Catholic Diocese to Keep 6th Graders at Parish Schools

The Rochester Catholic Diocese has decided to keep 6th grade classes at parish schools.   It is a move that impacts hundreds of families in Monroe County.  "We could not be more thrilled at this decision," said Pastor Jim Schwartz, of Saint Joseph's Church & School.   Last year the board voted to consolidate.  The plan called for all 6th graders to attend Siena Catholic Academy on East Avenue.   "For children to be displaced would have been unsettling to them and their parents.  They get old soon enough," said Pastor Schwartz.  

"I'm glad that the Diocese was able to listen to the families," said Linda Wojciechowski, parent.  Wojciechowski has a fourth grader at St. Joseph's School and was raised in Catholic Schools.  However, over the years things have changed.  The Diocese has closed 15 schools and enrollment has dropped.   "When there is too much change it sends a message of indecision and it sends up red flags to parents to wonder if this is a stable environment for their children," said Wojciechowski.  Parents are relieved they won't have to worry about transportation for their kids.

Pastor Schwartz says this is a positive sign for local catholic schools.   "There have really been a considerable number of changes in catholic education over the years and we are really looking for stability."