Rumor denied – Holy Trinity to stay open

Holy Trinity Catholic School

By RICK GREEN, LACONIA DAILY SUN

LACONIA — Holy Trinity Catholic School is not closing.

That's the message those associated with the school want to get out amid community uncertainty about its future. The Diocese of Manchester has authorized St. Andre Bessette Parish to sell St. Joseph Church, the adjacent rectory and the building that houses the school.

Father Marc Drouin of the parish said there are two possibilities for the school. It could remain in its present location with upgrades, or it could be given a new home at an improved building on the campus of Sacred Heart Church.

“The same quality education will be given in either location,” Drouin said. “The diocese will determine what will be the best location, but Holy Trinity School is not closing,” Drouin said.

He said he hopes for a decision soon.

Mary Jane Cooney, principal of the school, said Monday she expects word about the school's ultimate location later this week from Bishop Peter Anthony Libasci.

She also said the diocese is working to boost enrollment.

“Nationwide, there have been enrollment decreases, but the Diocese of Manchester has a full-time development person, who works on new marketing strategies,” Cooney said. “Catholic education is affordable and is a viable situation.”

The school, which educates children from pre-kindergarten to eighth grade, has 103 students. It has seen enrollment declines, but she did not have earlier enrollment numbers.

In an earlier Facebook post, she expressed frustration about rumors circulating about the school.

“With rumors of our school closing and scaring off prospective students, and despite low enrollment, Holy Trinity School will not be closing!” she said in the post.

“Our bishop is invested in Catholic education and has made it a priority. It is his goal, as well as mine, to be around for years to come. When doing God's will, there will always be obstacles and challenges in our way...but we are not going anywhere!!! Spread the word!!!”

According to The National Catholic Education Association, U.S. Catholic school enrollment reached its peak during the early 1960s when there were more than 5.2 million students. Current enrollment is 1.8 million students.

Meanwhile, plans continue to eventually market St. Joseph Church, 30 Church St., with deed restrictions prohibiting the buyer, or subsequent owners from putting the property to uses the diocese deems inappropriate. If it can't sell the property, it could ultimately be demolished.

Members of the congregation and community have expressed wishes that the neo-Gothic building, constructed in 1929, can be saved, given its historic and cultural significance.