Villa Maria School, located in North Stamford, is a coeducational Catholic school for children with learning disabilities. Founded in 1962 by the Bernadine Franciscan Sisters, Villa Maria provides children in kindergarten through grade 9 with a curriculum that includes small classes and individualized instruction.
Children are placed in classes by age rather than disability, so once their performance has improved, they can easily assimilate back into the school of their choice. All Villa Maria teachers are state-certified in special education and students throughout Fairfield and Westchester counties and beyond can attend. Students are encouraged to participate in numerous extracurricular activities including sports, chess and the annual school musical.
Founded in 1964, Our Lady Star of the Sea Church is located in the Shippan neighborhood of the city, and is operated under the Diocese of Bridgeport. In addition to daily masses, the church offers Bible study for adults, religious education for children and numerous social events. The congregation works together on various outreach programs, including visiting shut-ins, operating senior luncheons and assisting in fundraising efforts on behalf of the Malta House. Our Lady Star of the Sea also operates a private elementary school for children in grades K-5.