The Diocese of Brooklyn on Wednesday announced that seven Catholic elementary schools will close at the conclusion of the 2025–2026 academic year, including one in Brooklyn.
Our Lady of Trust Catholic Academy in Canarsie was one of the schools the Diocese chose to close. Enrollment in the school in 2025 fell to 115 students, from 202 students in 2019, according to the Diocese. There were six Queens-based schools that were also closing, a result of ongoing financial challenges and sustained declines in student enrollment, the Diocese said in a statement.
“This is an extraordinarily difficult moment for our school communities,” said Deacon Kevin McCormack, Superintendent of Schools. “These schools have served generations of families with dedication and faith. The decision to close them was made only after careful consideration and with great sorrow.”
The decision follows an extensive review process that included analysis of enrollment trends, operating costs, capital repair needs, and long-term sustainability, considering rising costs of insurance and pension obligations, the Diocese said.
Families will receive assistance with placement in other Catholic schools within the Diocese, and resources will be made available to faculty and staff affected by the closures.
“Our responsibility is both pastoral and practical,” McCormack added. “We will walk with our families and employees through this process, while continuing to strengthen Catholic education throughout Brooklyn and Queens.”
All activities and events will continue as planned through the end of this school year.
For more information about the transition, click here.
