Philadelphia Archdiocese High Schools Cancel Classes for Wednesday

Catholic High Schools operated by the Catholic Archdiocese of Philadelphia have cancelled classes starting tomorrow and will remain shut down for the duration of a teacher strike that began last week, according to the Archdiocese. 

The Archdiocese says the schools, including Archbishop Carroll in Radnor Township will remain closed until a contract settlement is reached.

Speaking to reporters via teleconference at noon today, the superintendent and the chief negotiator the Archdiocese expressed frustration over the negotiations but both remained hopeful that a contract settlement could be reached as soon as Tuesday evening.

The Archdiocese officials said there are still "four or five significant issues" to be resolved..but we are hopeful they can be resolved."

Parents should note that local parish schools, including  in Berwyn, and St. Nortbert in Paoli are not affected by the strike and will be in session tomorrow. , which is a private catholic school, not operated by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is also not affected.

The Archdiocese has posted a letter to parents on its website's strike update page which reads:

We regret to inform you that our high schools will be closed beginning Wednesday, September 14, 2011, until a settlement is reached amending the current teacher contract and our teachers return to the classroom. We have accomplished for our students all of the beginning tasks of this new school year.

We are not able to bring the entire school population back into the building with reduced staffs since this would compromise the safety of the school and our students. There has been some progress in the negotiations over these past few days so we are hopeful for the future. All school days missed beginning with September 14, 2011 will be made up when the school year resumes. An adjusted calendar will be sent to you in the days ahead.

Please visit our website at www.catholicschools-phl.org and click on High School Teacher Contract Negotiations Update. Pertinent information will be posted there as we proceed through these next few days. Your child’s school website will keep you informed as to the information you need concerning local school announcements.

Thank you for your support of Catholic Education as we join you in the faith and academic formation of your child.