Dear Parents and Friends of Immaculate Heart of Mary School
In moments of trial and reflection, we often find ourselves at crossroads that test our resilience, our values, and our commitment to the missions we hold dear. Today, I approach you with a heavy heart, following considerable reflection and several meetings with the Diocese of Paterson to explore possible avenues and prayer to seek your support for a decision that weighs profoundly on our community. It is with a heavy heart that I share that Immaculate Heart of Mary School will not open in the fall.
Our Unsustainable Circumstances
This decision does not come lightly. It stems from deep consideration of our unsustainable circumstances. Despite exhaustive efforts to rejuvenate and maintain our school—including initiatives aimed at improving educational offerings and increasing community engagement—the challenges we encounter remain formidable.
Enrollment and Economic Challenges
Over recent years, we have witnessed a substantial enrollment decrease, from 152 students in the 2023-2024 academic year to just 114 pre-registered and 135 students projected for the next year. This reduction, paired with the economic difficulties our families face, has substantially hindered tuition affordability. Additionally, the proximity of excellent, tuition-free public schools significantly detracts from our value proposition, making it increasingly difficult to justify the financial burden associated with private education. Parochial schools are meant to be a ministry of a parish and supported by parishioners. However, it’s become challenging to carry the school's financial responsibility while also maintaining the financial responsibilities of the parish overall.
Financial Ramifications
The financial ramifications of these challenges are severe. Our parish can no longer shoulder the financial burden without compromising our wider mission. This year alone, despite a $224,000 subsidy from IHM Parish, we face critical issues that threaten our parish operation. The total expected deficit for the year is projected at $375,000 (). Moreover, our goal to raise $10,000 monthly in fundraising has fallen short; nine months into the school year, we have raised approximately $70,000, leaving a shortfall of $20,000.
Given these distressing financial realities and the negative impact on our ability to fund essential services like utilities, salaries, and benefits, it is clear that continuing operation into the next academic year is untenable.
Moving Forward
As we navigate this difficult decision, our focus remains on the well-being of our students, staff, and the broader community. We are committed to supporting our students in finding new educational environments where they can continue to thrive and grow. For our staff, we will explore all possible avenues to ensure a smooth transition, recognizing their dedication and contribution to our school. There are no solidified plans for how the school building will be used but I will prayerfully consider options with the IHM financial committee and welcome your thoughts.
This decision marks the end of an era for Immaculate Heart of Mary School, but it also provides an opportunity for reflection on the values that bind our community together. In these trying times, let us remember the strength, resilience, and faith that have always defined us.
Gratitude and Hope
I know this decision marks the end of an era for Immaculate Heart of Mary School, which has been part of the parish since 1959. It also provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the values that bind our community together.  We express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been a part of Immaculate Heart of Mary School's story. Your faith, love, and dedication have been the school's lifeblood. As we step into the future, let us carry with us the joy, the learning, and the community spirit that defined our time together.
This is not an end, but a transformation. Together, let's approach this change with hope, guided by our faith and the knowledge that God's plans for us are plans of hope and prosperity. As we journey forward, may we remain united in spirit, committed to living out our mission in new and meaningful ways, and always open to the endless possibilities that lie ahead. 
Together, we forge ahead into a future bright with promise, carrying the legacy of Immaculate Heart of Mary School in our hearts and actions.
 
With prayers,
Fr. Mateusz Jasniewicz, Ed, S., M.P.A.