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Holy rosary school in fairmont city closes at end of this school year

Story and photos by LIZ QUIRIN
Messenger editor

At the end of the day on May 21, Holy Rosary School in Fairmont City closed its doors for the last time as a Catholic school.

After an all-school liturgy attended by students, their families and a number of parishioners and former graduates of Holy Rosary, awards were distributed with teachers and staff recognized for their dedication and service.

Pastor, Father David Wilke, said during the liturgy: “During the sad moment of closing Holy Rosary School, we turn to our mother, Mary.”

Shirley Kurre, a teacher and principal for 41 years, had planned to retire this year and spoke lovingly of present and former pastors, teachers, staff and students.

A special retirement reception will be held for Kurre from 1-4 p.m. May 31 in the gymnasium at the parish.
Kurre remembered beginning her career at Holy Rosary “with four rooms and no screens.”
She remembered the parish pastors she met and worked with over the years.
“Each had a special gift and was a special blessing for us,” she said.
In thanking the school’s teachers, she said they are “precious gifts.”

The school’s enrollment dropped precipitously when Collinsville, Ill., District 10 opened to Fairmont City residents, along with an end to city funding of the school and the overall economy, Kurre said.

While plans to close the school because of a lack of enrollment remain the decision of Bishop Edward K. Braxton, negotiations are ongoing with the Collinsville district for possible purchase of the buildings.

At this point, Tom Posnanski, diocesan director of education, is acting as liaison for the parish with the Collinsville district.

While Collinsville reviews a list of needs from the parish, the diocese and the district are having the buildings appraised, Posnanski said. Those “buildings” include the school, the convent and a parking lot, Posnanski said.
“Everything needs to be resolved soon,” he added. “The parish must determine if it is in their best interest to move ahead.”

At the end of the final liturgy, Kurre said: “When I see you in church, that’s what it’s all about,” sharing at the Lord’s table.

One former student said: “This is a sad day” to see the school closing.
“It has been a special, small community,” a former teacher said.

Ursuline Sister Dorothy Helbling remembered the school in its earliest days.
Sister Helbling represented the Ursulines at the liturgy and participated in the liturgy.
Sister Jane Gegg, ASC, at one time a teacher at the school participated in the liturgy with her music along with Sister Jan Renz, ASC regional leader.

“Our school was unique,” Kurre said because teachers and staff worked closely with families and students to ensure success.