Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York Continue Renewal, Announce Key Changes
By: The Good Newsroom
In a letter to pastors, principals, and school leaders, Sister Mary Grace Walsh, ASCJ, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools, emphasized the continuing nature of the work
The Superintendent of Schools Office for the Archdiocese of New York on Monday provided an update on its ongoing School Renewal Plan process, a faith-filled initiative aimed at sustaining and strengthening Catholic education across the archdiocese.
In a letter to pastors, principals, and school leaders, Sr. Mary Grace Walsh, ASCJ, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools, emphasized the continuing nature of the work.
“Just as Christ calls us to turn toward Him in faith, this season invites us to see God at work in our schools, creating new opportunities for growth and learning, and bringing hope to our students and communities.” Sr. Mary Grace Walsh wrote.
The renewal plan follows a school viability study conducted during the 2024-2025 academic year and is part of an ongoing process to ensure Catholic education remains vibrant, accessible, and life-giving for generations to come.
Key initiatives include:
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Strengthening Catholic Identity and Faith Formation: Schools will deepen the authentic Catholic identity of our schools by enhancing foundational roots of Catholic education, strengthening faith formation, and fostering closer collaboration between clergy and school communities. Renewing the relationship between parish and school life will ensure that students encounter Christ through prayer, the sacraments, and the daily witness of clergy and educators who accompany them in faith.
Innovation in Learning and Personalized Education: Schools will explore approaches combining personalized instruction with archdiocesan-wide assessments that integrate faith, virtue, and intellectual curiosity.
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Expansion of STREAM Programs: Seven schools will become STREAM education centers (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, and Math), providing hands-on, faith-centered learning experiences.
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Latino Engagement Institute: Collaboration with the Latino Engagement Institute through the University of Notre Dame will expand to reach more schools and families.
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Expansion of Special Education Services: Programs will be strengthened for students with diverse learning needs, including a continued focus on the John Cardinal O’Connor School and partnerships with districts and municipalities.
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Strengthening School Infrastructure: Planned capital investments will ensure schools remain safe, welcoming, and well-equipped centers of learning and faith formation.
As part of the ongoing plan, three schools will close at the end of the 2025–2026 academic year: Incarnation School in Manhattan, Sacred Heart School in Hartsdale, and Most Precious Blood School in Walden.
“These decisions were made after extensive reflection, study, and prayer, as we face significant challenges that make it impossible to continue our mission at these locations,” Sr. Mary Grace Walsh wrote. “It is our hope that all students will continue their Catholic school education in one of our other Catholic schools. Principals and enrollment teams will work with families in the months ahead to ensure a smooth transition.”
Two additional schools will undergo campus consolidations: St. Anthony-St. Paul School in Nanuet/Valley Cottage will consolidate from two locations to one campus at St. Anthony Parish in Nanuet, and Transfiguration School in Manhattan, which was announced earlier this year by the parish and school, will consolidate from three locations to two sites.
“We know that change can bring mixed emotions, but every step we take is part of a faithful journey of renewal and growth,” Sister Mary Grace Walsh wrote. “Just as Lent leads us to the joy of Easter, these moments of renewal invite us to trust in God’s providence and see His hand at work in our schools, our students, and our communities.”
The Superintendent of Schools Office will continue to share updates and resources with families as the renewal plan process moves forward.