EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 A catholic school in South Central El Paso closed. <\/p>\n
On Wednesday, the St. Pius X Parish announced the closure of the St. Pius X Catholic School.<\/p>\n
Officials said this comes after enrollment has been declining since the pandemic. <\/p>\n
According to parish leadership, current and projected enrollment figures indicate an annual operating deficit of over $300,000.<\/p>\n
RECOMMENDED: El Paso ISD employees notified of position cuts, teachers association says<\/a><\/p>\n While the parish said it has subsidized these losses in previous years, continuing to do so would put in danger the long-term “financial stability and pastoral mission of the parish.”<\/p>\n \u201cThis decision was not made lightly. We recognize the profound effect it will have on our students, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and parish community. We grieve the loss of an institution that has been an integral part of St. Pius X for so many years,” said Pastor Rev. Miguel Angel Sanchez. \u201cCountless families have entrusted their children to St. Pius X, and the impact of our school will continue to be felt throughout our parish and community for years to come.”<\/p>\n While the school will close, parish leaders emphasized that the mission of the parish will continue, focused on “serving families, fostering faith formation, and proclaiming the Gospel.”<\/p>\n “While this chapter of our parish\u2019s history is coming to an end, our mission as a community of faith continues,” Fr. S\u00e1nchez said. “We remain committed to nurturing the spiritual growth of our children, supporting families, and accompanying those affected by this transition.”<\/p>\n