Upper School includes grades 8 through 12. Lower and Prep School students study art studio, music, guidance, and art appreciation in addition to the more traditional subjects. Private music lessons are available. The Academy also hosts many international students (including Foreign Exchange students) in its boarding facilities and has an English as a Second Language Program. Accreditation and memberships The academy is accredited by the Louisiana State Department of Education Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS) and AdvencED. The Academy of the Sacred Heart is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and the Network of Sacred Heart Schools. The academy is also a member of the National Catholic Education Association. == Student life ==

Upper-grade students participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities including athletics, student community governance, performance art, clubs, and community service. The academy has an equestrian program with its Sacred Heart Stables, available for students wishing to bring their horses. The academy's athletics teams are called the Saints. The school colors are red and white. == Notable alumni ==

• Lucille May Grace (Class of 1919), Louisiana Register of the State Lands, 1931-1952; 1956-1957 • Salma Hayek, actress == See also ==