Overview and summary
Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart is an independent, Catholic college-preparatory school for girls located in Miami, Florida, serving preschool through grade 12. Founded in 1961 by the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, the school combines a global liberal arts curriculum with Sacred Heart educational traditions, emphasizing leadership, service, and interdisciplinary learning. Carrollton is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and the Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS), and it is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and the Network of Sacred Heart Schools. This overview provides verified details on academics, campus, admissions, tuition, and outcomes to support families in evaluating long-term fit.
Mission and educational philosophy
Guided by the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria, Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart aims to educate the whole person—intellectually, spiritually, emotionally, and socially. The school prioritizes:
- A faith-based community that welcomes students of all backgrounds while rooted in Catholic tradition.
- Academic excellence through a rigorous, college-prep curriculum enriched by arts, sciences, and global studies.
- Leadership development and service-learning opportunities aligned with social justice.
- Personalized attention in small classes to support individual growth and college readiness.
Academics and curriculum
Program structure and college preparation
Carrollton offers a structured, skills-focused curriculum from early childhood through high school, aligned with state and national standards. The high school program emphasizes:
- Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses across disciplines.
- Dual-enrollment options with local colleges for qualified upperclassmen.
- STEM, humanities, fine arts, and language programs, including Spanish and French.
- Advisory and mentorship systems to guide academic and personal growth.
Assessment and accreditation
The school maintains accreditation through SACS and FCIS and participates in ongoing curricular review to ensure relevance and rigor. Students engage with project-based learning, collaborative work, and reflective practices that prepare them for university and civic engagement.
Admissions and student support
Application process and criteria
Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart typically requires:
- Application form and fee.
- Academic transcripts from current and previous schools.
- Teacher recommendations and a personal statement or essay.
- Standardized test scores (optional, per recent policy adjustments), and an interview when possible.
Admissions decisions consider academic readiness, personal character, and alignment with the school’s mission. Financial aid and payment plans are available to qualified families.
Student support services
- College counseling and Naviance-based planning.
- Learning support and enrichment resources.
- Spiritual life programs and community service requirements.
- Counseling, health, and wellness resources.
Campus, facilities, and safety
Carrollton’s campus in Miami is designed to support learning and extracurricular engagement, with classrooms, science laboratories, art and music spaces, a library, and athletic facilities. The school follows local health and safety guidelines, maintains secure access protocols, and regularly reviews emergency procedures. Ongoing facility improvements aim to enhance collaboration, technology access, and student experience.
Tuition, aid, and financial planning
Tuition varies by grade level and reflects instructional, facilities, and technology costs. Carrollton offers need-based financial aid, payment plans, and occasional merit scholarships. Families are encouraged to review the latest tuition schedule on the school website and contact the financial aid office early to discuss options and deadlines.
Outcomes and alumni highlights
Carrollton graduates attend a range of colleges and universities, with many pursuing degrees in STEM, business, arts, and public service. Alumni often credit the school’s emphasis on leadership, service, and critical thinking for their continued success. Because the school is relatively small and mission-focused, outcomes are best evaluated in the context of long-term personal and academic growth rather than narrow metrics.
Considerations and next steps
Evaluating Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart involves weighing academic offerings, values alignment, location, and affordability. Recommended next steps include:
- Reviewing the curriculum and graduation requirements on the official website.
- Attending an open house or virtual information session.
- Contacting the admissions or financial aid office with specific questions.
- Visiting the campus (if feasible) to observe classroom culture and facilities.
Because policies, tuition, and program details may change, families should confirm current information directly with school administrators before making decisions.