Diocese Approves Mater Dei Reorganization Plan

Consider the Seraphs saved.

Supporters of Mater Dei Prep in Middletown say that the Diocese of Trenton will let the school continue operations as a private parochial institution, starting next September.

Information on the Save The Seraphs web page indicates that Bishop David M. O'Connell approved the plan today. Diocesan officials had intended to close the school at the end of the term, citing a $1 million operating deficit.

A spokesperson for the Diocese confirmed the agreement via e-mail.

Mater Dei would reorganize as a 501 (c)(3) non-profit group, separate from Saint Mary's Parish, with an independent Board of Trustees, with ecclesiastical guidance from the Diocese. Saint Mary's School continues under Parish supervision.

The Seraph's Fund, which garnered enough pledges to close the budget gap, converts to an endowment fund for the school. Organizers say they will continue reaching out to alumni to grow the endowment in order to provide scholarship money and pay for capital improvements.

Tonight, a fundraiser at the Count Basie Theater in Red Bank features Brian Kirk and The Jirks and The Magic Taxis. An enrollment open house takes place on site May 19, and the weekend of May 29 features an alumni open house