HAGERSTOWN, MD- St. Maria Goretti Regional Catholic High School in Hagerstown, Maryland, will close its doors permanently at the end of this school year. The school had been facing financial difficulties for several years and had been receiving support from the Archdiocese of Baltimore. However, the archdiocese will no longer be able to provide assistance, and the school does not have the resources to continue operating independently. The school has formed an independent exploratory committee to explore options for the future, but no viable options have been identified. The school will continue to operate for the remainder of the current school year, and seniors will graduate as planned. However, the school will not reopen in the fall of 2024.
In a message on social media, school Principal, Dr. Amy Summers wrote:
“The primary objective of the Independent Exploratory Committee (IEC) was to assess the feasibility of St. Maria Goretti Regional Catholic High School transitioning into an independent Catholic high school, ensuring its ability to sustain crucial expenses such as salaries, benefits, utilities, and other operational costs essential for maintaining a safe and enriching learning environment. Regrettably, after extensive research and thoughtful deliberations, the IEC has concluded that SMGRCHS will not be able to operate as an independent Catholic high school for the fall of 2024. Consequently, the IEC will be disbanded, and no further meetings or discussions will be held.
I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the tireless efforts of the Independent Exploratory Committee. Their unwavering dedication to upholding Catholic secondary education in Washington County is truly commendable.
Moving forward, our focus will be on ensuring that the final year at St. Maria Goretti Regional Catholic High School remains an exceptional and memorable experience for our students, faculty, and staff. The administration at SMGRCHS is committed to supporting each individual through this transitional period.”
