Newark, N.J., Jun 3, 2004 / 22:00 pm
The Archdiocese of Newark has decided to close or merge some of its 170 Catholic schools in the next few due to declining enrolments, which have led to higher tuition. School enrolment in the archdiocese is down from about 100,000 students several decades ago, reported Newsday.
The archdiocese’s New Energies Task Force for Schools studied how the schools can better educate their 56,000 students. It also set guidelines for a minimum enrolment of 200 to 225 students for each K-8 school, a balanced budget and a "Catholic and Christ-centered program."
The archdiocese announced its plan in the latest issue of the archdiocesan newspaper, the Catholic Advocate, just two weeks after it provided a list of parishes, which could be closed or merged. The schools report did not list specific schools slated for closure.
Last year, the archdiocese spent nearly $4 million of its $29-million budget subsidizing churches and schools.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Click hereOur mission is the truth. Join us!
Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.
Donate to CNA