The Diocese of Allentown today completed the purchase of a new building to house the growing Saint Jerome Regional School in Tamaqua, an example of the significant investment the Diocese is making in Catholic education in Schuylkill and Carbon counties.
After nearly 100 years at its current location at 200 West Broad Street, Tamaqua, Saint Jerome Regional School will open this fall in its new home, the former Rush Township Elementary School at 50 Meadow Avenue, Tamaqua.
“Enrollment for the new year is already up by 19 percent,” said Amy Hannis-Miskar, principal. “This new location allows our school even more space to grow.” Currently there are 260 students enrolled in grades Pre-K through 8, up from enrollment of 218 when school ended in June.
“Catholic education is a top priority for the Diocese of Allentown,” said Bishop Alfred Schlert. “We are pleased to be able to make this investment in the continued strengthening of our education programs for the future of Carbon and Schuylkill counties.”
The new facility gives Saint Jerome more classrooms, a cafeteria/gymnasium, a spacious parking lot, and a playground and athletic fields on 11 acres, Hannis-Miskar said. In addition, the school will now be all under one roof, rather than in multiple buildings.
“It’s sad to leave our former location, which was our home for almost 100 years. There are a lot of great memories there,” Hannis-Miskar said. “At our school, we live fearlessly through faith. We strive to instill family values while teaching superior academics. Saint Jerome Regional School teaches for life to create a community of conviction, respect and excellence.”
She noted that Saint Jerome offers a safe learning environment, experienced teachers and special programs such as art, music, technology, physical education and many extra-curricular activities.
The Diocese purchased the 35,000-square-foot facility from the Tamaqua Area School District for $1.2 million.
The first day of school will be August 27. A Meet the Teacher Event will be held from noon to 7 PM on August 23.
