Holy Rosary Catholic School saved from closure

GENESEE TOWNSHIP (WJRT) -- (05/14/09)--They waited for weeks to find out if they'd be able to return to their school in the fall. Today, Holy Rosary students heard the long anticipated announcement.

In January, the Holy Rosary community was told by the Diocese of Lansing that the school would close in June because of declining enrollment and financial problems. Parents and supporters rallied to the cause, some school debts were paid off, and pledges were made to increase enrollment.

Diocese officials relented, saying Holy Rosary could re-open in the fall if 105 students enrolled. So far, 87 have signed up, but that was enough to convince Bishop Boyea to keep the doors open.

"I think it's great," said seventh grader Rebecca Gillette.  "We're so happy right now because we want our school to stay open."

"This has been a long wait -- on pins and needles," added parent Dawn Thomason.  "I really didn't know what I would do if the school closed."

These financial problems put a big scare in the Holy Rosary family. They're going to make sure it doesn't happen again.

"It comes with a little bit of the challenge," said Bob Winford, chairman of the school improvement team.  "We have to produce. We have to do some important things and we'll do that."

"It's been four months of anticipation," said principal Ken Bachman.  "I always like to say we are a faith-filled community. I think our faith has been strengthened by the outcome of his."

In light of today's news, school officials believe as many as 20 new students will sign up for next year.

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