Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School Admissions Viewbook
Welcome to Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School! Thank you for taking the time to learn more about our school community. We are honored that you are considering NDCL as a place where your student can grow academically, spiritually, and personally. NDCL is a Catholic, coeducational, college preparatory school rooted in the charism of the Sisters of Notre Dame. Guided by our mission and core values, we believe that education is a ministry—one that nurtures the mind, strengthens faith, develops character, and prepares students to make a positive difference in the world. Choosing a high school is an important decision, and we are excited that you are considering becoming part of the NDCL family. We encourage you to experience our community firsthand by attending one of our upcoming admissions events or joining us on campus for an athletic competition, concert, theatrical performance, or one of the many other events that showcase the spirit and talents of our students. We look forward to welcoming you to NDCL and sharing with you what makes our school such a special place to learn, grow, and belong. God bless,
Mr. Chris Poulos Principal Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School
Brian Matz, Aerial Aspect Photography
Our Vision
Innovative Learning
Notre Dame Schools will engage students from preschool through high school in an exceptional Catholic education.
New lab for hands-on learning.
We will focus on loving, respecting, and educating all to discover and develop their God-given talents. We will challenge our students to respond faithfully to Jesus’ call to transform the world by consciously doing good and bringing hope to the hearts of all.
Our Mission Like Mary, who gave Christ to the world, Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School educates leaders who transform the world, as Jesus did, by living the truth in love.
Our Core Values Justice Respect Integrity Community Excellence
Strong Catholic Values Transformative experiences that inspire and nurture extraordinary growth.
Affordable Education 100% of students who apply are eligible for financial assistance.
e
Faith-Based Community
Supportive Environment
The NDCL student population is 89% Catholic.
NDCL has a 13:1 student-tofaculty ratio.
College-Bound Results The Class of 2026 earned over $24 million in college scholarship offers.
Focused Learning The average class size at NDCL is 17 students.
Academic Excellence Vibrant Campus 75 acres to explore natural beauty.
Student Success The Class of 2026 had a 100% graduation rate.
NDCL offers 14 dual enrollment, college-level CCP courses through the University of Mount Union.
Campus Ministry is Growing! Lion Athletes 4 Christ increases our opportunities to praise God while excelling in competition. Here at NDCL, we compete for His glory!
Campus Ministry Our Campus Ministry program helps students grow closer to God, make new friends, and discover the joy of helping others. From the first year of high school, students take part in fun and meaningful retreats. The Freshman Community Retreat helps students feel welcome and start their high school journey with faith and kindness. Later, retreats like Kairos, for juniors and seniors, bring students even closer to God and to one another. Students also live their faith by serving others. One special way is through the Labre Ministry, where students bring food and friendship to people who are homeless in Cleveland. Throughout the year, there are many ways to help—like volunteering at food banks, collecting supplies for those in need, or leading school service projects. Through local and national service trips, our students directly see the impact they can have as a representative of God’s love and provident care. Our Ministry also reaches younger students on our own campus. Through fun events like pep rallies, an Easter Egg hunt, and bonding activities between our 8th and 11th graders, NDCL students lead younger Lions to grow in faith and service. At NDCL, faith isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we do, every day. Campus Ministry helps students discover their gifts and use them to make the world a better place.
Legacy Schools–A Strong Partnership We proudly continue the mission of the Sisters of Notre Dame. For over 170 years, the Sisters have supported Catholic education that builds strong faith, academic success, and confidence in each student’s unique gifts. Cathedral Latin School also plays an important role in our history. When the Cleveland-based all-boys school closed in 1979, the Latin alumni were determined to continue their educational and faith-filled legacy. In 1988, they combined with Notre Dame Academy to form the co-ed Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School – NDCL. The Sisters of Notre Dame’s connection to NDCL is still strong today. Our 75-acre campus, once home to Notre Dame Academy, reminds us daily of their values. The Sisters are still involved—praying with us, mentoring students, and helping lead our school with love and faith. Because of the dedication of the Sisters of Notre Dame, the Men of Cathedral Latin, and 36 years of NDCL alumni, our students grow into thoughtful leaders who are ready to make a difference in the world. At NDCL, students receive more than just a great education. They become part of a caring, faith-filled community inspired by the Sisters’ example. We learn to be kind, work hard, and live with purpose.
Latin alumni continue to support Catholic education through their generosity. A recent addition to McGarry Gym is a beautiful new flag that lowers at the start of each athletic competition.
Athletics At Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School, sports are about more than just winning—they help students grow as leaders, teammates, and friends. With over 50 teams at the varsity, JV, and freshman levels, there’s a place for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned athlete or trying a sport for the first time.
in both, while leaning on their faith. Student athletes have a unique opportunity to be strong in faith and skill.
NDCL teams compete in one of Ohio’s top athletic conferences and have earned many championships thanks to hard work, teamwork, and school pride. But we believe success isn’t just about trophies. Our athletes learn to balance sports with school and become stronger
At NDCL, we believe in leading with heart and humility. Our athletic program helps students challenge themselves, build character, and become the best they can be—in sports, in school, and in life.
