QUINCY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

SACRED HEART SCHOOL -- ST. ANN SCHOOL -- ST. MARY SCHOOL

January 22, 2010

Dear Parishioner,

Catholic schools in Quincy are dynamic and energetic educational centers of excellence. The leadership of Sacred Heart, St. Ann and St. Mary Elementary Schools have been working together to plan for an even better quality education for our students.

Like Catholic pastors and educators across the Archdiocese and our nation, we are working to address the challenges of declining enrollments, changing demographics, struggling economies, and resulting financial constraints. In coordination with the Catholic Schools Office of the Archdiocese, we have developed a plan to build a strong, long-term Catholic educational community for our current and future generations of students.

Earlier this week we announced to our schools, teachers and staff that we have decided to form Quincy Catholic Academy by merging Sacred Heart, St. Ann and St. Mary Elementary Schools. Quincy Catholic Academy will bring together the best of the three current elementary schools to serve children from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. We are positioning our new Catholic academy to be successful in fulfilling the mission and ministry of Catholic education. Quincy Catholic Academy will open at the present Sacred Heart location in September 2010.

As Pastors of Parishes with Catholic Schools in Quincy, we share a strong belief that part of what makes our faith community so exceptional is a shared commitment to Catholic education. Along with our parishioners, we support Cardinal Sean P. O'Malley's belief that Catholic education is one of the most important ministries in the Catholic Church. Throughout its history, Catholic schools have educated thousands of students who have gone on to higher education, successful careers, raised families and been active members of the Catholic community. Largely because of your support, Quincy is blessed with an incredible spirit and commitment to Catholic education. Our goal is to provide a positive experience and smooth transition for our students, families, teachers, and staff. With your support and prayers, we will continue to serve your children and future generations. Please be assured of our prayers for you and your loved ones in this New Year.

Sincerely,

Rev. David P. Callahan, Pastor, St. Mary Parish
Rev. John W. O'Brien, Pastor, Sacred Heart Parish
Rev. John J. Ronaghan Pastor, St. Ann Parish