The Archdiocese of St. Louis has announced the permanent closure of three elementary schools.

Most Holy Trinity School in St. Louis; Christ, Light of the Nations School in north St. Louis County; and St. Joseph School in Manchester will close at the end of the 2019-20 school year. The decision was made after conducting an analysis of the financial feasibility of the three schools following the impact of the COVID-19 health pandemic.

While the situation at each school is unique, all three have received financial support from the archdiocese and its parishes, which have been impacted by the suspension of public Mass and the loss of offertory and other contributions due to the pandemic.

A statement from the Archdiocese of St. Louis noted that Catholic elementary schools represent much more than school buildings. Each is a community of families and organizational partners who are fully invested in the impact of a Catholic education. The schools have already changed the educational trajectory of thousands of students and alumni. The archdiocese, together with community partners, added that it is fully committed to supporting all families and students as they continue their educational journeys.

Parish leaders of affected institutions, in partnership with archdiocesan leadership, are reaching out to families, staff and faculties with specifics regarding the support they will receive in making transitions to other faith-based schools within the archdiocese.

The archdiocese said it keeps all of those impacted by these difficult circumstances in prayer, and will continue to do everything possible to answer questions, address concerns and provide support for those who need it. More information about Catholic education and scholarship opportunities can be found at archstlcatholicschools.org.