Academics

Upper School

The Integritas Institute

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Leadership Through Wellness

In Latin, integritas translates to "wholeness," "soundness," or "completeness." In classical Latin, integritas was often used to describe health and vitality.

At our all-girls Upper School, The Integritas Institute’s Leadership Through Wellness curriculum blends this classical concept with high school life, empowering ambitious young women to understand their total well-being as the foundation for effective leadership and lifelong success. Through weekly guidance classes, group discussions, experiential learning, reflection, and leadership opportunities across a range of interests, students develop the habits and self-awareness that allow them to succeed.

Through this built-in program, girls learn to pursue their goals while prioritizing their well-being. They discover that true balance and good leadership begin from within.

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Integritas Institute Goals

Lacordaire girls already expect a lot from themselves. The Integritas Institute asks a different question: What does it take to realistically sustain excellence?

Four years, one continuous journey: Girls build self-awareness, healthy habits, perspective, and leadership skills that deepen as they move through high school.
Leadership through self-knowledge: Girls learn to recognize their strengths and lead in ways that feel authentic to them.
Wellness for real life: From self-advocacy and digital boundaries to relationships, balance, and everyday habits, girls develop practical tools for taking care of themselves and leading by example.
Ambition without burnout: Girls learn how to pursue high standards while developing the resilience, perspective, and habits needed to sustain such excellence over time.
Preparation for life beyond Lacordaire: The program builds the confidence, adaptability, and self-knowledge young women need to navigate college, careers, relationships, and the transitions that come with young adulthood.

Cura ut valeas: Take care of yourself so that you may be strong

Students learn that long-term success requires caring for their own well-being first, equipping them with the balance to chase ambitious goals and become grounded, effective role models.

Wellness Skill	How It Translates to Leadership
Self regulation	Staying calm under pressure and making clear choices
Growth mindset	Transforming leadership from a position of authority into one of facilitation and growth
Stress management	Staying focused and steady in stressful situations
Physical health (sleep, food, movement)	Having the energy to work hard while still feeling physically well
Clear communication	Getting your point across effectively or running a project smoothly
Teamwork	Working well with others, building trust, and backing up your teammates
Resilience	Learning from mistakes instead of getting stuck, and trying again

Opportunities to Lead, Explore, and Serve

From leading a student organization to exploring a career, conducting university-level research, or serving communities near and far, Lacordaire girls are encouraged to step forward, try something new, and develop a strong sense of diretion.

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25+ Student Clubs

Explore your interests, find your people, and take on leadership through more than 25 student-led clubs.
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Advanced STEM Academy

Go deeper into STEM through hands-on learning, real-world research, field experiences, and connections with women working in STEM careers.
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Student Government

Shape student life by representing your classmates and planning the traditions, events, and experiences that bring our community together.
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International Day of the Girl

Raise your voice alongside girls around the world through the United Nations’ annual International Day of the Girl.
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Junior Internships

Step beyond the classroom and explore potential careers through hands-on experiences with professionals during your junior year.
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Montclair State University Research Symposium

Develop college-level research skills while working alongside university experts and completing an in-depth senior research project.
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Peer Mentors

Support your peers, lead conversations, and help build a school culture where every student feels supported and connected.
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Senior Mission Trip

Serve others, experience new communities, and strengthen class bonds through a senior-year service experience.
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Dominican Preaching Conference

Gather with students from other Dominican schools across the country to explore faith, service, community, and the power of preaching.
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Nellie Nolan College Placement Program

Navigate the college process with individualized guidance, thoughtful advising, and support from application through enrollment.
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International Coalition of Girls Schools

Connect with girls’ schools around the world through leadership opportunities, shared learning, and participation in international programs.
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10th Grade Student-Designed Service Project

Turn ideas into action by researching, planning, and leading a service project designed to address a need in the community.
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We’re Better Together Conference

Join students from independent schools for conversations around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
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