NEW YORK – As Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York continue their commitment to providing a faith-filled and academically excellent education, Superintendent of Schools Sister Mary Grace Walsh, ASCJ, Ph.D. has announced key updates from the ongoing School Viability Study (SVS)—an initiative aimed at ensuring the long-term strength and sustainability of Catholic education.

Rooted in the National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools (NSBECS), the study represents an ongoing prayerful discernment process to uphold Catholic schools’ mission while responding to the evolving needs of students and families.

Following a careful evaluation of school sustainability benchmarks, the following schools will close at the end of the 2024-25 academic year:

• Our Lady of Refuge (Bronx)
• St. Lucy School (Bronx)
• St. Mark the Evangelist (Manhattan)

“We recognize the deep emotional impact of these closures on students, families, faculty, and parish communities who have given so much to these schools,” said Sister Mary Grace Walsh, ASCJ, Ph.D. “However, even in moments of challenge, we trust that God is leading us toward a renewed future—one that strengthens our mission and better serves the needs of students and families throughout the archdiocese.”

While these closures mark a transition, they are part of a more significant commitment to renewal. This process will allow the Superintendent of Schools Office to strengthen existing schools, enhance educational excellence, and ensure that Catholic education remains a beacon of faith and opportunity for future generations.

“As we journey through this Jubilee Year, a time of renewal and hope, we are reminded that Christ is always opening new doors,” Sister Mary Grace Walsh continued. “We are committed to ensuring that every child in the archdiocese has access to the strong foundation they need to flourish—both spiritually and academically.”

Support will be provided to assist families and educators in transitioning to other Catholic schools within the archdiocese.

For more information regarding this announcement, please visit: www.catholicschoolsny.org/school-announcements