Closures, layoffs in more WNY schools

KENMORE, N.Y. (WIVB) - Shrinking school districts are becoming a growing trend around western New York. We've learned of the closings of three more schools, including two in the Lakeshore District and St. Paul's Parochial School in Kenmore.

St. Paul's Catholic School parent Rich Root said, "We're right around the corner from the school. We walked our kids to school."

But Rich Root and his boys will be taking their last walk to St. Paul's Catholic School in June.

"We told them that the school can't stay open, but we'll find a new school for them that has more students, more friends, more things to do," said Root.

Another St. Paul's Catholic School parent, Jonathan Coupal, said, "There's a lotta people who are very angry. There's a lot of emotions."

But Jonathan Coupal could see the writing on the wall, enrollment was down to just over 100 students for 10 grades, only 69 had signed up for next year, and this year alone St. Paul's Church was spending $325,000. That's more than half of church collection to keep the school running, leading the pastor Jay McGinnis to close the 111 year old school.

"Was probably the hardest decision he made in his life, but something that isn't sustainable, the reality is you have to accept where you stand and move on," said Coupal.

Within the week, parents in Lockport learned that two of their elementary schools will close, two more will close in the Lakeshore Central School district, and in Newfane, 32 school staffers will be laid off.

Buffalo State College Economics Professor Bill Ganley said, "Obviously, budget cuts will come in those areas not just this year, but next year."

Ganley expects it to get worse before it gets better. With NY State facing a $9 billion deficit, the state education funds are sure to to take more hits.

"I would say it almost is inevitable. I don't see how it can stop for the next year," said Ganley.