Philadelphia, Pa., Jul 15, 2013 / 23:04 pm
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia on Monday signed an agreement transferring ownership of 14 former parish elementary schools to an independent non-profit school network that will operate them as Catholic schools.
Brian McElwee, chairman of Independence Mission Schools, said July 15 that the initiative was intended "to preserve the unique value of Catholic schools – an academically excellent, cost-effective, values-based education."
"This model is one that we believe will set the standard for urban Catholic education nationwide and we are proud that Philadelphia is where it begins," added Al Cavalli, the school network's president.
Archbishop Charles J. Chaput signed the agreement with Independence Mission Schools on July 15 at St. Gabriel School in Philadelphia.