Visit the site of a Vatican-recognized miracle and the second-oldest school in the United States west of the Mississippi River. Set on 225 picturesque acres in Grand Coteau, Louisiana, the Academy of the Sacred Heart has provided quality Catholic education to girls for two centuries. Founded in 1821, under the direction of Saint Philippine Duchesne, the Academy has remained in continuous operation through fire, epidemic, and war. Unearth these stories from the past while visiting the Academy’s museum and cemetery. Also, discover the institution’s history as a “colored school” for former enslaved persons, dedicated to transitioning students to freedom and self-sufficiency. Beyond the beautiful formal gardens and alley of oaks lies a fascinating history waiting to be told.
When you tour the Academy, you’ll visit Le Petit Musée, a museum dedicated to the history of the school, the Shrine of St. John Berchmans, where novice Mary Wilson was miraculously healed by then Blessed John Berchmans, and the extensive gardens and grounds. In continuous operation for 200 years, the Academy educates girls from one year old to 12th grade. In 2006, it was joined by a brother school, Berchmans Academy. The two schools, founded upon the mission and charism of Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat and the Society of the Sacred Heart, seek to educate their students to be individuals of faith, intellect, service, and justice.
