Sagesse High School: A Premier Catholic Institution in Lebanon
Located in the serene suburb of Ain Saadeh within the Matn District, Sagesse High School is a distinguished private, co-educational Catholic institution. Situated approximately a 30-minute drive from Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport, the school serves as a beacon of academic excellence and spiritual growth under the slogan "Mary Mother of Wisdom."
The school operates under the guidance of the General Secretariat of Catholic Schools in Lebanon and is a member of the La Sagesse institution of the archdiocese of Beirut. Its commitment to global standards is evidenced by its international accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA), granted in 2009.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Established: 1992
- Location: Ain Saadeh, Matn District, Lebanon
- Enrollment: 1,087 students
- Accreditation: Middle States Association (MSA) since 2009
- IB Status: The first IB World School in Lebanon (since 1995)
- Languages: English and Arabic
- Current Rector: Fr. Joe Daccach
History and Leadership
Sagesse High School was founded in 1992 under the presidency of Fr. Sauveur El Khoury. A pivotal moment in the school's history occurred in 1995 when it became a member of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), marking its status as the first school in the country to offer this prestigious program.
The school's leadership has seen several transitions over the decades. Following Fr. El Khoury's initial tenure, Fr. Edgard Madi served as president until 2006, when he was appointed archbishop in Brazil. Fr. El Khoury returned to the presidency until 2007, when he was appointed a Monsignor and succeeded by Fr. Gabriel Tabet. In 2019, Fr. Joe Daccach assumed the leadership role and currently serves as the Rector.
Academic Curricula
To prepare students for success in both local and international higher education, Sagesse High School offers three distinct educational pathways:
- International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma): A globally recognized rigorous academic program.
- American System Program: Focused on preparation for SAT 1, SAT 2, TOEFL, and Advanced Placement (AP) exams.
- Lebanese Baccalaureate Program: The national curriculum of Lebanon.
Special Education Department
The school maintains a dedicated Special Education Department to support students with diverse learning needs. This unit caters to students with language-based learning difficulties—such as Dyslexia (difficulty reading), Dysgraphia (difficulty writing), and Dyscalculia (difficulty with math)—as well as non-verbal learning disorders, ADD/ADHD, and mild speech or psychomotor delays.
Admission to this program requires diagnosis by an approved independent psychologist and the school's own psychologist. The department also supports "slow learners" (those with borderline IQ) and students with epilepsy, ensuring they receive a broad education that prepares them for university life in Lebanon or abroad.
Campus Life and Traditions
The suburban campus is characterized by its green and white colors and a vibrant athletic culture. Students can participate in various sports, including basketball, association football, volleyball, and swimming.
Spirituality is woven into the daily routine. Every morning, following prayer, students sing the school's Alma Mater. This hymn was originally a brief song dedicated to the Virgin Mary, sung by the missionaries of Mother Teresa of Calcutta.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]School Overview Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Private, Roman Catholic |
| Campus Setting | Suburban (Ain Saadeh) |
| Student Population | 1,087 |
| Tuition | Approximately $7,000 (± £L 10,548,300) |
| Affiliations | Archdiocese of Beirut; MSA; IBO |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Sagesse High School unique in Lebanon?
Sagesse High School holds the distinction of being the first IB World School in Lebanon, having offered the International Baccalaureate program since 1995.
Which academic programs are available to students?
The school offers three main programs: the International Baccalaureate (IB Diploma), the American System (including SAT and AP prep), and the Lebanese Baccalaureate.
What types of learning disabilities does the Special Education Department support?
The department supports students with Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, ADD/ADHD, epilepsy, non-verbal learning disorders, and mild speech or psychomotor delays.
Who is the current head of the school?
The school is currently led by Fr. Joe Daccach, who holds the title of Rector.
Where is the school located?
It is located in Ain Saadeh, Matn District, Lebanon, which is about a 30-minute drive from Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport.