CHICAGO (March 15, 2004) – After extensive consultation and dialogue among archdiocesan officials and parish and school leadership, the Most Rev. John R. Manz, local bishop and vicar for the school, and Dr. Nicholas Wolsonovich, superintendent of Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Chicago, recommended to Cardinal Francis George, O.M.I., that St. Mark School not reopen in the fall.

Despite all best efforts by this school’s leadership during an extensive review and planning process that included eight separate meetings with representative groups of school parents the school was left with no choice but to take this action. We are simply not in a position to continue.

This has been a difficult decision for all involved, and it has not been made lightly. There are compelling reasons for this action, including insufficient enrollment next year as well as an inability to provide a sustainable budget to operate the school.
The school’s current enrollment is 161 students, reflecting a declining trend that is mirrored in the surrounding community. In the area immediate to St. Mark’s, the number of school-aged children has declined 51 percent since 1990, according to an analysis of the latest census data.

We are very grateful for the efforts of all involved and the sacrifices of school families. St. Mark School has had a nearly 100-year history in the Archdiocese of Chicago and it has been a source of tremendous blessing. It is vital that we celebrate and give thanks for the immense blessing that St. Mark has been.

Sister Betty Smigla, S.P., principal of the school, and I will continue to encourage as many families of current students to place their children in other area Catholic schools. Meanwhile, we have several more months of learning and growing this school year. We look forward to Confirmations and First Communions. We have two more report cards to go. May we know God’s blessings as we go forward from this moment.