Amsterdam schools to continue during ongoing study

In response to enrollment concerns at St. Mary's Institute and St. Stanislaus, the two Catholic schools in Amsterdam, the Diocese of Albany's Catholic School Office and Diocesan School Board have initiated a series of meetings.

The meetings include discussion of demographic and financial challenges, and aim to secure Catholic education in Amsterdam for the future, said the Catholic School Office.

"Demographics and enrollment trends indicate that we need to plan for the future," explained Sister Jane Herb, IHM, diocesan superintendent. "Our goal is to cultivate an ongoing dialogue with our Amsterdam families and parishioners to ensure that we have explored all options and that we are doing everything possible to meet the needs of our students. Our number-one goal is to continue providing an outstanding academic program in an atmosphere of faith."

During the most recent meeting, March 15, comments and suggestions from previous meetings were shared. In addition, a proposed plan of action was presented, and those in attendance were asked to complete questionnaires in order to ascertain their concerns.

At the conclusion of the meeting, it was determined that St. Mary's and St. Stanislaus will continue as two separate institutions next year, with each school dedicated to continuing its effort to increase enrollment and become financially solvent.

In the meantime, the Catholic School Office said, questionnaire results will be compiled and forwarded to the individual school boards, which will consider the possibility of creating one regional school in the future.

St. Mary's Institute's has 264 students in grades pre-kindergarten through eight, consistent with its enrollment last year. St. Stanislaus has 123 pre-K through eight students, down from 126 last year.

"From the positive energy at the meetings, it is clear that our families and parishioners are dedicated to continuing the tradition of Catholic education in Amsterdam," said Sister Jane. "We will seriously consider the input and concerns of those who attended the sessions, and look forward to working together to make sure that tradition is upheld."

(3/18/04) [[In-content Ad]]