Stamford School To Close, 'Will Not Reopen' For Next School Year

STAMFORD, CT — The Diocese of Bridgeport announced this week that Trinity Catholic High School will close at the end of the academic year, ending a legacy of over 60 years that began in 1957 when the school was first established. In a letter posted to the Diocese's website Thursday, Bishop Frank Caggiano said the school, located on Newfield Avenue in Stamford, would "not reopen its doors for the 2020-21 academic year."

In the letter, Caggiano expressed his "deep personal sadness" regarding the decision, which he said came after heavy consultation with diocesan and school leadership, as well as the "heroic efforts" of many to keep the school open.

"To have to make this decision was difficult and a great sorrow for me," Caggiano said in the letter.

Caggiano cited low enrollment numbers as one of the major factors that contributed to the decision, as the school's total enrollment for next year is projected to be around just 100 students.

"This is a number that is simply unsustainable if we wish to maintain a full service, vibrant and formative high school experience for our students," Caggiano said.

According to Caggiano, this year's budget deficit is projected to be $1,300,000, which the Diocese will cover, however such a low projected student population for next year "suggests a deficit in excess of $2,300,000."

"This is a sum too great for the Diocese to support," Caggiano said, "and would extend it beyond what is fiscally responsible."

Caggiano also expressed concerns that such a small student population would not allow the school to provide the extra-curriculum and athletic programs students and families desire.

"In my judgment, it is in the best interests of our students and faculty that we assist them, to the best of our ability, to find another school of their choice," Caggiano said, "where they can continue their academic and professional lives."

As they prepare to transition students out of Trinity, the school will host representatives from the Diocese's other Catholic high schools on Wednesday, March 4, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., during which they will provide information regarding registration and transportation.

Families who have already registered for the next academic year will have their registration fees refunded in full, Caggiano said.

In the closing of his letter, Caggiano thanked Trinity's administration, faculty, staff and board members for the "immense work" and "personal sacrifice" they put forth to stabilize and grow the school.

"Even though this news is deeply saddening," Caggiano said, "I know that the administration, staff and faculty are committed to providing the best possible education and Catholic formation to the young people entrusted to our care in the remaining months of this academic year."