Mount Carmel Academy Louisiana

Mount Carmel Academy (MCA), an all-girls Catholic high school in New Orleans, Louisiana, is located in the Lakeview area at Allen Toussaint Boulevard, between West End Boulevard and Canal Boulevard. Established by the Sisters of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, who began educating young women in New Orleans in 1833, the school has a rich history. Mother Clare Coady founded the institution in 1916, introducing high school programs, while Sister Mary Angela Duplantis served as principal from 1926 to 1955 and Sister Mary Grace Danos from 1955 to 1980. Beth Ann Simno followed, and the current president is Sister Camille Anne. The academy's fight song reflects school spirit with its energetic lyrics. MCA has earned numerous accolades, including recognition as a Top 50 Catholic High School in 2005, 2006, 2010, and 2011, and has twice received the Blue Ribbon Award. The school also holds four Newman Society honor roll distinctions and has won multiple awards for innovation and safety. Athletically, MCA participates in the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA), with teams competing across various sports seasons. The program boasts 121 district titles, 35 state titles, and 37 individual championships since 1992. Additional clubs include dance teams, sailing, and other competitive groups. Notable alumnae include Kristen Nuss, a 2024 Olympian; Stephanie Langhoff, film producer; Valerie Martin, novelist; Robin Mathews, Academy Award-winning makeup artist; Barbara Menendez, musician; Amanda Shaw, fiddler; Stassi Schroeder, TV personality and podcaster; Francesca Roberts, actress; and Margaret Clark, writer. MCA faced significant challenges during Hurricane Katrina, suffering ...