Catholic Education in the Bronx Continues to Shrink as Three Schools Announce Closures
The options for Catholic education in the Bronx and surrounding areas continue to shrink as three longstanding schools announced plans to close at the end of the academic year.
Background
In February 2023, the Archdiocese of New York announced the decision to shut down 12 schools citywide, including six in the Bronx. This recent development marks the latest chapter in a series of closures that have affected the Catholic education landscape in the region.
School Closures
The three schools set to close are All Hallows High School, established in 1909, Sacred Heart School in Highbridge, which has operated since 1926, and Immaculate Conception School in Melrose, since 1854.
All Hallows High School
All Hallows High School, a private (non-archdiocesan) school near Yankee Stadium, announced it will graduate its last class of students in June after a recent fundraising campaign failed to pull it back from the financial brink. The school cited "decades of financial distress and an aging building in need of systemic rehabilitation and upgrades" as the main reasons for the "painful but necessary" decision. Families were informed on January 16, and both All Hallows staff and the Archdiocese pledged to help families enroll in other Catholic schools.
Sacred Heart School and Immaculate Conception School
Sacred Heart School in Highbridge and Immaculate Conception School in Melrose, both affiliated with the Archdiocese, also announced closures on January 17. Brilla Schools charter network will take over both buildings and give enrollment lottery preference to current students and families of Sacred Heart, Immaculate Conception, and any other schools that are closing.
Conclusion
The closure of these three schools marks a significant blow to the Catholic education community in the Bronx and surrounding areas. While the decision is a difficult one, the schools’ leadership and staff are committed to supporting students and families through this transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the reasons for the closures?
A: All Hallows High School cited "decades of financial distress" and an aging building in need of rehabilitation, while Sacred Heart School and Immaculate Conception School were affiliated with the Archdiocese, which announced a decision to shut down 12 schools citywide.
Q: What will happen to the students and families affected by the closures?
A: All Hallows staff and the Archdiocese have pledged to help families enroll in other Catholic schools, and Brilla Schools will provide an optional Catholic extended-day program for students affected by the closures.
Q: What is the timeline for the closures?
A: All Hallows High School will close in June, while Sacred Heart School and Immaculate Conception School will close at the end of the academic year.
Q: What is the next step for the students and families affected by the closures?
A: Families are encouraged to reach out to the schools and the Archdiocese for support and guidance on enrolling in other Catholic schools or exploring other educational options.
