A Proud Sponsored Ministry of the School Sisters of Notre Dame
What It Means to Be a Sponsored Ministry
At Notre Dame School of Milwaukee, being a sponsored ministry of the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND) means we’re part of something bigger — a shared mission, a common vision, and a deep, abiding faith. This meaningful relationship roots us in the Sisters’ steadfast commitment to education, social justice, and service, guiding and inspiring all we do as a school community. Their mission and charism shape our purpose, our daily work, and the culture that defines our staff and students alike.
Our Relationship with the School Sisters of Notre Dame
Sponsorship is a living, ongoing partnership that keeps the mission of the School Sisters of Notre Dame at the heart of all we do. Representatives of the Sisters serve on our board, offering wisdom and guidance, and approving major decisions to ensure their charism and values continue to shape our direction. While they do not vote, they hold reserved powers that safeguard the integrity of their vision within our work. In turn, we honor their legacy every day by bringing faith, learning, and leadership to life for our students — inspiring them to grow in faith, strive for excellence, and lead with purpose.
How Sponsorship Shapes Our Students’ Faith and Future
At NDSM, faith is more than tradition—it’s a living, guiding presence in all we do. Through prayer, sacramental preparation, and a curriculum rooted in the values of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, students grow spiritually as well as academically. Whether celebrating Mass together, exploring social justice through a faith-based lens, or honoring the legacy of Blessed Theresa, our students are nurtured in a community where faith deepens, purpose strengthens, and lives are shaped for meaningful impact.
Sacraments
While Notre Dame School of Milwaukee is not a parish school, our Catholic identity and SSND sponsorship shine through in every aspect of student life. Each week, students at each of our three campuses come together for Mass, with homerooms and student groups taking an active role in planning and leading the liturgy. We also prepare students to receive the sacraments and provide abundant opportunities for them to live out their faith through service — showing compassion, helping others, and making a meaningful difference in the wider community.
Stewardship
Our classrooms and curriculum are infused with faith and the SSND vision of education. Language arts and social studies explore societal challenges through a lens of justice and equity, while math and science consider data and discovery in light of Christian stewardship. Students deepen their faith with special celebrations honoring Blessed Theresa Gerhardinger on Foundation Day (October 24) and her Feast Day (May 9), reminding them of the Sisters’ enduring mission. At graduation, our top eighth-grade students are honored with the Blessed Theresa and Mother Caroline awards — a testament to their embodiment of SSND values in scholarship, leadership, and service.
Prayer
Many gatherings at NDSM — from student assemblies to staff meetings and board committees — begin with prayer, often invoking Blessed Theresa, Mother Caroline, Saint Francis, and Saint Augustine. We close each prayer by asking Jesus to live in our hearts forever, reinforcing our shared sense of faith and purpose. This spiritual rhythm grounds us and inspires our daily work.
How Our Staff Brings the SSND Mission to Life
At NDSM, carrying forward the mission of the School Sisters of Notre Dame begins with our staff. We are intentional about cultivating the faith formation of our faculty and team members so that every classroom, lesson, and interaction reflects the SSND charism. Through a dedicated program of faith development, staff members learn about the history, mission, and spirituality of the Sisters, taking time throughout the school year to deepen their understanding of what it means to teach and serve as part of an SSND-sponsored ministry. Professional development begins with prayer and shared reflection, helping staff see themselves as part of a larger mission rooted in Gospel values.
Challenge to Our Educators
We challenge our educators to be culturally responsive, to stand against injustice, and to create a school environment where every child is valued, loved, and empowered. Our teachers understand that their vocation is not only to impart knowledge but also to nurture relationships, model Christian values, and build a community of faith and learning. The SSND commitment to unity and transformation shapes how we collaborate and support one another, even through the challenges of this sacred work.
Blessed to Welcome New Role
In 2023, we were blessed to welcome Sister Marianne Kempa, SSND, as our first Vice President of Mission and Catholic Identity — a role that strengthens our spiritual foundation and keeps the SSND legacy alive in every corner of our school. Sister Marianne collaborates with students, families, and staff to cultivate a vibrant Catholic culture, infuse our practices with SSND values, and foster vital connections with the Sisters and other Catholic institutions. She guides mission-centered professional development, shapes our spiritual life, and challenges all of us to grow in faith and purpose. Her leadership enriches our school community immeasurably, helping us remain true to our identity as an SSND-sponsored ministry.