In a letter to parents released today, Father Thomas Barcellona, pastor
of Christ the Redeemer Church, Atco, announced that Assumption School will close at the end of this school year.
In the letter, Father Barcellona noted that, despite the best efforts of parents and staff, the school did not meet the 150-student enrollment goal for 2013-14 established last year to assure Assumption’s survival.
“Despite valiant efforts, the demographics and financial realities have created the situation which makes it impossible to continue,” Father Barcellona wrote. He noted that while rumors circulated that the goal had been met, the actual number fell short. More than 20 students in the registration were behind in their current tuition payments, “making their registration for the 2013-14 school year not assured,” the letter stated.
Sister Helene Cook, IHM, Assumption principal, will provide information to parents who want to enroll their children in other Catholic schools. Assumption students will be eligible for a $1,000 voucher from Christ the Redeemer Parish if they enroll in other Catholic schools.
The Office of Catholic Schools of the Diocese of Camden will work with Assumption teachers to assist them in securing employment at other Catholic schools in the Diocese of Camden.