Religious education at Notre Dame Catholic School occurs in two major areas: the study of the Catholic faith and integrating faith experiences into the life and education of each student. Besides classroom instruction in religion, liturgical preparation and Mass participation is part of our school program. Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, all school liturgies, and opportunity to participate in Mass are part of the spiritual life of the school.
Daily religion class for grades K-5
Prayer every morning + before meals & snacks
Practicing Catholic students prepare for and receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation & Communion
Kindergarten Thanksgiving prayer service
Fifth grade Passion Play
Catholic Schools Week celebration
All K-5 students attend weekly Mass
All 3rd - 5th graders are trained as altar servers
Grades rotate to lead & help celebrate Mass as readers, servers, cantors, and choir members
Attend Mass on Holy Days of Obligation, plus Ash Wednesday
Host special Mass Celebrations such as May Crowning and Grandparents Day
Teachers and staff reinforce values taught at home
Opportunities for at-home family faith formation provided as well as during Advent and Lent
Families of all faith backgrounds invited to participate in all school and church events, including Mass attendance
Service projects - both locally and for our global community
Visit friends at local nursing home each month, sharing in fun activities together
Send cards to local Hospice patients
Prayer is our way of communicating with God. We pray to praise God and thank Him and tell Him how much we love Him. We pray to enjoy His presence and tell Him what is going on in our lives. We pray to make requests and seek guidance and ask for wisdom. Each grade level has a variety of prayers, which can be found in the Notre Dame Family Handbook.
The Archdiocese of Dubuque’s Office of Catholic Schools recognizes outstanding achievement in Catholicity, Academics, and Operational Vitality through its annual Spirit of VISION Award. In 2025, Notre Dame Catholic School received the award for Catholicity, recognizing our strong commitment to offering a Christ-centered, faith-filled education.