More students attending Youngstown Diocese schools

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

Enrollment has increased 3.1 percent this year at elementary schools in the Diocese of Youngstown, reversing the recent trend of decline.

Five of the six counties’ kindergarten through eighth-grade schools reported increases:

Mahoning, up 3.5 percent.

Trumbull, up 4.1 percent.

Ashtabula, up 4.2 percent

Stark, up 3.6 percent .

Portage, up 1.6 percent.

Only Columbiana County Catholic schools saw less enrollment, with 13 fewer students than last school year.

Overall, K-8 enrollment increased by 143 students, from 4,576 to 4,719.

“We are excited to see that so many parents have decided that a Catholic education is the right choice for their children,” said Bishop George Murry, bishop of Youngstown.

“Catholic schools provide the long-term benefits of a high-quality, faith-based education in a safe, loving, family centered environment. Families and communities can count on Catholic schools to instill in students the faith, knowledge, morals and discipline that will enable them to fulfill their future roles as committed citizens, productive employees and effective leaders.”