Wednesday, February 6, 2019

Letter from the Superintendent of Schools Office



Dear Parent or Guardian:

As you may have heard, the Office of the Superintendent of Schools of the Archdiocese of New York announced the closure of seven Catholic schools located in the Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island, Dutchess, and Sullivan Counties. While your child’s school is not among them, we are sending this letter to you to keep you informed of these developments.

The schools closing include: St. Rose of Lima Elementary School and St. Brigid School in Manhattan; Our Lady Help of Christians Elementary School in Staten Island; St. Nicholas of Tolentine Elementary School and St. Joseph Elementary School in the Bronx; St. Mary Elementary School in Wappingers Falls, Dutchess County; and St. Peter's Regional School in Liberty, Sullivan County.

Unfortunately, despite the Archdiocese's best efforts to maintain the operational and financial viability of these schools, continuing to educate students in a building that is underutilized and/or in need of significant improvements has proven unfeasible.

We understand these are challenging times for many families, and I want to assure you that all students will be guaranteed a seat at a Catholic school within the Archdiocese of New York.
Directors of Enrollment will work with our current students and their families to help them transition into another appropriate Catholic school for the 2019-2020 school year. These are difficult but necessary decisions and, working together, we will ensure our Catholic schools are stronger than ever.

As a result of these changes, your school may be welcoming new students affected by these school closings. We know that you and your school community will do all you can to make these children and families feel welcome.

I ask that you, as part of our community of faith, join us in prayer as we continue to focus on strengthening our schools and elevating the spirits of the children in our care. Our doors are always open to answer any questions you may have, and additional information can be found on www.CatholicschoolsNY.org.

Sincerely,


Timothy J. McNiff, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools