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Officials at Christian Brothers Academy in Albany and LaSalle Institute in Troy have cautioned that discussions of a possible merger between the two are only in the preliminary stages, although a small group of board members from both schools has "informally discussed" the idea and will soon report to the full boards.

A letter posted on CBA's website last week and mailed home to parents of students explained that the recent downturn in the U.S. economy has presented "significant challenges" to private schools, particularly Catholic schools.

"Enrollments in all private schools are down - and that's been going on over the past six years," confirmed Tish La Torre, director of LaSalle's Office of Institutional Advancement.

LaSalle currently enrolls about 440 students in grades 6- 12; CBA, about 400.

Ms. La Torre noted that, since both boys' schools are run by the Christian Brothers, it makes sense for them to look at how they might at least consolidate some services. For instance, both already use the same food service supplier.

CBA principal James Schlegel agreed that "trustees see things most members of the school community might not see" - among them, the fact that "everything in the world is getting more expensive."

However, he told The Evangelist that releasing the letter was simply a way to end speculation and rumors about an overall merger. If such a merger were to occur, he said, it would "not be done in very quick fashion."

The letter stated that the two schools' boards will shortly begin formally exploring "the opportunities available to us," and "provide a detailed report of their findings for our consideration."

According to LaSalle and CBA officials, no date for that report has been set.

Both schools are well-known for academics, athletics and development efforts. In discussing a merger, Mr. Schlegel said a primary concern will be "to share what we do well - a case of 'strong meeting strong.'"[[In-content Ad]]

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