Saving Catholic school enrollment

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - A steady decline in Catholic school enrollment is prompting the Archdiocese to call for reform.

Leaders are mapping out a new system that will enhance the viability and affordability of a Catholic school education.

During a presentation at Bishop Leibold School in Dayton Tuesday, Superintendent Dr. Jim Rigg broke down how Catholic schools throughout southwest Ohio plan to survive despite demographic, social and financial challenges. The findings come after two years of extensive research.

"We see Catholic schools that are available, accessible and affordable for all families who wish to come regardless of their economic or demographic background," said Dr. Jim Rigg, Superintendent.

Rigg says funds are down due to a steady decline in enrollment.

There are 13,000 fewer students now than there were 10 years ago and 22 schools have closed or consolidated during that time.

The Archdiocese solution? Market Better.

"Tell our story better. Make people aware that the investment is worth the sacrifice. I think that's the key. It's faith based education. Catholic Christian education and if you look at your child's education, you want some values in there. We've got that," said Fr. Jim Manning, President, Alter High School.

And make a Catholic education more affordable.

"Tuition has become a big factor. We try to keep our cost as low as possible and keep it available to everyone but school business is expensive," said Paul Beyerle, Principal, Bishop Leibold School.

Beyerle says the pre-k through 8 school has lost 128 students over the past six years and that adds up at nearly $3,000 per student per year.

Beyerle says he's excited for the new energy and guidance to sell the Catholic identity and academic excellence.

"We want to get the word out. spread the gospel if you will. Preach the good news. we want to make Catholic education available for any student who wants a Catholic education. Any family."

Superintendent Rigg says the Archdiocese is launching its first ever needs based financial aid source.

$3.5 million in internal funds have already been reallocated for the program that will launch in the next few years.

"It will be directed at families who have legitimate challenges in affording the costs of tuition. It will co-exist with other funds throughout the Archdiocese such as the Catholic Inner-city Fund in Cincinnati as we continue to provide a Catholic education for all who chose to come," said Rigg.

There will be two public forums in the following days for parents of current and future students.

For more information head to Carroll High School in Dayton on August 16 at 6 pm or Lehman Catholic High School in Sidney on August 21 at 6:30 pm.