Founded by Friederike Füstin Auersperg, the Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen stands as a testament to faith and education. She entered the Dominikanerinnenkloster in Augsburg in 1869. She returned to Vienna in 1870 as Sister Maria Raimunda.
The Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen’s story began in 1874. Friederike dedicated herself to teaching. The school quickly expanded its offerings. It included a five-class Volksschule and a Bürgerschule. A Haushaltungsschule was also added.
The current school building of the Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen was built in 1896 and 1897. The demand for the school grew rapidly. The Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen enjoyed great popularity.
However, the rise of National Socialism brought challenges. In 1938, all Catholic private schools were forcibly closed. The Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen was no exception. The school building was used by the police and the Hitler Youth. It even served as a Russian military hospital.
Yet, the spirit of the Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen endured. In October 1945, the school reopened its doors. Volksschule, Hauptschule, and Realgymnasium classes resumed. The community welcomed 20 female students.
The Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen continued to evolve. A new type of Gymnasium was established. Due to space constraints, an internat was built between 1964 and 1966. The architect Gustav Peichl designed it. This new space provided classrooms and facilities.
The internat at the Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen included a gymnasium. It also featured a modern kitchen. A spacious dining hall served both internal and semi-internal students. A large sports field was added. It hosted many inter-school competitions.
The main building of the Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen was also renovated. Physics and chemistry rooms were built in the basement. The original festival hall was divided. It became a music room and a ballet studio.
The Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen’s school life returned. Theater performances, Advent celebrations, and sports festivals enriched the students’ experience. The school choir participated in district youth singing events.
In 1988, the school made a significant change. It began admitting boys. This started in the Hauptschule. It extended to the Gymnasium in 1989 and the Volksschule in 1990.
The Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen adapted to changing times. It offered a wide range of elective subjects. Upper school students gained more freedom. Smaller groups allowed for specialization.
The internat closed in 1992. It had provided a home for many students. The space was adapted for school use.
Today, the Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen continues to thrive. It offers a blend of tradition and innovation. The Schulverein der Dominikanerinnen has been running the school center since July 2008. The Dominikanerinnen sisters focus on faith and pastoral care. They offer various events. These include sermons, discussions, and spiritual guidance. The Volkschule der Dominikanerinnen stands as a beacon of education rooted in faith.