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Myth v Reality

Page 1

Inside Viz: TRUTHS WORTH KNOWING


FOR MORE THAN 190 YE ARS ,

Visitation Academy has been a vibrant part of the St. Louis independent Catholic school community. Since 1833, Viz has been known for academic excellence, strong values, and empowering young women to lead with confidence.

100% of students receive college scholarship offers

$

380K+ Average scholarship awards per student (FOR THE CL ASS OF 2026)


MYTH “Viz is too hard”

VIZ IS KNOWN FOR BEING ACADEMICALLY CHALLENGING —

and we wear that proudly. But our challenge doesn’t break students down; it builds them up. And really, what great future was ever built without a little hard work? Viz students don’t just get into college — they arrive ready to thrive. Through a culture of high expectations and support, Viz builds the

confidence, discipline, & independence students need to succeed in college and beyond.

“I wholeheartedly had an amazing high school experience. I met 76 girls that I get to call my sisters, and I met my friends for life. I also received a top-tier education from a few of the best teachers and mentors. Visitation Academy has thoroughly prepared me for my college education. I have found myself being able to navigate the workload and teacher expectations in college pretty well, and I believe the reason is the atmosphere in which I completed my high school education.” — VIZ GR ADUATE

TOO HARD? We say, just right. When students rise to the challenge, success follows.


WHILE MUCH OF WHAT YOU ’ VE HE ARD ABOUT VIZ IS TRUE ,

there are a few misconceptions we’d love to clear up — misconceptions that may be keeping you from

discovering all that Viz has to offer.

100% of students receive college scholarship offers

MYTH VIZ EDITION

vs.

REALITY

$

380K+ Average scholarship awards per student (FOR THE CL ASS OF 2026)


MYTH “Viz is too hard”

VIZ IS KNOWN FOR BEING ACADEMICALLY CHALLENGING —

and we wear that proudly. But our challenge doesn’t break students down; it builds them up. And really, what great future was ever built without a little hard work? Viz students don’t just get into college — they arrive ready to thrive. Through a culture of high expectations and support, Viz builds the

confidence, discipline, & independence students need to succeed in college and beyond.

“I wholeheartedly had an amazing high school experience. I met 76 girls that I get to call my sisters, and I met my friends for life. I also received a top-tier education from a few of the best teachers and mentors. Visitation Academy has thoroughly prepared me for my college education. I have found myself being able to navigate the workload and teacher expectations in college pretty well, and I believe the reason is the atmosphere in which I completed my high school education.” — VIZ GR ADUATE

TOO HARD? We say, just right. When students rise to the challenge, success follows.


$4,000, $6,000, $8,000

1 IN 5

Merit-based scholarships awarded annually to qualifying students

Students receive needbased aid

1.7M

$

Need-based aid awarded annually


MYTH “We can’t afford Viz”

For many families, cost is one of the first — and most important — questions in the school search process. While tuition may feel significant at first glance, Viz is

clear and comprehensive — an all-inclusive investment with no hidden fees or surprise costs. THAT INVESTMENT REFLEC TS THE EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE

students receive every day: smaller classes, individualized attention, built-in academic and social-emotional support, and opportunities tailored to each student’s strengths and needs. Rather than paying separately for extras or supplemental services, families benefit from a personalized environment designed to help students thrive.

WITH MORE THAN $1.7 MILLION in need-based aid awarded annually,

along with other opportunities like Viz’s Merit Scholarship Program and the Flaherty Family Foundation Scholarship Program, a Viz education is becoming accessible to more families than ever. What may once have felt out of reach can now be seen for what it truly is: a meaningful and realistic investment in your daughter’s future.

DON’T LET COST stop you from discovering the real value of a Viz education.

New Scholarship Opportunities!


16

25+

Visual and performing arts courses, plus theatre productions, choir, and much more

Clubs and organizations


MYTH “Viz is all studying, all the time”

True learning requires effort. At Viz, academic challenge is intentional — balanced by support, meaningful opportunities, and a CULTURE THAT HELPS STUDENTS THRIVE .

