We Are Holy Child.
About HCA
At Holy Child Academy, we partner with families to nurture curious, confident, and compassionate children, from toddlers through 8th grade.
Located on a peaceful, 14-acre wooded campus in Old Westbury, our independent Catholic school offers a warm, close-knit community where every child is known and valued. With a strong focus on academics, arts, athletics, and alleluia, or the “4 As”, we provide a balanced education that supports the whole child. Our innovative programs include Singapore Math, early foreign language instruction, hands-on STEM, and a wide variety of enrichment clubs. Rooted in the Holy Child tradition, students grow spiritually through daily prayer, monthly Mass, and meaningful service.
Holy Child is a joyful, values-driven school where your child will be challenged, supported, and inspired.
Message from Head of School
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To the Holy Child Academy Community and Families Exploring Our School,
It is with great pride and purpose that I welcome you to Holy Child Academy—Long Island’s only independent private Catholic school. For over 65 years, Holy Child has distinguished itself through academic excellence, moral integrity, and a whole-child approach that nurtures mind, body, and spirit.
At Holy Child, we believe in educating future leaders. We are deeply rooted in Catholic tradition, guided by a sense of purpose, and committed to innovation that meets the needs of today’s learners. Every student is seen, known, and valued as a unique and capable individual. From their earliest days on campus, our students are empowered to think independently, grow confidently, and lead with compassion.
Families who choose Holy Child can be assured their children will receive not only a rigorous academic foundation, but also one that shapes character, builds confidence, and prepares them for success in top-tier high schools, prestigious universities, and meaningful lives.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to instill knowledge, character, and confidence. Holy Child Academy is where future leaders are formed—grounded in faith, driven by purpose, and equipped with the critical thinking and interpersonal skills needed for a lifetime of impact.
As we look ahead, I am thrilled to share that Holy Child is entering an exciting new chapter. Beginning in Fall 2025, we will launch a Leadership Seminar Series and a Lacrosse Academy, broadening opportunities for student development both on and off the field. In addition, we are undertaking a major renovation of our campus library, transforming it into a vibrant center for STEM, Creative Language Arts, and Maker Space learning—bringing innovation and collaboration to the heart of campus life.
Whether you are a current member of our community or exploring Holy Child Academy for the first time, I invite you to experience a school where excellence is expected, individuality is celebrated, and students are prepared not just for the next step, but for life.
Warm regards,
Margaret Marchand
Our Goals at
Holy Child Academy:
Faith
Holy Child Schools foster a faith commitment that leads to a joyous personal relationship with God in addressing the realities of the world.
Community
Holy Child Schools live, learn, and worship as a dynamic Catholic community.
Love of Learning
Holy Child Schools offer an intellectually challenging, innovative, and creative program of study that develops academic excellence, encourages curiosity, and instills the joy of learning.
Compassion
Holy Child Schools promote Catholic social teaching in every facet of life as we carry out our motto, “Actions Not Words.”
Respect
Holy Child Schools create a learning climate based on trust and reverence for the dignity and uniqueness of each person.
Growth
Holy Child Schools promote the personal growth and development of all who participate in the life of the School.
Tradition
Holy Child Schools ensure the continuation and growth of Holy Child mission and philosophy in the School.
History of Holy Child Academy
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Our Founding & Early Years
Holy Child Academy, Old Westbury was founded in September 1959, when three local Long Island families purchased the former Bliss estate in Old Westbury and entrusted it to the Sisters of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus (SHCJ) The manor house was transformed into classrooms, offices, a chapel, cafeteria, and convent. The inaugural class comprised just 44 children taught by Holy Child Sisters, and the school quickly flourished, symbolizing a dream realized in faith and education
Our Heritage: The Society of the Holy Child Jesus
At the heart of our school’s mission is the rich legacy of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus (SHCJ), a Catholic religious community founded in 1846 by Cornelia Connelly. A visionary educator and woman of deep faith, Cornelia believed that every child is uniquely created in the image of God and deserves a nurturing, well-rounded education that develops the whole person — mind, heart, and spirit. The Holy Child Network of schools spans the globe with 9 schools in the United States and 30 Worldwide.
A Legacy in Education
As part of the global Holy Child Network of Schools, Holy Child Academy is deeply rooted in the educational philosophy of founder Cornelia Connelly. Her timeless principle — that students learn best when they feel loved and valued — continues to shape our approach to teaching and community life.
Guided by her founding vision of “Actions, not words,” we proudly carry forward the tradition of the SHCJ. At Holy Child Academy, we are dedicated to helping each child discover their unique gifts, grow in faith, and become compassionate, confident learners and leaders who are prepared to make a meaningful difference in the world.
Board of Trustees
Co-Chairmen
Thomas Gambino
Todd Higgins
Board
Christine Arnouse
Darci Frinquelli
Joseph Giunta
Matthew Krause
Jose Lopez
Antonio Madrid, MD
Denise Mattone, JD
Kate Morin
Peter Regina
Mary Rotondi
