Priest sex abuse scandal leaves parochial school enrollment unharmed

PORTLAND – Despite the scandal involving almost daily reports of sexual abuse allegations against Roman Catholic priests, local parochial school educators say enrollment for next fall seems unaffected.

Holy Cross School in South Portland and St. James School in Biddeford both have a waiting list for families hoping to enroll their children.

A Catholic education, it seems, is in as much demand as ever.

“I don’t think it’s having any effect, except that people are feeling bad,” said Holy Cross principal Stephen Harnois.

In Bangor, pre-enrollment at All Saints School is slightly below current levels but is expected to pick up by the start of the new school year, said Principal Thomas Lynch.

The current enrollment tops off at 260 students, with pre-enrollment for next year at 230 so far, Lynch said.

He said that no students have left the school because of the sex abuse allegations.

He attributed the low early numbers to a less than vibrant economy and to people moving away, but also noted that the combined school hasn’t fully found its identity since the St. John and St. Mary parish schools merged two years ago.

Parochial schools, which enjoy a reputation for strong academic and moral instruction, have not seen their public image tarnished.

But Catholic educators seem aware that the scandal still has the potential to affect them.

Earlier this week, the National Catholic Education Association issued a statement expressing “grave concern and profound sorrow” for victims of sex abuse by priests.

“Our schools have been built on a strong foundation that includes a safe and supportive environment, strong academic standards and a faith-based curriculum,” the statement says. “At this difficult time, it is important to note that our foundation is not shaken.”