Viz students work hard, but they do far more than study. Academic rigor is balanced with athletics, the arts, clubs, leadership opportunities, and meaningful community involvement — giving students

space to explore their passions while remaining fully engaged in their learning. That rigor is paired with individualized support, ensuring students are not only challenged, but guided — building confidence, resilience, and balance along the way.

“The curriculum is academically rigorous, which supports its reputation as the best girls’ school in St. Louis and one of the best overall. I’ve also seen my daughter make deep connections with her friends at school. She participates in activities such as student government, sports, and theatre, and is growing into a well-rounded individual. The teachers are top-notch and highly supportive of both the students and parents.” — VIZ PARENT

At Viz, high expectations meet THOUGHTFUL SUPPORT.


7:1

13

Student-teacher ratio

Average class size


MYTH “Viz is too small”

Viz is small by choice—and that’s one of its greatest strengths. Our size creates space for each student to be TRULY KNOWN: BY HER GIF TS , GOAL S , AND POTENTIAL . At larger schools, it’s easy to blend into the background. At Viz, students are encouraged to step forward. In a smaller environment, relationships are deeper and more personal. Teachers understand how each student learns, where she excels, and where she needs support. Students have greater access to leadership roles, team participation, and meaningful involvement because opportunities aren’t limited to just a select few. Voices are heard. Contributions are visible. No one disappears in the crowd. A SMALLER SCHOOL AL SO FOSTERS ACCOUNTABILIT Y AND CONNEC TION .

Students are supported, challenged, and encouraged in ways that are individualized rather than one-size-fits-all. The result is not just strong academic preparation, but confidence, belonging, and the ability to stand out.

SMALLER DOESN ’ T ME AN FEWER OPPORTUNITIES . IT ME ANS MORE ACCESS , MORE MENTORSHIP, AND MORE IMPAC T.

When girls are seen and supported, they succeed.


75

20%

Average graduating class size

of the incoming freshman class is new to Viz (2026/2027 INCOMING CL ASS)


MYTH “ There’s no way I’d fit in at Viz as the new girl in the class ”

STARTING AT A NEW SCHOOL can feel intimidating, especially when

your classmates already know each other. At Viz, fitting in isn’t about changing who you are or catching up socially. It’s about being welcomed from day one, valued for exactly who you are, and quickly finding your place within a

community that will always make room for you. New students quickly discover an environment that meets them with openness, kindness, and genuine support. From the first day, friendships naturally take shape through shared classes, teams, and traditions, helping every student feel known and welcome. Intentional mentoring, small class connections, and a culture that values each voice ensure that no one blends into the background — every student is seen, supported, and confident in her place.

“Viz does it all to help others feel included, welcomed, and loved. Coming in as a freshman was scary because girls already had friendships and bonds made, but looking back, there was no reason to be scared. I’ve had nothing but a great experience.” — VIZ STUDENT

Viz will quickly become your SECOND HOME .


30+

Individual and Team State Championships


MYTH “Viz is an academic school, not an athletic one”

Despite being small by design, Viz is an exceptional place for students who want to excel both academically and athletically. IN A SMALLER ENVIRONMENT, TALENT AND EFFORT DON ’ T GET LOST IN THE CROWD — THE Y ’RE SEEN , VALUED, AND DEVELOPED.

Viz athletes gain meaningful playing time, step into leadership roles earlier, and build confidence through real responsibility. Comparable to other all-girl and independent schools in the region, Viz offers 12 team sports with a high rate of student participation, supporting both developing athletes and those competing at the highest levels. Regionally recognized programs, championship-winning teams, and graduates who continue to compete at the collegiate level reflect a strong culture of athletic excellence. In sports, as in life, it’s not always about the size of the stage — it’s about being in a place where you can

play, lead, and grow.

12

Team sports offered

75%

of students play at least one sport

50%

of students play two or more sports


THERE ’ S MORE TO VIZ THAN MEETS THE E YE— AND EVEN MORE WAITING FOR YOUR DAUGHTER .

We hope we’ve helped clear up a few misconceptions along the way. Now we hope you will come experience firsthand how

challenge, support, opportunity, and belonging come together to shape confident young women ready to thrive.


VISITATIONACADEMY.ORG | ADMISSIONS@VIZSTL .ORG


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