The Notre Dame Education Center, Inc. (NDEC), located in South Boston, is a community-based organization founded by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. NDEC/Academic Diploma Program offers two educational pathways for students, ages 16-23. The first is the opportunity to earn a high school diploma from Cathedral High School. This program is designed for older students who need to complete credits in order to earn a high school diploma. Late afternoon and early evening classes are offered for 36 weeks, and previous high school credits are accepted. It is important to note, that although this is not a Boston Public Schools’ diploma, it is nonetheless an accredited high school diploma. The second pathway offered by NDEC is the GED.

In addition to the Academic Diploma Program and GED, NDEC offers English classes for speakers of other languages, Adult Basic Education, and computer classes. We participate in the Notre Dame Virtual School, an on-line learning collaborative of five Notre Dame high schools. This instruction includes interactive dialogue, multicast presentations, and collaborative projects and activities. NDEC also provides support services through individual tutoring, job and college counseling, and job readiness skills training.

NDEC’s Job and College Counseling Program links students to job training programs, employers, and postsecondary education opportunities. In order to maximize the potential for future success in employment, each student takes an aptitude test that indicates what jobs are suitable to his/her personality, interests and skills. Additional assistance for students in the Academic Diploma Program in finding and obtaining a job is available through the Boston Private Industry Council and STRIVE (Supported Training to Reach Independence through Vocational Experience). Assistance and information for college options are provided by guest speakers from TERI (The Education Resources Institute, Inc.).

NDEC’s focus is to have students complete secondary school while becoming knowledgeable about behaviors and practices that will lead to healthy lifestyles and improved career options. Our small size makes it possible for the teachers, the Case Manager and the Coordinator to have significant interaction with the students. This frequent contact gives staff the insight and opportunity to motivate and support each student. Families are invited to all cultural and fundraising events held at NDEC, and are encouraged to participate in the planning of such events.

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must be ages 16-23. In order to be eligible for the Academic Diploma Program, students must be considered rising juniors or 11th graders, and must submit their high school transcripts.

After a student is deemed eligible, a first meeting is scheduled with the Case Manager at the school. In that meeting, students are informed of the program requirements and expectations. If the student feels that the school is a good match for him/her, a second meeting is scheduled to complete a placement test.

Interested students should call 617-268-1912.