The Archdiocese of Philadelphia announced February 24 that West Catholic High School will remain open, along with three other archdiocesan high schools that were previously slated to close. The good news comes in the wake of the creation of the Faith in the Future Foundation, a private entity affiliated with the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and its Office of Catholic Education. The independent foundation will support and guide the system of 17 archdiocesan high schools and eventually assist the parish elementary schools, regional schools and schools of special education across the five-county Philadelphia region.
Archbishop Charles Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. cited the grassroots efforts to save these schools, the advocacy of legislators and the generosity of donors as reasons the schools are staying open. To date, more than $12 million has been secured in cash and pledges, with a goal of $15 million by May 1, 2012. Additional funding will be necessary for this endeavor and the Faith in the Future Foundation, in concert with the 17 Archdiocesan high schools, has committed to raising an additional $15 million by June 2013 as well as a $70 million endowment for all schools by June 2017.
In a statement on its website, West Catholic encourages students to reserve a place in the class of 2016 and thanks supporters. “That West Catholic High School will remain a strong presence of Catholic Education here in West Philadelphia is miracle of generosity, hard work, and prayer! This good news allows us here at West to continue our tradition of embracing each student’s individual promise,” the statement reads.