The Immaculate Conception School (IC) embraces a changing world in which the demand for a strong academic education is greater than ever. Our vision for the future is one that readily acknowledges the emerging array of skills and experiences that students will need to thrive in this new world. With an eye to the future, we also continue adhere to the original mission our school: to communicate Cat
holic Christian values, provide a quality academic program, and develop an awareness, empathy, and respect for the needs of all people. Located in the center of the beautiful historic harborside community of Newburyport, Massachusetts, the IC provides students with the skills to become life-long learners in a safe, supportive, and creative environment. At the heart of our school is the profound belief that each child is a special individual created by God and endowed with natural intelligence, curiosity, and a yearning to learn and discover. We believe students learn best in a structured environment, with high standards and clear expectations. By promoting an enthusiasm for learning, encouraging students to reach their full potential, and helping them develop their moral compasses, our children become self-reliant individuals, confident problem solvers, and compassionate future leaders. The IC’s three-story brick building houses bright, large classrooms with the latest technology—equipped with SMART boards and iPads for hands-on collaborative learning. IC also has state-of-the-art computer and science labs; an art room; library and resource center; a newly renovated auditorium/gymnasium; an updated cafeteria that serves hot, healthy lunches; and outdoor play areas, including the Al Mozier Playground. We serve approximately 300 boys and girls from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade from fifteen surrounding communities in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. In pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, the student/teacher ratio is 15:1. In grades first through eighth, the average class size is 25-30 students. The IC fosters the spiritual and faith development of all students. At least once a month an IC classroom will plan a liturgy to be celebrated by the student body, faculty and staff, parishioners, family, and friends. In addition, the entire school gathers in the auditorium first thing every morning for daily prayer, announcements, and the Pledge of Allegiance. We are proud of the active parent participation and parent-teacher organization we have at the IC, which not only builds a strong home-school connection for our children, but allows us to offer a number of wonderful events throughout the school year including the Back-to-School Cookout, a Halloween Party, the Advent Program, the North Pole Express, the Annual Gala Event and Auction, the Book Fair, Field Day, an Ice Cream Social, the Spring Concert and Art Show, and so much more. Parents also volunteer their time in many ways, from organizing regular local and international giving opportunities, to field-trip supervision, to reading in the classroom. The IC is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. This accreditation attests to our continuing involvement in updating and goal setting, emphasizing both curriculum development and education in Catholic doctrine and values. We welcome and encourage students of diverse races, nationalities, and religions to visit and apply to our school.
