All Saints parents concerned over school's future
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -“We’re excited to invite you to an important meeting...” typed Principal Traci Johnson to All Saints Catholic Academy parents, “...to discuss the future of Catholic education in the City of Albany.” She went on to mention how the meeting will be a great way for the community to get together and share ideas.
However, some parents like Shay Allen feel the notice brought more questions and concerns than answers. “There may have been like some changes. In my head, I was thinking like curriculum. Not thinking that we may not have a school.”
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany did not confirm to NEWS10 that any of its proposals include closing schools. NEWS10’s Anthony Krolikowski asked PTO President Kelly Barbour if the school community should have any reason to think All Saints could be closed.
She said it’s possible even though enrollment at the school is on the rise. “When I first started, there was probably about 50 less students here. We have grown in numbers since before Covid started and we have been sustaining ourselves.”
It’s not just All Saints. The Diocese confirmed that Blessed Sacrament and Mater Christi schools will also be included in the conversation. “The plan is for the three schools to work together and it’s already happening,” stated Director of Communications Kathy Barrans.
Her statement also mentioned that conversations will include:
- “…how to provide sustainable Catholic education…”
- “…current scenario and proposals being considered…”
“Any recommendations must go before the Diocesan School Board and the Bishop who will make the final decision.”
The school community is set to meet at the St. Vincent de Paul Parish on February 25 at 6 p.m. to, “...openly discuss the problem, the process, and potential solutions.”