Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Wednesday, December 25, 2024 74° Today's Paper


Top News

Saint Francis School in Manoa will close entirely at end of academic year

1/2
Swipe or click to see more
Video by Cindy Ellen Russell / crussell@staradvertiser.com
Saint Francis School will close entirely at the end of the academic year, officials announced Thursday.
2/2
Swipe or click to see more

JAMM AQUINO / Jan. 7, 2019

Saint Francis School in Manoa plans to close entirely at the end of this academic year, it was announced today.

Saint Francis School, founded in 1924, will shut down entirely at the end of the academic year, due to financial woes, officials announced today.

“This is very sad for all of us and it has been the most heart-wrenching weeks and months of planning,” said Sister Barbara Jean Donovan, general minister of the Sisters of Saint Francis of the Neumann Communities, of Syracuse, N.Y., which sponsors the school. “Simply put, there is not enough money to continue.”

The administration had announced Jan. 7 that the middle and upper school would cease operations in May, and that the elementary division might also close if enrollment targets were not met.

Donovan announced the decision to close the elementary school at a meeting this afternoon of staff, parents, alumni and others at the Manoa campus that was livestreamed to the school community.

“Based on the enrollment that we have received so far, it’s apparent that the elementary school cannot be viable next year,” Donovan said in a statement. “And we believe that it is important to make this announcement early so that families have the opportunity to plan for the future.”

Donovan said that the Sisters have been subsidizing the school for the last several years and can no longer afford to do so. The school has 442 students in preschool through 12th grade.

Originally a girls’ school, Saint Francis went coed in 2006. It is known for offering an affordable Catholic education, a family-style atmosphere and a strong sports program.

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines. Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.