The BOM of St. Louis National School in Rathkenny has informed the school’s Patron, Bishop Thomas Deenihan, and the Department of Education and Youth (DoEY) of its decision and has requested consent to formally close the school.
In a statement, the BOM expressed gratitude to staff, parents, and the local community for their efforts to promote the school and increase enrolment over the years.
“It is important to acknowledge the rich history of St Louis NS, which stretches back over 120 years,” the statement said.
“The school has made an enormous contribution to the educational, religious, sporting and cultural tapestry of the community it serves.”
Plans are underway to organise an event in the coming months to celebrate the school’s legacy.
The board also outlined plans for the orderly closure, including arrangements for teaching and non-teaching staff, the collation of documents, and the creation of a stock inventory of school resources. Furniture and equipment may be redistributed to benefit children in neighbouring schools.
The closure reflects a broader national trend of declining primary school enrolments. According to Minister Norma Foley, primary pupil numbers peaked at 567,772 in 2018, falling to 558,143 in 2022, with projections suggesting 533,000 pupils in 2026 and 499,000 by 2030.
“The sharp decline in enrolment in St. Louis NS, Rathkenny is testament to this decline, which is particularly impactful on small rural parish communities, such as ours,” the BOM said.
Before the closure announcement, the local community launched a petition to save the school, which has already gathered nearly 350 signatures. The petition highlights the school’s recent renovations, including an all-weather soccer pitch, a sensory room, and a new extension.
Supporters described St. Louis NS as “more than just a place of education” but also as a sanctuary for children with additional needs, including those with autism.
A parent who helped launch the petition said: “To see this school closing would be a travesty and a disgrace. Families are currently fighting for school placements within close proximity to Rathkenny and the Department of Education now needs to look into this facility further and provide the necessary supports in place.
“It’s a facility that could also link in to other local larger schools in neighbouring areas or also a facility to provide young adults with additional needs and supports as a day care facility, instead of buses and transport needed to transport people to towns causing even more congestion on our roads.”
The petition urged decision-makers to explore all options to keep the school open, stating: “Children thrive in an environment that caters for their needs, and the benefits of specialized schooling are vital to getting children the support they need early in life.
“Investment should be channelled into enhancing the school’s offerings, ensuring children have a school placement.”
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.