It is unlikely that you have not heard the distressing news regarding Catholic school closings recently covered by the national press. The National Catholic Educational Association reports that since 2000, 22% of all Catholic Schools have either closed or consolidated. On Staten Island alone, the New York Archdiocese has closed 5 schools and is taking dramatic steps to attempt to avoid future closings.

St. John Villa Academy is not immune to the factors behind these numbers. A declining Staten Island Catholic population, fewer religious to staff our schools and increasing costs in technology and curriculum to remain competitive are just a few of these factors. The average cost to educate a Villa student is slightly over $9000. Only 71% of the cost is covered by tuition because we try hard to make the Academy an affordable, quality education based on Christian teachings. In order for us to remain financially viable, the remaining 29% must be made up by fundraising activities, especially our Annual Appeal. Contributions to this appeal are earmarked to sustain the mission of the Academy by strengthening our operations and providing financial aid and scholarships to deserving students.

Recently we produced a video intended to help promote Villa and increase enrollment. Its theme “Believe…Achieve…Succeed!” sums up succinctly what we need to do with our Annual Appeal. If you believe in Villa, we can achieve our 2011/12 Annual Fund Campaign goal and insure that St. John Villa Academy succeeds in the year ahead. Thank you in advance for your support.