Coaches support students on and off the field, helping them grow in skill, responsibility, and confidence. Many NDCL graduates continue both their sports and studies in college.
19
50
76%
Number of State Championships
Teams at varsity, JV, and freshman levels
Percentage of NDCL students in at least 1 sport
State Championship appearances
Sports programs
2026 graduates competing at the collegiate level
26
29
15
Academics Our classes are designed to help students grow, learn, and reach their full potential. Students can challenge themselves through a wide range of college-prep courses, including 13 Advanced Placement (AP) and 14 College Credit Plus (CCP) offerings, with opportunities to earn college credit through our partnership with the University of Mount Union. Our flexible school day includes an Enhanced Learning Block, giving students dedicated time for extra help, collaboration, and deeper exploration. Nine academic coaches provide support across all subjects, while the SND Learning Commons helps students strengthen research and information literacy skills. College preparation continues with App Fest, a two-day program where rising seniors work on applications and essays and connect with college recruiters. With small class sizes, caring teachers, and opportunities across STEM, world languages, fine arts, and humanities, NDCL students discover their strengths and build the skills to thrive in college and beyond.
Our teachers connect emerging skills with real-world applications. In Studio 222’s Digital Design class, Sean Morad’s winning design for Chardon Township’s new welcome sign was unveiled on WEWS-TV, showing how student work can extend far beyond the classroom.
Performing Arts Our Performing Arts Program invites students to take center stage—whether they sing, play an instrument, act, or want to explore something new. With opportunities like Stage Band and Marching Band, students bring energy and school spirit to life through music, performing at games, concerts, and community events. Our dynamic choirs perform throughout the year, showcasing a wide variety of musical styles and helping students grow in skill and confidence.
For something creative and fun, the Ukulele Class offers a relaxed way to learn music and perform with friends. Our Theater Program is another highlight of student life, featuring a full-scale Fall Play and a show-stopping Spring Musical that gives students a chance to shine on stage or behind the scenes. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just curious to try something new, NDCL’s performing arts program is a place to grow, connect, and express yourself.
Fine Arts Our Fine Arts Program empowers students to explore their creativity and develop their artistic talents in meaningful ways. Through our dedicated School of Art, students have access to a wide range of courses in drawing, painting, ceramics, digital art, and more—all taught by passionate, experienced instructors. NDCL artists regularly earn top honors in regional and state art competitions, a reflection of their hard work, talent, and the strong foundation built in our classrooms.
One of the highlights of the year is our Fine Arts Night, where the entire NDCL community comes together to celebrate student creativity. The event transforms our campus into a vibrant gallery, showcasing artwork from students of all grade levels. Whether students dream of a future in the arts or simply want to express themselves in new ways, NDCL’s Fine Arts Program offers the inspiration, guidance, and opportunities to make it happen.
Affordable Exceptional Catholic Education Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School provides an exceptional Catholic education with clear, transparent tuition. We recognize that education is a significant investment and work closely with families to identify available financial assistance and make an NDCL education accessible.
We help families explore all available sources of financial support, including merit scholarships, EdChoice, LionSGO, Angel Scholarship Fund, and FACTS Grant & Aid. Support from local businesses and alumni, along with responsible long-term strategic financial planning, helps NDCL provide a strong, sustainable Catholic education.
Tuition at NDCL includes:
We also do not require student fundraising as part of the NDCL experience.
•
Instruction, textbooks, workbooks, supplies, research, and technology resources
•
Nine academic coaches for support and resources to help students exceed their potential
•
Sports registration fees, seasonal spirit wear, strength and conditioning support, and sports medicine resources
•
A 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio and access to more than 100 clubs, sports, and activities at no additional cost
The positive aspects of attending NDCL are the welcoming community, everyone wanting to see you succeed and help you grow, and knowing everyone is trying to build each other up. Kate Enright ‘26
100% of students who apply are eligible to receive state or school-sponsored assistance. Rather than inflating tuition and offering large discounts, NDCL provides straightforward pricing and meaningful financial assistance from the start.
Admissions Information 8th Grade Admissions Checklist • Shadow an NDCL student • Attend an Open House • Attend an NDCL Athletics Contest and/or a Performing Arts Production • Complete the Fall Placement Exam to qualify for a Merit Scholarship • Follow NDCL on social media • Complete FACTS Grant and Aid • Apply to NDCL Important Dates: NDCL Fall Open House October 6 and 28, 6-8 p.m. Placement Exams October 31 8:30 a.m. | 10:30 a.m. | 1 p.m. November 4 5 p.m. November 7 8:30 a.m. | 10:30 a.m. NDCL Application Opens January 4, 2027
NDCL is very community oriented. Everybody makes you feel so comfortable walking through the doors every day. The staff is so kind, and they make you feel like such a special person when talking to you. Classrooms are exceptionally positive, with a great learning environment for both the teachers and students. Maggie Kane ‘26
At NDCL, we are guided by our mission to “transform the world, as Jesus did, by living the truth in love,” and offer students an affordable, exceptional Catholic education.
Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School 13000 Auburn Road Chardon, OH 44024 440.286.6226 ndcl.org @ndcl_school /NotreDameCathedralLatin