Darien's Our Lady Of Peace School Closing

DARIEN, IL — Low enrollment and financial challenges have forced the closure of Our Lady of Peace in Darien, the Diocese of Joliet announced Friday. The decision was made during this difficult time to ensure quality Catholic education in the Diocese of Joliet now and into the future, the diocese said.

In a joint letter to the school families and parishioners of Our Lady of Peace parish, the Rev. Mark Baron said, “The closure of our school is certainly a sad moment for all of us. For many of you, the school has been an integral part of your experience at Our Lady of Peace Parish. It has played a pivotal role in either your own formation or in the formation of your children. It has also been the source of lifelong friendships and a lot of wonderful memories.”

Despite the closure, the Diocese of Joliet said it has assured parents of its commitment to providing access to quality Catholic education. Baron and the Diocese of Joliet Catholic Schools Office are assisting families in exploring registration at nearby Catholic schools, while the Diocese of Joliet has offered a $500 scholarship grant to students who transfer to those nearby schools, according to a news release.

“I am confident that Our Lady of Peace will continue to be a vibrant community of faith as we fulfill our mission of providing God’s people with spiritual and catechetical formation and serving with love and compassion all who turn to the Church in need,” Baron said. “Be assured of my prayers for all those directly affected by this decision and the entire parish.”