Saint Teresa's School Set to Close in Hutchinson

January 15, 2010

By Megan Strader

(HUTCHINSON, Kan.)

Before the Diocese even had a chance to make the official announcement, parents, teachers and students gathered in front of Saint Teresa's school wanting answers.

"I think we were pretty much told that this is what's going to happen and that the kids will be going to Holy Cross next year," explained Sylvia Diaz.

"The concern is what happens to the kids. It's not about us, it's not about the parents, it's not about the teachers, it's about our kids. Where do our kids go? What happens to them?" Said Adria Borchert.

She has double the reason to be concerned. Not only do her children go to Saint Teresa's, she teaches at the school. "Must be part of God's plan but its not making much sense to us right now."

The Superintendent of Catholic Schools did his best to explain what happens next. As of July first, Saint Teresa's will consolidate with Holy Cross, forming one catholic elementary school.

This, despite parish members raising more than the amount of money leaders originally said would keep the school open.

Bob Voboril, Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Wichita tells Eyewitness News, "In the long run, and the bishop kept coming back to this, can you do that again next year? Can you do it again the years after? And history says it doesn't work that way."

The move will also double class sizes to more than 20 per room, if families choose to keep their kids in the Catholic school system.

Former student Linda Garcia said, "It was fewer kids and you got taught well and it's hard."

Borchert adds, "Look at their faces. What do we tell them on Tuesday when they find out?"

With the future of the school decided, it's now up to the families to decide what's best for their kids.

Teachers at Saint Teresa's will be considered first for new positions at Holy Cross, created by the consolidation.

Also, people who donated money to keep the school open can contact the parish if they would like that money back.

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