St. Ignatius of Loyola School in Concord Hill will close at the end of the 2025-26 school year, the archdiocese announced March 6.
The school, founded more than 150 years ago and located in Warren County, has experienced decreased enrollment and a deficit that has required more than 50% of its annual Sunday offering to support school operations.
Despite efforts to increase enrollment and fundraise, the parish will also require funds from their strategic reserves to complete this school year, as enrollment continues to decline. According to the archdiocese, 37 students are enrolled this school year.
Because of continued enrollment and revenue declines and the need to draw from parish savings, the school requires permission from the archdiocese to extend teacher contracts for the 2026-27 school year. Permission has not been granted, and St. Ignatius of Loyola School will close at the conclusion of this school year.
Archbishop Mitchell T. Rozanski issued a decree in January 2025 stating that any parish that spends 5% or more from savings or 50% or more from annual Sunday offertory to operate its parochial school must receive his approval before offering contracts to teachers and principals.
“Despite our concerted efforts to make everyone in the parish aware of these factors, our enrollment indicates a continued downward trend for the next school year,” St. Ignatius pastor Father Dennis Doyle wrote in a letter to parish and school families. “Know that I grieve with you, even as we must face the future and the changes that come with it. While I am sad to make this announcement, I am hopeful that our community will respond with grace and strength in support of the children and families who are impacted.”
The archdiocese said it will provide placement assistance to St. Ignatius faculty and staff, as well as enrollment assistance to families who wish to place students into other Catholic elementary schools. More information about Catholic education and scholarship opportunities can be found at archstlcatholicschools.org.
“I am profoundly grateful to all those who have supported the school throughout the years, particularly the parents, administrators and teachers who have helped to raise children in our Catholic faith,” Archbishop Rozanski said in a statement. “I ask you to join me in keeping all those who are impacted by this decision in your prayers.”
