The Nardin Difference

Four schools, two campuses, one Academy.

Founded in 1857, Nardin Academy is the oldest independent, Catholic school in Buffalo, consisting of a co-ed Montessori, co-ed Lower School, co-ed Middle School, and a High School for young women.

Known within Western New York for academic excellence, Nardin Academy encourages life-long learning and helps students ignite curiosity and find their inner passion and innate potential.

We invite you to explore our four schools, and discover the Nardin Difference.

History & Tradition

Discover over 160 years of Catholic education.

Nardin Academy was founded in 1857 as the first Catholic Academy and free school in Buffalo, NY by Daughters of the Heart of Mary: Ernestine Nardin, Victorine Boucher, and Eliza Smyth. Endeavoring to help educate the children of the diocese, particularly girls, in a faith-based culture, the DHM opened both the Academy during the day and funded a free school for girls without means at night.

While it was officially named "St. Mary's Academy and Industrial Female School," the school was known in the community as "Miss Nardin's Academy." The name was changed to “The Nardin Academy” in 1917 and finally to “Nardin Academy” in 1951.

Throughout Nardin’s history the Daughters of the Heart of Mary have permeated life on campus, both as staff and as guidance on the Board of Trustees.

Following this example, Nardin Academy students develop their talents and cultivate their intellect, character and courage so that they too can make a difference in the world.