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Welcome to Notre Dame Elementary & Preschool

Learning that Lights the Way.

Notre Dame Elementary & Preschool is a co-ed Catholic school in Belmont, CA, serving preschool through 8th grade in a caring, supportive community. Guided by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, we inspire joyful learning, strong character, and growth of mind, heart, and spirit.

THE NDE EXPERIENCE 

NDE Principal

Welcome to Notre Dame Elementary & Preschool!

One of the greatest gifts of being part of Notre Dame is the strong sense of community that defines our school. Each day I see students greeted by name, teachers who know their students deeply, and families who partner with us to help every child grow. It is a place where children feel safe, supported, and inspired to become their very best selves.

At Notre Dame, our mission is rooted in the educational tradition of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and the Hallmarks that guide our work. We are committed to helping students grow not only academically, but also in faith, character, compassion, and leadership. Our teachers challenge students to think critically, be curious, and approach the world with both confidence and kindness.

As a principal, I feel incredibly fortunate to witness the daily moments that make this community special—students helping one another, teachers creating engaging learning experiences, and families coming together to support our shared mission. These experiences help shape children who are thoughtful learners and caring members of their community.

Notre Dame is truly a place where children are known, valued, and encouraged to grow in mind, heart, and spirit. I invite you to explore our website and learn more about what makes our school such a special place for students and families.

Warmly,
Sara Maennle
Principal

 

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teacherteachingstudents

Discover the rich legacy of Notre Dame Elementary, founded in 1851 by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. For over 170 years, we have been committed to providing a faith-centered education that nurtures academic excellence, spiritual growth, and a strong sense of community. Our traditions honor the past while inspiring each new generation of students to live with purpose, integrity, and compassion in today’s diverse world.

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Learn More about Mission & Philosophy
Marystatue

Discover the rich legacy of Notre Dame Elementary, founded in 1851 by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. For over 170 years, we have been committed to providing a faith-centered education that nurtures academic excellence, spiritual growth, and a strong sense of community. Our traditions honor the past while inspiring each new generation of students to live with purpose, integrity, and compassion in today’s diverse world.

Explore Our History

Learn More about History & Tradition
teachers

Our faculty and staff are the heart of Notre Dame Elementary & Preschool. Each member of our team brings dedication, compassion, and deep expertise to their role—creating a nurturing environment where every child is known, supported, and challenged to thrive. Grounded in our mission and the Hallmarks of a Notre Dame Learning Community, our educators work in close partnership with families to guide students academically, socially, and spiritually from preschool through eighth grade.

View Our Team

Learn More about Faculty & Staff
nde graduates

At Notre Dame Elementary & Preschool, our Portrait of a Graduate outlines the core qualities we strive to instill in every student—from critical thinking and compassion to resilience, leadership, and a deep sense of justice. Grounded in Catholic values and the Hallmarks of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, our graduates are prepared to lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and continue learning for life.

See the Portrait

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students at mass

At Notre Dame Elementary & Preschool, we teach and live the values of Catholicism while warmly welcoming families of all faiths and backgrounds. Rooted in the tradition of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, our students grow through shared experiences in prayer, service, and reflection—developing a strong moral foundation, empathy for others, and a deep sense of community.

Our inclusive faith environment encourages respect, spiritual curiosity, and a true sense of belonging for every child.

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Learn More about Rooted in Faith, Open to All

What Sets Us Apart

At NDE, learning goes beyond the classroom. Our students thrive with:
Buddy programs fostering leadership & belonging
Service learning building compassion & responsibility
Makerspace & hands-on learning from PS to 8th grade
Inclusive faith formation welcoming all backgrounds
Small student-to-teacher ratios & strong relationships
Enrichment programs: Spanish, music, electives, Power Hour & more

NDE is a special place. Our daughter, who is new, is thriving — her self-esteem is soaring because she feels truly ‘seen’ by teachers, peers, and staff.  - rising 6th grade parent (2025-2026)

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