February 28, 2020

Dear Parents, Students, Faculty, Staff, Neighbors and Friends,

Today’s news regarding the Diocese of Buffalo’s court petition to file for Chapter 11 comes as no surprise.  As it is understood, this decision allows the Diocese time to address its financial crisis and time to reorganize effectively to serve the Church’s mission.

There is no direct impact upon the operations of Archbishop Walsh Academy and Southern Tier Catholic School.  As has been reported in the news, the Walsh Foundation has agreed to purchase the school building and property from the Diocese.  Attorneys are working their way through final steps of this process.

While the schools continue to receive canonical direction from the Diocese, only Southern Tier Catholic School receives a Diocesan subsidy. Archbishop Walsh has been independent from the Diocese for quite some time and the purchase of the school building and property accentuates this independence. We control our own destiny.

Please contact me at [email protected] if you would like any clarification.  Your continued support is very much appreciated.

Thank you.

Pax et Bonum,

Thomas J. Manko

School President and Principal