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
