The story of Mt. Alvernia Preparatory and Kindergarten begins in 1925, when the dedicated Franciscan Sisters of Allegany established our institution with a vision of providing exceptional Catholic education to the children of Montego Bay. Founded on the principles of faith and academic excellence, the school was named after Mount Alvernia, reflecting the Franciscan tradition of humility, service, and devotion to learning.
Throughout the decades, Mt. Alvernia has remained steadfast in its commitment to nurturing young minds while staying true to its Catholic roots. The school quickly became a cornerstone of the St. James community, establishing a reputation for producing well-rounded students who excel not only academically but also in character and service to others.
As the years progressed, Mt. Alvernia expanded its educational offerings and enrichment programs, developing a comprehensive curriculum that spans from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 6. The school's commitment to excellence became evident through its participation in Jamaica Cultural Development Commission competitions, where our students consistently earned recognition and numerous awards across various categories, showcasing their diverse talents and abilities.
Today, nearly a century after its founding, Mt. Alvernia continues to honor its rich heritage while embracing modern educational practices. Our extensive extra-curricular programs, including sports such as football, gymnastics, swimming, and chess, combined with character-building organizations like Cub Scouts, 4H Club, and Brownies, ensure that every student receives a holistic education that prepares them for future success.
As we move forward into our second century of service, Mt. Alvernia Preparatory and Kindergarten remains committed to the vision of the Franciscan Sisters who founded us - providing an educational environment where faith, academic excellence, and character development work together to shape the leaders of tomorrow.