The recommendation was made to the Cardinal after consultation, research and review among archdiocesan officials and parish and school leadership. “The school’s continuing enrollment decline and increasing operational costs have left the Archdiocese no other choice but to close the school, “ said Chicago Catholic School Superintendent Dr. Nicholas Wolsonovich.

“While we regret having to close even this one school,” Wolsonovich stated,“ the fact that we are announcing only one closing is an indication that our retention efforts of the last year and the generous additional support of the Big Shoulders Fund are proving to be effective. Many children from Catholic schools that closed last year have been retained in surrounding schools, which has helped make those receiving schools more financially viable.” Wolsonovich added that his office has already put a retention plan in motion to assist St. Stanislaus’ students and their families to continue their education in a Catholic school. Wolsonovich explained that there are several area schools that are ready to welcome the students from St. Stanislaus.

“The faculty, administrators and families at St. Stanislaus Bishop and Martyr have put forth great effort to provide the highest level of Catholic education for their children and we are grateful for the excellent way they have used their talents and skills in support of this school,” Wolsonovich said. The Archdiocese remains committed to maintaining a system of Catholic schools that deliver the highest quality education in a faith environment.

In November of last year, the Office of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Chicago unveiled Genesis: A New Beginning for Catholic Schools, a strategic plan for enhancing the Catholic identity, academic excellence and vitality of Catholic schools in Cook and Lake counties. At that time, it was noted that significant challenges, particularly in the area of schools’ financial viability would be addressed by the Genesis program that includes a new model for the structure of school funding.

The Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Chicago play a critical role in the life of the community by providing academic excellence and faith formation for students of many races, faiths and backgrounds in elementary and secondary schools in Cook and Lake counties. There are 218 elementary and 40 secondary schools in the Archdiocese of Chicago. To locate a Catholic school in your area and learn more about Catholic education in Cook and Lake counties, visit the Office of Catholic Schools web page on the Archdiocese of Chicago web site at www.archchicago.org.